What's JCA?
History
The Journalism & Communications Ambassadors began when founder Katie Reid, magazine - journalism major, became frustrated with the lack of unity between the students of differing majors, organizations and faculty-student relationships within the college.
Reid hopes the JCAmbassadors will continue to represent a selection
of the most professionally experienced and academically accomplished students
in the college. Through their leadership, JCA hopes to increase the cohesiveness
within the college by motivating students and faculty to work together. By
unifying our college, we can continue to improve both the academic and social
quality of our educational environment.
Our Mission
The primary purpose of University of Florida Journalism and Communications Ambassadors is to serve and represent the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications by assisting with academic and professional guidance, promoting high standards of excellence in the college and facilitating interaction between students and the surrounding local community.
Representative Responsibilities
JCA's main goal is to represent the students of the College of Journalism & Communications by promoting the excellence of our college to current and potential students, other colleges in the university, college and university alumni and other collegiate institutions.
Our activities include:
- Giving tours to prospective students, visiting alumni and professionals
- Hosting events on behalf of the college’s administration, faculty and staff
- Mentoring new students through our Pathfinder Program and
making them feel welcomed in such a large collegiate environment
- Reaching out to the community through involvement in several
high school newspaper, yearbook and broadcast programs
- Developing relationships with the professional community and
educating fellow students about industry changes relevant to
career success
Mentoring Initiative
Part of our representative responsibility includes managing a three-tiered mentoring program. Our Pathfinder Mentoring Program was designed for underclassmen to help them make the transition from high school to college. Interested students are paired individually with a JCAmbassador whom they can go to for advice about classes, assignments, work experience and scholarships.
Each year this program is initiated through a two-day conference called the Survivor Workshop, where students can gain advice from upperclassmen on how to "survive" their college experience. This is a great opportunity for students to familiarize themselves with their majors, student organizations and other professional development opportunities.
JCAmbassadors also work to strengthen and develop high school journalism & communications programs in the community. Currently, we are working with Loften High School, Buchholz High School and Gainesville High School. We are proud to promote scholastic journalism through volunteering with local yearbook, newspaper and broadcast programs.
Finally, each JCAmbassador is also paired with a professional mentor in their field of study in an effort to help prepare them for life after graduation. These professional mentors lend advice, guidance and help JCAmbassadors stay abreast of current field trends.