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Category Archives: Ambassadors 2016-2017
A Time for Commencement
Happy Summer Penguins!
We are almost done with the 2016-2017 school year, which means that once again students will be taking the final walk that they have been preparing for. Commencement is a time of reflection and celebration for the graduates of each class and is a great opportunity for you to come and support your friends and family. Getting a degree is a great feeling, and the proof of culminating efforts to gain a higher education in pursuit of a career. Clark College is an incredibly flexible academic environment that has allowed students of all backgrounds and experiences to study under one institution. Attending Commencement is a great place to witness student success stories about overcoming difficult odds. Having attended last year,
Oswald greets students at the 2014 Clark College Commencement ceremony at the Sleep Country Amphitheater, Thursday, June 19, 2014. (Steven Lane/The Columbian)
and now taking my own walk this year, I can confidently say that it’s an event worth experiencing.
Some of the activities include a photo opportunity with graduates and Oswald, hearing the key-note speaker Ernie Hudson, musical performances, student speeches, and the walk of the graduates. This is all set in the beautiful Sunlight Supply Amphitheater in Ridgefield, WA.
For more details and directions just visit the Clark College main website.
If you are graduating this year, congratulations! You’ve made a great accomplishment!
Posted by Ambassador Abigail
Spring Thing!
Hello Penguins,
One more week left, we can do this! I know everyone is going to be busy and stressed about finals, but take a break this Friday 6/16 and come to the annual 
Spring Thing. The event runs from 10am to 1pm. It is perfect way to have fun and celebrate the end of the year. The best part is everything is going to be free! Our food carts will be giving out free food like rice bowls, hot dogs, nachos, or burritos. And for dessert there will be ice cream from Sweet Tooth. If the free food is not a good enough reason for you to come, there is so much more offered. There will be inflatables from Portland Party Works, so we can feel like kids again and jump around! Document the day with two photo booths or from a drawing done by a caricature artist. You will also be able to get artwork done from a henna artist. For entertainment we are lucky enough to have Adam the Great Magician!
The event will be held outside in Anderson Plaza by the Chime Tower. If the weather decides not to cooperate the event will be moved into
Gaiser Hall in the Student Center. But either way take some time out of the studying and come have some fun, it’ll be worth it!
Good luck on your finals!
On-Campus Money Saver Tips
“College is expensive, there’s no doubting that, but Clark College offers numerous ways to save while on a budget!
Being a student at Clark College has its perks! ASCC offers free coffee each morning of the week day to students at 
Student Life (PUB 160). Also join them for hot chocolate and oatmeal during Welcome Week.
Traveling to school every day can be expensive so take the bus instead! Through the BackPASS program any registered Clark College student with a current Clark College Student ID can purchase a quarterly discounted C-Tran Bus Pass. Visit the Clark College Bookstore in Gaiser Hall, each quarter to purchase a BackPASS for only $15.00 (current Clark
College student ID required – $9.00 annually).
Staying active and paying for a gym membership each month can add up in the long run! Registered Clark College students can purchase a discounted Fitness Center Pass at the beginning of each quarter for only $10.00! Visit the Office of Student Life in PUB 160 with your current SID number and proof of identification. Student Life will verify your current student status and provide you with a discount slip to take to the Cashier’s Office. Take the discount slip to the Cashier’s Office and present it to the Cashier to get the $10 Fitness Center Pass price. The Cashier’s Office will collect your discount slip when you pay. Then take your receipt to the fitness center and enjoy a whole quarter of fitness fun!
Ever notice those lockers around campus? Those are free to use! There are a limited number of lockers around campus for student-use. If you would like to reserve a locker FREE of charge in (PUB, HHL, SHL, JSH or APH) please visit the Office of Student Life in the Penguin Union Building 160 starting the first day of each quarter. This is a great way to save space at home and stay organized.
