Our Student Ambassadors play an important role in welcoming new international students to Hillsborough Community College. Whether you are a prospective student who is still trying to decide whether HCC is the right fit for you, have just been admitted to HCC, or are a first-year international student adjusting to life and academics in the United States, our International Student Ambassadors are ready to share their experiences with you and answer any questions you may have.
Home country: Morocco
Major: AA - Computer Science
Favorite course: Sociology
My favorite thing about Tampa: The beaches
Hobbies: Reading, cooking, yoga
Languages: Arabic, French, English
One thing people don't know about me: I sleep with the lights on.
Best way to contact me: seljbari@hawkmail.hccfl.edu
Home country: Guatemala
Major: AA - Architecture
Favorite course: Digital Architecture
My favorite thing about Tampa: Ybor City and the beaches
Hobbies: Swimming, listening to music, hanging out with friends, and dancing.
Languages: English, Spanish
One thing people don’t know about me: I love butterflies and dogs. Also, I have a phobia of bees.
Best way to contact me: elopezdiaz@hawkmail.hccfl.edu
Home country: Tanzania
Major: AA-Pre-Medical Studies
Favorite course: Algebra
My favorite thing about Tampa: Busch Gardens
Hobbies: Soccer, listening to music, and traveling
Languages: English and Swahili
One thing people don’t know about me: I love a good debate!
Best way to contact me: jmwakyonde@hawkmail.hccfl.edu
Do you want to share your experiences at HCC with new international students? Are you friendly and outgoing? The CIE office provides leadership opportunities for students to contribute to their and their peers’ holistic HCC experience. As an International Student Ambassador, you meet international students from around the world and help them in the weeks leading up to their arrival in Tampa and their first days at HCC, during our New International Student Orientations, International Student Club activities, community events, etc.
There are several paid Ambassador positions available each academic year for which students in their second semester or beyond may apply. Applications to be an Ambassador become available in March.