To embrace the world of modern technology, the University of North Georgia offers selected students an opportunity to showcase their college experience through the Social Media Ambassador Program.
Starting at the beginning of 2024, the Social Media Ambassador Program was created by the Strategic Communications and Marketing Social Team to increase media engagement while providing ambassadors with the opportunity to grow. A diverse group of students chosen are given a Nighthawk account where they create photo posts, stories and reels of their student life to entertain current followers and to continue growing a Nighthawk fan base.
Since the program’s launch, Madison Wimberly, UNG’s Marketing Coordinator, has noticed a substantial increase in the likes, shares and comments on the university’s social media accounts. “The ambassadors encourage dialogue and interaction, responding to comments and engaging with followers,” said Wimberly, “which creates a more dynamic and responsive social media environment.”
Alongside the direct interaction between university media pages and the student body, the program has developed UNG’s brand identity to resemble the inclusive and lively atmosphere each campus offers. All Nighthawk accounts highlight real student experiences which attract audiences who desire authentic experiences like ones shared on Instagram.
Not only does the university gain more media traction, but the ambassadors are also given a platform to develop their skills in digital marketing, content creation and social media strategy. Their experience as ambassadors enhances their lives both within and outside of college.
“The program is about empowering students, equipping them with skills and experiences that will serve them well in their future endeavors. [It provides] them with opportunities to shine as influencers in their own way.” – Madison Wimberly, UNG Marketing Coordinator
During their time as students, ambassadors get exclusive access to events and promotional material to create engaging content and their performance could lead to scholarships and internships. They are also given a social media influencer platform to build their personal brand which can result in gaining visibility and followers on accounts without campus affiliation.
Marin McCarthy, a sophomore majoring in psychology, shared that the program has given her the confidence to step outside her comfort zone. “I truly fell in love with the school when I put myself out there and started doing things I normally wouldn’t,” said McCarthy.
