Every fall, thousands of college-bound students put UC Davis on their wish list. Some know exactly what they want to study, but most are searching for just the “right fit” — a quest that includes exploring possible majors and all aspects of student life. Who better to serve as sherpa on that journey than a current Aggie?

Our Ambassadors of Letters and Science (ALAS) work directly with prospective students and families, as well as peers, College leadership, and the community at large, to represent all the College has to offer.

Ambassadors of Letters and Science at UC Davis
Front row from left: Itzelth Gamboa (communication and sociology), Scott Hornbuckle (medieval and early modern studies), Mark Foncannon (staff coordinator), Quilvio Hernandez (economics, and mathematical analytics and operations research), Priyal Thakral (international relations and managerial economics). Back from left: Zach Luis (applied mathematics and economics), Beitong Li (economics and mathematics), Khalil Malik (communication and political science–public service), Metzli Montero (applied physics), and Angie Ni (computer science). Not pictured: Ellen Chu (pharmaceutical chemistry) and Leeann Taylor (linguistics).

“Ambassadors play a critical role in our outreach efforts,” said Mark Foncannon, director of student recruitment and career development for the College, who launched the program in 2019. “Their enthusiasm about sharing their Aggie experiences at events, information sessions, and tours can make all the difference for students sorting through their options. We simply couldn’t connect with as many individuals, especially on such a personal level, without them.”

Khalil Malik, a second-year student double majoring in communication and political science–public service, said he hopes to smooth the transition to Aggie life. “I had a hard time finding resources my first year,” Malik said. “As an Ambassador of Letters and Science, I can help make sure new students don’t have the same challenge.”

Read more about 2019-20 ambassadors.
 

Donna Justice, director of marketing and communications for the UC Davis College of Letters and Science, wrote this article for the fall 2019 issue of the College of Letters and Science Magazine