Stuck on a homework problem but can’t meet with your professor? Struggling in a class and rethinking your life choices? Have no fear, Student Tutoring Services is here! Student Tutoring Services is designed to provide individualized attention that facilitates student learning and academic success. Their friendly, supportive, and encouraging tutors assist with transitional studies as well as most business, English, math, science, and general education classes offered at Clark College. Tutors will also help you develop skills and confidence to become a stronger, more independent learner. Students who come in for tutoring may also access computers, software, handouts, reference materials, and other resources. This service is completely FREE!
There is also free counseling available on campus for anyone feeling stressed out or just wanting to talk to someone. Counselors are available to help students make changes that will enable them to achieve success in their personal, academic, and professional lives. The counselors provide free, short-term goal-focused counseling. Counselors support students in self-development, goal setting, and problem solving to enhance student success. Academic, personal, and mental health counseling is available. To make an appointment to see a counselor go to the Counseling and Health Center at the Health Sciences Building (HSC) Room 124 or email chc@clark.edu.
There are so many more free and discounted resources available to Clark College students. If you ever have any questions about these resources stop by the Welcome Center or call us at 360-992-2078.”
Posted by Ambassador Michaela
My Journey to Becoming a Student Ambassador
Hello Penguins,
My first year here I was a running start student, and I loved it. I had so much freedom, only went to class a couple hours a week and took classes that interested me. However, something was missing. I came to Clark for class then went straight home. I only went to my high school to get my tuition waiver signed and pick up graduation items. I did not really fit into any category. I was not a high school student anymore, but I was not really a college student either. At least that is what it felt like. I decided I wanted to be involved. I wanted to make my time at Clark count, but I really did not know what that meant either. One day while I was on Twitter, Clark retweeted a post and the word ambassador intrigued me. I mean who doesn’t want the title as an ambassador. I found out it was a paid position, had flexible hours, and an ambassador helped students. It was perfect! I decided to apply, and once I found out I got the job, I was overjoyed.
Months after actually being hired is when training started, and I am not going to lie; I was intimated. There was so much information to learn in the week of training! But as soon as we started working at the desk on the first day of fall classes, it came natural. The first day flew by. We helped so many students; I 
couldn’t believe it. But this one person stood out to me. He accidentally scheduled his classes back to back at the CTC campus and the main campus. I sat with him at the computer, and we went through and changed his whole scheduled. He kept thanking me and said he could not have done it without me. It was my first day, and I had already made a difference.
Since then I have helped countless students. Anything from helping students walk through the application process with a step
Ambassadors Makayla & Michaela
by step guide, giving tours and opening up student’s eyes about the college experience, or helping students who are coming back to school for the first time in twenty years. It is all rewarding. I finally felt like I fit in somewhere. I was excited to go to work; it helped that I loved my hours. After class I’d just grab some lunch, change my shirt, and just like that I’d be working. Everyone in the Welcome Center are the nicest people you’ll ever meet. They truly inspires me to be the best version of myself.
Being a college student can be extremely challenging. Don’t make it harder on yourself by running back and forth from your job and school, or trying to change your class time to fit your work schedule. I love working at Clark, and I bet you will too. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity! Stop by the information desk or the Welcome Center in Gaiser Hall and grab an application or just ask us more questions on everything we do!
Posted by Ambassador Makayla
Preparing for Graduation
To all of you who are graduating at the end of this quarter, Congratulations!!! That is a huge accomplishment! Whether you are graduating with an Associate’s degree, a high school diploma, or even a Bachelor’s, you should be immensely proud of yourself. It takes perseverance and courage to stick with school all the way through. For some of you, this will be the final leg of your formal education and you are ready to go out into the world and start your chosen career. For others this is but a milestone as you continue your journey towards higher degrees. Either way, this is an occasion we can all take pride in and celebrate.
As we get closer to the big day, do not forget to stay on top of your work this quarter. It’s getting gorgeous outside, and we all want to start summer and not stay inside studying, but doing poorly in a class now can still affect your graduation.
However, in preparation for the big day, remember that cap and gown packets ordered by April 21, 2017 can be picked up June 5 – June 9. If you forgot to order them, see the bookstore or the Clark College website for further instructions. Clark College students who will be graduating this school year are encouraged to try out. Graduates interested in trying out please complete the Commencement Speaker Application Form. The application form is due to Michelle Golder, in the President’s Office, Baird 103 by Monday, May 1 at 3:00 p.m.
