IDS Ambassadors Program

INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT STUDIES (IDS) AMBASSADORS PROGRAM

We are looking for outstanding upper year International Development Studies students to act as representatives of the IDS program. IDS Ambassadors will represent the IDS program at events such as Orientation Day, the Hopper Lecture, Fall Open House, Spring Open House, Future Gryphon Day, and various online events.

What are the benefits of being an IDS Ambassador?

IDS Ambassadors will receive a $100 honorarium at the end of the academic year. In addition, they will receive Professional and Career Development Record (PCDR) recognition on their transcript.

Joining the team is also a chance for you to strengthen your CV. Skills you’ll develop include communication, teamwork, event planning, and leadership skills, which are relevant for many employment opportunities after graduation. In addition, your contributions will have a lasting impact on the Institute, as you share knowledge about the program's offerings, and support current and incoming students. 

What does the IDS Ambassador position entail?  

During the 2026/27 academic term, ambassadors will attend an onboarding meeting in August, then participate in a College of Social and Applied Human Sciences (CSAHS) orientation in October. The core responsibility of the IDS Ambassadors is to represent the IDS Program at recruitment events as well as provide logistical assistance at major GIDS events such as the Hopper Lecture:

Each ambassador will act as a representative at ~2-3 of the following events:

1.     Orientation week, Meeting for Majors — Tues. Sept 8, 2026, 12:30-1:30pm  

2.     U of G Fall Open House -- Sunday October 25, 2026, morning or afternoon shift  

3.     Hopper lecture — Tuesday, October 27, 2026, 3-7pm

4.     March Open House — Sunday, March 14, 2027, morning or afternoon shift

5.     Future Gryphons Day — Spring 2076 (date TBC)

6.     Other online events — Dates in fall and spring TBC 

How can students apply for a position?

The deadline to apply is Mon, Aug 17, 11:59pm. Please email your CV and a paragraph on why you’re interested in becoming an IDS Ambassador to Professor Ho at carmen.ho@uoguelph.ca. Selected candidates will be contacted by Fri, Aug 21, 11:59pm. We look forward to having you join the team!