Student Ambassador Spotlight
Amanda Cantillo
Expected Graduation Year: 2016
Major: Event Planning Track in Hospitality & Tourism Management
How would you describe your years as an FIU student?
I would describe my time at FIU as a learning experience. My different leadership roles have taught me a lot about myself. The best lesson so far: I can always do more than I think.
Why did you decided to join the Student Ambassador Program?
I was an intern in the FIU Alumni Association office as part of the Events Team and the adviser, Betty, thought I would make a great fit for the program. Not being someone to pass up an opportunity to join such a prestigious organization, I immediately applied.
What would you say to another student who is thinking about applying to be a 2016 Ambassador?
Do it! You get to meet some really talented and successful alumni who started just where you are now at FIU. It’s great to hear their insight and get to network with them. As Student Ambassadors we support a variety of programs and events that allow for great one on one interaction with successful FIU alumni, donors and supporters. Additionally, some of my greatest friendships have bloomed from the program; as Ambassadors we truly get to know each other at events, meetings, and socials where we really become a family.
What do you hope for this program and its future?
I hope this program can grow not only in size, but in reputation. There are so many ambitious and worthwhile students at FIU that could benefit from this special leadership experience. I want the FIU community to know the Student Ambassadors as a top organization on campus that builds strong leaders and model students.
What other student organizations do you belong to?
I am a sister of Phi Mu Fraternity as well as a member of Order of Omega.
Why are you a proud panther?
I think a better question is how could I not be? Ha ha. For such a young university, we’ve made leaps and bounds in all fields we endeavor in. Personally, as a Hospitality student, I value my education so much because I know I’m being taught by industry leaders who bring real world experience to the classroom. Our supporters are always reaching out whether it be through the South Beach Wine and Food Festival or Wayne Chaplin coming to teach a class himself. The Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management offers so many career opportunities that there’s no choice, our graduates will be successful. As President Rosenberg likes to say “We make the impossible into the inevitable.” That is what makes FIU great!
What has your best memory as a Student Ambassador?
My best memory as an Ambassador is the successful execution of the 2015 Trail of The Torch. Our dedicated committee worked for months to ensure the event would be a success and seeing all our hard work finally come to fruition was the most satisfying feeling ever.
Interested in applying to become a 2016 Student Ambassador? Click here to learn more!