Attending rehearsal is mandatory and will be on Wednesday, June 21, 2017 at 6 p.m. It is scheduled to be held at the Sunlight Supply Amphitheater, 17200 NE Delfel Rd, Ridgefield, WA 98642. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m.
The Commencement ceremony is Thursday, June 22, 2017 at 7 p. m. scheduled to be held at the Sunlight Supply Amphitheater, 17402 NE Delfel Rd, Ridgefield, WA 98642. Doors will open at 5 p.m
Posted by Ambassador Kristen
April has arrived, so has the Student Ambassador Applications!
Ambassador’s Jose & Kristen
Spring quarter is going by faster than I thought. I can’t believe we are going to the fourth week of classes. That means it is time to recruit the new ambassadors for the next academic year. For those seeking a flexible leadership position while attending Clark College, I highly recommend the Student Ambassador Program. Students have access to the applications online at http://www.clark.edu/future/clarkambassador/index.php or at the Information Desk right across the bookstore. The deadline to turn the full application packet in is Friday, May 12th by 4:30 p.m.
The Student Ambassador Program is meant for students who are committed to represent Clark College in various events on and off campus,
Hanging out
as well as to assist prospective students at the information desk regarding enrollment process and others. Speaking from my experiences, the program is crucial to us in terms of developing communication skills, building 
relationships, and last but not least, becoming a leader. It is just amazing when I look back my first quarter as student ambassador and realize how much learning experiences I have had, and how those experiences have helped me become who I am.
Every single campus tour I have given so far has meant something special to me. I had the chance of sharing my experiences here at Clark while providing the students all information about our community and tips to be successful academically. Aside from the fact that leading those campus tours is part of the duties, this opportunity has given some of the best friends I have ever had. Undoubtedly, being a student ambassador was the best choice I have made during my journey at Clark.
I can’t tell you all how important this position has been to me. When I was feeling hopeless that I wouldn’t come back after finishing the English program at Clark, this opportunity came out. A huge thanks to Julie Frank, who recommended me to the position. One thing is for certain, I am concluding my Associates
Degree at Clark College, because I am a Student Ambassador. Well, I may be exaggerating, a little bit, but let me tell why I said that. First, of course, the financial assistance. Second, being an Ambassador opened up many doors for my future. All the resources Clark offers I took advantage of in order to be successful in my academic and professional life, especially scholarships. Third, the main purpose of this job: help! Yes, as guidance, help students to find the right path to the beginning of success. I have no idea what I would do if I couldn’t be involved in something where I can help people, because that is what I like, and that is what we do in this job. Last, the family I have made in the office.
Happy Halloween!
Some of you may be sick and tired of it, but I have to address that I am an international student – Brazil. Now, you all can understand a little bit of my story. Different from many international students, I never lived with host family or some of my relatives. So, the lack of this “family atmosphere/environment” was something that pushed me down. Well, host families may not be the best option for some, but still, they are there for the students’ needs. Everything was getting worse, until the day I became Student Ambassador. So many things I have been through during those almost three years at Clark, but I had those people there to listen and provide me the best advice. I have to thank every single one of the Welcome Center + Kim (Enrollment Services) for being part of my professional, academic, and mainly personal life. But here is a special
Ambassador’s Melia & Jose
“THANK YOU” to Amy Tam, Beth Means, and Vanessa Watkins who have always been with me and believing in my potential. Students selected for the program will have a chance to get them know better one day.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time! Get your application, fill it out, turn it in at the Information Desk and be ready for the interviewers! I wish you the best during the process!
Posted by Ambassador Jose
Career Clothing Closet
The process of getting a job can always be intimidating. Especially if you do not have the right resources. Thankfully, if you are a Clark student there a many free resources available for you. April 19th and 20th Clark is starting off career days by having a Career Clothing Closet. In past years, they have helped over 500 students with a complete professional outfit. There will be professional clothes for all Clark students to choose from. Each student who attends will get a complete outfit that they can use for interviews or just to wear in the workplace. It is first come, first serve so get there early! They will be open in the Penguin 
Union Building upstairs in room 258 from 10am – 2pm on both days.
