Vaibhav Paul Named Outstanding Graduate Ambassador

The Division of Student Services and International Relations recently celebrated our student volunteers who participated in the Graduate Ambassador Program during the 2017-2018 academic year.

MBA candidate Vaibhav Paul was named Outstanding Graduate Ambassador, winning a $500 award and a certificate signed by the Dean in recognition of his meaningful contributions to the Schulich community; particularly incoming and prospective students.

Graduate Ambassadors are a select group of current student leaders who share their passion for being a Schulich student with the community. Their duties include recruitment support, assisting with orientation events, and connecting 1-on-1 with applicants to the school.

“I saw the Graduate Ambassador Program as an opportunity for me take a step further, to help others and make a positive impact on their well-being.”

Vaibhav showed a remarkable commitment to the program, and to improving the experience of students considering a degree at Schulich. He was a friendly and engaged host at various events, including both of the Experience Schulich open houses. He also made himself available to applicants and incoming students, providing building tours, class visits and taking questions over e-mail.

“I saw the Graduate Ambassador Program as an opportunity for me to take a step further, over and above my MBA curriculum,” said Vaibhav, “A chance to volunteer to help others and make a positive impact on their well-being.”

Paying It Forward

Vaibhav, who will graduate this summer, recalls the lasting impression made by his own Graduate Ambassadors as he transitioned into the MBA program in Winter 2017.

“Before starting my MBA, I reached out to graduate students at Schulich and received an amazing response,” he recalls. “I wanted to pass it on to those prospective students going through a similar phase and seeking any kind of help.”

There’s no doubt that Vaibhav had an impact on those he worked with, many of whom felt more welcomed and informed as a result of connecting with him. But he notes that the benefits of the program are twofold.

“By participating in the program, I was not only able to assist prospective students and contribute to the community, but also to improve myself,” says Vaibhav. “Through those fun and interesting conversations that I had, I was able to network with some awesome people coming from different backgrounds and walks of life, ultimately building my ‘people skills’ that are crucial to succeed in the professional world.”

Also honoured at the 2018 Graduate Ambassadors Appreciation Event were runners up and MMgt classmates Sayada Nabi and Jordyn Posluns. Both students gave freely of their time throughout the year, joining in open houses, contributing to the GradBlog, and sharing their experiences with incoming students.

A huge thank-you to our amazing Graduate Ambassadors who volunteered their time this year!

If you’re interested in volunteering as a Graduate Ambassador throughout the Summer Term, please e-mail events@schulich.yorku.ca.