From campus tours to online Q&A’s, my journey as a university ambassador

Macy Li

Starting postgraduate studies can feel like diving into the unknown. I still remember the nerves I had when I first began, which is why I eagerly jumped at the opportunity to become a university ambassador. I wanted to help others navigate this transition and find their footing.

Being an ambassador has been an incredible experience. It’s allowed me to connect with potential students, whether I’m guiding them around campus, sharing what life at Durham is really like during open days, or answering their burning questions in online Q&A sessions.

Exploring the city, campus, and colleges

One of the best parts of being an ambassador is leading tours during open days. I get to show off the city, the campus, and the colleges—essentially all the places that make studying here such a unique experience.

Interestingly, I’ve also used this role as an opportunity to explore the city more myself. Leading these tours has taught me more than I ever expected—I’ve learned fascinating details about the history of buildings and the stories behind various landmarks. It’s a win-win for everyone, as we all get to uncover more of what makes this beautiful, historic city so special.

Connecting through online Q&A sessions

Not everyone can make it to campus, especially those who are halfway across the world or balancing a full-time job. That’s where online Q&A sessions come in.

These are some of my favourite events to host because they allow me to connect with students in a more personal way. It’s like having a friendly chat—students can ask anything on their minds, from how the course is structured to what it’s really like living away from home. We cover from academic side of things, like what the workload is actually like, to the practical stuff, like finding accommodation and getting involved in campus life.

Other opportunities

I’ve also had the chance to take on various other interesting roles, such as:

  • Open Days and Post-offer Visit Days: Presenting, guiding, staffing stands—basically, anything that helps showcase what our university has to offer.
  • Recruitment Events: Assisting in key moments like Confirmation and Clearing.

Balancing study with part time work

This is a casual job, so I can sign up for events whenever I have the time, and I can skip them when I’m too busy. There’s no pressure, just the flexibility to get involved when it suits me.

Discover more

Find out more about part time work at Durham university in Mia’s video

Download our latest prospectus and college guide here.

Follow our students on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

Macy Li


Hey there! I'm Macy, an international student doing my MSc in Developmental Psychopathology at Ustinov College. I'm loving my time here at Durham, and I hope you are too! If you ever spot me around, don’t hesitate to come say hi - I’d love to chat!


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