You are also able to donate clothing to the closet. Bring in your new and gently used workplace clothes for women and men. Make sure they are in good condition and washed before donating. If you do not have clothes to donate, cash donations are accepted in order to buy brand new clothes. In addition, all donations are tax deductible and receipts will be provided for you.
There are more events coming in May so make sure to keep your eyes out. Career Days starts May 1st and goes until May 4th. All events are free for students and to the community and you do not need to register just show up! You can find the full list of events and information about the events at www.clark.edu/cc/careerdays. All the events are to help you, so attend and have fun!
Posted by Ambassador Makayla
Scholarship opportunities just ahead!
Hello penguin nation, I hope you all are doing just great during this quarter. I know, the spring break mood is still on, but let’s try to put this away ASAP and work hard on your classes! “Working hard on my classes?! It’s just the second weekend!” – You must be wondering. That’s right, and I will tell you just one of the benefits for doing so: Scholarships!
One of the topics that cause student concern the most when going to college is how to pay for college, but that shouldn’t be an issue. There are many resources for those who need financial assistance. Financial aid, grants, benefits, and of course, scholarships! Scholarships are there for anyone to help us paying tuition, so why not apply? Plus, like grants, this extra money doesn’t not have to be paid back, which means it only depends on your interest to be a scholarship recipient. Just a bit of brief information about them: Funding for scholarships comes from local high schools, employers, local, civic and community organizations, foundations, and private sources.
Lizette from Financial Aid & Ambassador Jose
My journey here at Clark wouldn’t be the same without my scholarships. As an international student, I faced many obstacles that could discourage me to finish my educational goal. When I finished the English program, I was expecting to have to return to Brazil, my home country, for not being able to afford tuition anymore. But guess what I did?! I applied for the Foundation and International Scholarships, and now I can surely afford tuition.
So, let’s get this straight penguins, go ahead and apply now! For those attending Clark during the next academic year, 2017-1018, the Foundation Scholarship deadline is April 19th, Wednesday. All students are eligible to apply for it, so DO NOT hesitate to apply! “What about if I am transferring to a four-year college?” No worries, you might be eligible for the Foundation Transfer Scholarship, which is due on May 1st, Monday.
In order to apply, find out about eligibility, and see other scholarship opportunities, go to: http://www.clark.edu/enroll/paying-for-college/scholarships/foundation/index.php. The website also gives information about scholarships provided by outside donors across the country. If you have any further questions, you can visit our Scholarship Office located at Gaiser Hall 128. Lizette Drennan will be more than happy to talk to you about anything when it comes to financial assistance, and of course, scholarships.
By the way, a huge thank you to the Clark College Foundation. The Clark College Foundation is one of the largest community college foundations in the country and offers several scholarships to Clark College students each year
Posted by Ambassador Jose
Student Leadership: The Life of an Ambassador
I did not feel like I had a huge impact or connection with Clark College before becoming a Student Ambassador. My first year at Clark provided a good learning experience, but there were so many moments where I felt overwhelmed, alone, and clueless to where I could go for help. I knew there had to be resources and exciting opportunities that I was missing just because I did not know where to look. Reflecting back on my journey, I realize I needed to be more proactive about getting involved.
I remember the first time I came to campus I spotted a sign inside Gaiser Hall that advertised the Student Ambassador Program. I went into the Welcome Center to ask more questions, and found out that I needed to be a student for one quarter before applying for the position. I was intrigued because I love leadership opportunities and I knew the job would challenge me in ways I needed to be challenged. So, I waited for the first full year and kept this idea in the back of my mind. The following year I saw that they were hiring so I inquired again, and began the application process.
From my beginning experiences alone, I could tell this was a perfect position for me. Before I was even interviewed I had to meet with Career Services and format a professional resume which I did not know how to do. I went through an official interview which I will now draw from for future job opportunities, and attended in depth training that opened my eyes to Clark’s vast community. I could not have imagined how many resources Clark has to offer, but also how much work goes into every department, class, and event.
