International sponsored student ambassadors and arrival assistance volunteers

International sponsored students receive primary educational funding through a third-party source, such as a government (U.S. or foreign), foundation, nonprofit organization and more. They come to Mizzou from nearly 50 different countries and study a variety of majors. Sponsored student ambassadors welcome these new students to campus and assist them with settling in and building friendships.

Ambassadors arrive on campus the week before classes start each semester to participate in Welcome Week events. Throughout the rest of the semester, ambassadors are welcome to organize their own activities and spend time with sponsored students as their schedules allow. Ambassadors should demonstrate interest in getting involved with the international student community.

Apply to be a sponsored student ambassador

Arrival assistance volunteers welcome new sponsored students to Mizzou by providing transportation from the Columbia Airport and/or assisting them with getting settled. This opportunity is open to students, MU university and health care employees and members of the Columbia community. Learn more by attending a volunteer orientation — sessions are held prior to the start of each semester (check the events calendar).

Sign up to be an arrival assistance volunteer

Exchange student cultural ambassadors

Exchange students are international students studying at MU as part of a short-term reciprocal exchange program for one semester or academic year. Cultural ambassadors help to provide a smooth transition for new exchange students as they settle into their life at Mizzou.

Ambassadors arrive on campus the week before classes start each semester to assist with Welcome Week and the arrival of exchange students. They will engage with the exchange students throughout their stay in Columbia. All applicants should either have already completed a study abroad experience or have an interest in engaging with other cultures.

Cultural ambassador applications for fall 2023 are due Aug. 7, 2023.

Apply to be a cultural ambassador

International Student Welcome volunteers

Each semester, hundreds of new international students arrive at MU. They participate in International Student Welcome the week before classes begin to learn all about life at Mizzou and in Columbia.

Volunteers are needed to help run the events during International Student Welcome. They help serve meals, lead small group sessions and assist with the shopping trip. Everyone is welcome to help — U.S. and international students, MU faculty and staff, and community members. Just bring yourself and a friendly attitude. Small group leaders should be a welcoming face for new students to answer questions about campus or Columbia and be able to lead a discussion and keep students actively engaged.