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Cadence and Delaney of the Evening Drive on 91.9 hosted Andrew Bergmeier and Avery Johnson, the 2024 K-State Student Ambassadors. The ambassadors reflected on their unique role, which Andrew described as "the most fun job in the entire world," while Avery added, "All we get to do is chat about how much we love K-State." They shared their enthusiasm for representing Kansas State University and the joy of traveling across Kansas and beyond to promote the university's culture and community.
Becoming Ambassadors
When asked what motivated them to become ambassadors, both Andrew and Avery shared personal stories of inspiration. Andrew credited two mentors who encouraged him to apply at the last minute. Avery, on the other hand, was inspired by a former sorority member who had served as an ambassador. She explained, "I saw how much the Alumni Association impacted not only our current students but also our connection to future and past students."
Life as Ambassadors
The ambassadors discussed their travels, which included attending events like the Catbacker Tour and Wabash Cannonball. Andrew shared a memorable experience from Scott City: "I had the chance to try mountain oysters for the first time… they didn’t tell me what it was until after I ate it!" Avery highlighted how meaningful it was to visit their hometowns and share their work with local communities.
Reflecting on their bond as co-ambassadors, Avery revealed that they didn’t know each other before taking on this role. However, over time, they became close friends. "On our last day, Andrew leaned over to me and said, 'You’re my best friend.' I said, 'You’re my best friend too.'"
Balancing Academics and Ambassador Duties
Balancing academics with ambassador responsibilities was no small feat. Both agreed that prioritizing what they were passionate about helped them manage their busy schedules. Avery humorously mentioned attending class in khaki pants due to a leadership reception after their radio appearance. She added, "There’s really not any more fun that we could possibly have squeezed out of K-State."
Andrew emphasized how supportive the K-State community had been: "Every time we unfortunately have to miss something or be late… faculty, staff, other students ask us, 'How was your experience? How did you get to better K-State today?'"
Challenges and Overcoming Them
When asked about challenges they faced as ambassadors, both acknowledged the difficulty of adjusting to a demanding schedule while maintaining mental health. Andrew explained, "It’s tough to get up some days… but the support system at K-State has really helped us get through those rough days." Avery agreed, noting how they supported each other during tough moments: "He takes some days; I take others."
Proudest Accomplishments
One of their proudest accomplishments was being part of K-State’s 150th anniversary celebration for the Alumni Association. Avery described it as an honor: "It's pretty special since it only happens every 150 years." Andrew added that learning about all the behind-the-scenes work at K-State gave him a newfound respect for everyone involved.
Advice for Future Ambassadors
As their term came to an end, both ambassadors offered advice for their successors, Dalton Simmer and Emily Jones. Andrew emphasized teamwork: "Always remember that it’s you two working as a team." Avery added how important it is to rely on each other: "If one person slips up or forgets something, you have a teammate who can fill in."
Staying Connected with K-State
Though their ambassador journey is ending, both plan to stay connected with K-State in different ways. Avery hopes to attend law school but envisions returning as an alumni board member or mentor. Andrew will continue his studies at K-State while pursuing a master’s degree in student development.
In closing, Avery expressed gratitude: "Thank you to everyone who has had such a big impact on us this last year." Andrew humorously added, "We could talk to a brick wall… so giving us microphones is dangerous."
To learn more about the incoming K-State Student ambassadors visit https://www.k-state.com/news/2024Oct28Ambassadors.php
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