As the academic year comes to a close I can say that my job as a Student Ambassador has vastly improved my overall college experience. If I compare the two 
years I’ve been attending Clark, there are major differences in my attitude toward the school, but also a change in the way I approach my academic achievements. I’ve learned that it is imperative to make connections with whatever community you find yourself a part of. I have had the opportunity to meet with the Clark’s President, Washington State Government Members, and equally as important, other students. As exciting as it is to meet people with great influence, I find the most enjoyment in serving our student body and helping others make the connections I wish I had made sooner.
If you want to get involved, I would highly recommend asking yourself “why”? If it’s just to make money or have a convenient job location, then this might not be the best fit for you. You need to be driven to serve others, and willing to step outside of your comfort zone. Being a Student Ambassador means we represent Clark College and are often the first people potential students will see. It is our responsibility to make a great impression, and set the examples of leadership that exceed Clark’s standards.
Posted by Ambassador Abigail
Dive On In
This world amazes me. Like a five-year-old in awe at the vast splendors beyond my grasp, I yearn to expand my playground. To me that’s what the world is, a jungle gym of wonderment, knowledge, and adventure hiding around every corner.
Believe it or not, there is more to the Eden like Vancouver Washington than Penguins and Clark College. When my happy feet are exhausted from waddling up and down the march of the Penguin Pathways, I use my fins and DIVE!!!!!!!
Vancouver Washington has a very strong Scuba community. Yes, its cold and rainy, but despite that, us Divers will indulge ourselves regardless.
My go to dive spot is Puget Sound towards Seattle. There’s a quaint lil abode called Sunrise Diving Resort, they have cheap package deals, a hot tub, bbq, kitchen, coffee shop, and more. The owner is extremely nice, and it has a real cozy, laid back, mom and pop feel. You can literally walk from the hotel into the ocean. There is camping and hiking nearby. I have seen sea lions, sea otters, seals, and tons of amazing life below the surface. Orca’s and the rare six gilled shark are known to frequent this area.
As long as I could recall, I have wanted to Scuba Dive. I now have under my belt my Open Water, Advanced Open Water, and Rescue 
Diver Certifications. This year I will be entering the Dive Master program through PADI and then the Dive Instructor program. I go through a local shop Seven Seas, which has been phenomenal and are great at working with divers of all skill levels and have all kinds training packages, gear, trips, and community events planned for divers and others as well.
My seafaring adventures include, but are not limited to diving to one hundred feet, a night dive under the radiant gaze of the full moons beams, in which I saw a pacific giant octopus at Octopus Hole in Puget Sound. At night the bioluminescence is gorgeous and looks like green fireflies in the water.
My favorite dive yet was diving to forty feet with a pumpkin and a dive knife, carving the pumpkin at the bottom, while fish swarm around me to feast on the eviscerated remains of the Jack-O-Lantern. I put a dive light inside of it to make it a true sea quest Jack-O-Lantern and guide my way back to shore. I arose from the depths of the sea triumphant. I won the 2017 Seven Seas Scuba Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest, which is put on annually in October by the dive shop.
What does scuba diving have to do with Clark College? Us Penguins work and study hard. We need breaks, an outlet, a reward. I love scuba diving. Under the blanket of the nurturing sea is the only place on the planet I can fully relax, forget my worries and woes, be at peace, and escape the confines of my overactive mind. It truly is magical in the ocean, which is still the last frontier. It’s akin to being an astronaut floating, navigating alien territory, mystified by the magnificent life abundant all around. I feel so alive down there. It’s exciting and I love sharing that bliss with others. I love the Pacific Northwest more than anywhere, and I am well-traveled. I am so lucky to be here and share its splendors. I want everyone to realize how fruitful it is and not take it for granted. Our community has a lot to offer. There is something for everyone. This is our playground. Seek out your passion and have fun. You deserve it. You worked hard and now it’s time to reward yourself. We are the Mighty Penguin Nation and we will take pride in our playground and play hard.
Posted by Ambassador Jonathan
Clark College Student Ambassadors 