The World Campus Alumni Ambassador program is a volunteer program for graduates of Penn State World Campus. Ambassadors are assigned prospective students to contact each week—and through this connection, prospective students have the opportunity to gain a student’s perspective and ask specific academic program-related questions.
Over the next week or two, we will be spotlighting several of our current Alumni Ambassadors. Today, we’re featuring Valerie Worth.
Valerie started out as an on-campus student at Penn State years ago, but withdrew in 1994 and moved to Alabama with the hopes of someday finishing her degree. Two years later, she moved to Texas and began her career in the homebuilding field. She worked her way up to Regional Sales and Marketing Director, until the market crashed in 2008. She soon found herself unemployed, but this prompted her to consider finishing her degree. “I was very excited when I found out about the World Campus, as it provided me with a way to receive my Penn State diploma. One check on the bucket list.”
For Valerie, there was never of question of whether she would finish her degree at Penn State—it was just a matter of when and how. “My sister graduated from State College and my stepfather taught there. We are definitely a Penn State proud family. When I heard about the World Campus, so many opportunities opened up for me and I could not wait to tell everyone. “
So it makes sense that Valerie welcomed the opportunity to help other prospective World Campus students. “Once I finished my degree, my adviser mentioned the Ambassador program and I felt that it was an opportunity to tell others that they can achieve their educational goals, from a well-known university in the comfort of their home. Everyone needs to know that!! I am proud to be part of such a great university.”
Valerie says the Ambassadors get as much out of the program as the students they mentor. “I get very excited when I get a return call/email from a prospect. I have had several tell me that they have decided to enroll and started the process. That is a very rewarding feeling … helping someone grow.”
She has two quick pieces of advice for new or prospective World Campus students. “One thing that I stress is that even though you’re taking classes in your home, your course instructor is just a phone call or email away. You are not alone trying to figure things out. Whenever I needed anyone I always received a quick response – from classmates, technical support or my professor. Secondly, you don’t have to be a computer genius to work the ANGEL program. It is very simple and user friendly!”
Become an Alumni Ambassador!
We’re always seeking people to serve as Alumni Ambassadors. It doesn’t take a lot of time, and it’s a great way to support fellow students who would really appreciate your help. If you are a World Campus graduate interested in helping new/prospective students, we’d love to hear from you! Just complete this short form and we will be in touch with you with more information.
