The Odum School of Ecology’s Student Ambassador Program launched in fall 2022. Student Ambassadors are undergraduate ecology majors who help host events—like our weekly ‘Waffle Wednesday’ and graduation receptions—that build a sense of community. They assist with campus visits, both meeting with prospective students and families and facilitating the opportunity for prospective students to shadow an undergraduate ecology course. They also contribute content through the Odum School’s social media channels, providing insight into the student experience.

Student Ambassadors are chosen by a committee of faculty and staff, based on their academic achievements, leadership potential and commitment to serving the Odum community. They attend monthly workshops to brainstorm ideas for community involvement, plan content for social media and explore topics like best practices for communications.

Apply to the Student Ambassador Program

Applications for the 2024-2025 cohort of Student Ambassadors will open in spring 2024.

Faculty mentor: Dr. Allison Injaian, lecturer and academic coordinator.

students pose in front of ecology sign
Odum School of Ecology’s inaugural Student Ambassadors included (L-R) Paige Robinson, Skye Remko, Isaac Wood, Ethan Hackmeyer, Sam Dilley, and Caroline Anscombe. Not pictured: Margaret Xiao. Photo by Allison Injaian.

Meet the 2023 Student Ambassadors

Cailyn Bowser, BS ’24

“I became interested in ecology through spending lots of time outdoors as a kid and wanting to learn more about the natural systems around me. As an ecology B.S. major and English minor, I am interested in using my passion for writing to work in marine conservation. Being an Odum Ambassador allows me to give back to the welcoming Odum community I myself experienced, and show prospective students everything it has to offer!”

Sam Dilley, AB ’25

“As an A.B. ecology and A.B. economics double major with a certificate in sustainability, I am interested in using economics to find the sustainable intersection between human and environmental interests. In the future, I hope to pursue a graduate degree in environmental management and eventually work in sustainability consulting! Through being a Student Ambassador, I hope to show the interdisciplinary nature of ecology and connect more with the supportive community I’ve found at Odum.”

Ryan Donovan, AB ’26

“I am an Ecology and Economics double major, with the hopes to have a career that combines both fields and shows people they are not mutually exclusive. My interest in ecology began as a kid catching tadpoles and lightning bugs in my backyard. I am excited to serve as an ambassador so I can help people who also love ecology find their community at Odum and UGA at large!”

Riley Forrestall, BS ’25

“I’m a third-year pursuing a B.S. in ecology with minors in entomology, plant biology, and Portuguese. I am interested in community ecology and evolutionary ecology, with a focus on pollination systems. In the future, I hope to continue my education and further research plant-pollinator coevolution. I’m an ambassador because I love the community here at Odum and want to make sure new students have the opportunity to be a part of it!”

Luke Krohn, AB ’26

“I am an A.B. ecology major working towards a career that combines my ecological knowledge and environmental policy. Specifically, I would like to show the importance of ecological research, specifically how it informs environmentally-focused laws. As an ambassador, I hope to connect with current and prospective students to increase awareness about Odum’s ecology program.”

Paige Robinson, AB ’25

“As an A.B. ecology major working toward certificates in sustainability and GIS, I’m interested in sustainable development and environmental consulting, and in the future I hope to work on sustainable urban development in cities. My interest in ecology started as a child from growing up outdoors and seeing how much people influence the environment both positively and negatively. As an Odum Student Ambassador, I love connecting with current and prospective students and representing the welcoming and fun atmosphere in Odum!”

Isaac Wood, BS ’24

“My interest in ecology stemmed from growing up in a city and seeing the impacts of urbanization on the environment. After taking classes in Odum, I realized that I could help solve these ecological problems. I’m an ecology B.S. major pursuing the sustainability certificate, and my interests are in urban ecology, freshwater systems and environmental education. By serving as an ambassador, I hope to give back to the encouraging community I’ve found at Odum and welcome new folks to us!”

Margaret Xiao, AB ’24

“After taking an introductory environmental issues course, I knew I wanted to solve challenges at the intersection of our natural and economic systems. Odum has provided me with the programs, community and guidance that have helped me work toward these interdisciplinary aspirations. Serving as an Odum Student Ambassador allows me to share the positive experiences I had and connect with people who are seeking the same thing!”