Meet the Ambassadors
Alyssa Anderson
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
Major: Exercise, Sport, and Health Science with a Pre-PT emphasis
Year in School: Senior
Activities: Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, Pre-PT/OT/AT club member
A few of my favorite things: the color yellow, sunsets, dogs and hiking!
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I wanted to become an Ambassador because I wanted to be able to promote the University I love and especially the college I love! Coming into college was so easy and seamless with the help of the staff and faculty in the College of Education, Health and Human Science and I am so thankful for that. I was encouraged to find something I was passionate about and with the help of everyone including the EHHS ambassadors my freshman year I found something I truly love. I wanted to become an ambassador to give back to those people that helped me so much and to help others find something they love and are passionate about.
Emilia Carrillo
Hometown: American Falls, Idaho
Major: Exercise, Sport, and Health Science with a Pre-Med emphasis
Year in School: Junior
Activities: OELA, MAS
A few of my favorite things: Plants (primarily succulents), puzzles, bananas, longboarding and Facetiming my friends
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I wanted to become an ambassador for the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences because I wanted to reach out to students who come from a diverse background like myself. Being a Chicana, first generation, coming from a low-income household and having a farm-working background I have had the privilege of being involved in so many programs that supported me and showed me how to thrive in an environment that I otherwise would have been lost in. I believe it is crucial to give students, especially first generation students, a helping hand throughout their college career. I want to ensure students are aware of all of the resources that are available to them, so they can have the best possible college experience. I am so excited to be a part of and network with a group of passionate and ambitious students who want to contribute to their college.
Maddie Coleman
Hometown: Bend, Oregon
Major: Exercise, Sport, and Health Science with a Pre-Physical Therapy emphasis
Year in School: Sophomore
Activities: Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority and Pre-PT/OT/AT club
A few of my favorite things: books, peanut butter, swimming, the sound of tires on gravel, long walks outside, and getting letters in the mail
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I first heard about the ambassador program for the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences through my advisor, and quickly realized how much I wanted to be a part of it. Every interaction I have had here in this college has been a positive one. I want to grow those relationships and make new ones with faculty and both prospective and current students. This position also gives me the opportunity to strengthen my confidence and leadership skills, along with connecting me to those as passionate as I am. I have always felt supported and comfortable around the people here, and as an ambassador I want to be that welcoming person for someone else.
Harper Crist
Hometown: Nampa, Idaho
Major: Exercise, Sport, and Health Science with a AT emphasis
Year in School: Sophomore
Activities: Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, Pre-PT/OT/AT club, sorority social media chair
A few of my favorite things: Watermelon, paddle boarding, going on hikes, sunny days on the boat
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I knew I wanted to be an ambassador when I came to UIdaho Bound as a Senior in high school. Two of the ambassadors helped be sign up for my classes and made me feel so much more comfortable and less nervous knowing I was going 6 hours away to college that fall. After we had signed up for my classes, they asked me to come tour their sorority. The rest is history, I'm now an ambassador with these two girls and in the same sorority, and without meeting them, I don't think I would be where I am today. They helped me so much just through that one day of UIdaho Bound and I hope to do the same thing for all other prospective Vandals. This university has so much to offer and I cannot wait to see what future students are going to accomplish! I have learned so much in these two short years here at U of I but I am so excited to share these lessons with incoming Vandals, along with helping promote ESHS and all it has to offer. Go Vandals!
Makena Douglas
Hometown: Spokane, Washington
Major: Exercise, Sport, and Health Science
Year in School: Junior
Activities: Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority and Pre-PT/OT/AT club
A few of my favorite things: chai tea, sunrises, hiking up to alpine lakes, long drives, corgis and hotels
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I wanted to become a student ambassador because it is a unique opportunity to become more involved with the College of Education, Health, And Human Sciences. There is a strong sense of community among the faculty and students that I have felt since my first day on campus. I have received a tremendous amount of support from my advisor, peers, professors, and other faculty members. I want to share my positive experience at the University of Idaho with other students and help them make the most of their time here!
Layna Erickson
Hometown: Rigby, Idaho
Major: Elementary education, with an emphasis in literacy and a minor in psychology
Year in School: Sophomore
A few of my favorite things: Reading, listening to music, dancing, rainy days, bubble tea, and sleeping
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
wanted to become an ambassador for the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences because I wanted to know more about the college. When I first started school, I didn’t know what I wanted to do, let alone what events were happening on campus. Once I figured out that I wanted to major in elementary education I realized that there might be others in my shoes, and I thought it would be nice to help them figure out their college path. I also thought that being an ambassador would be a fun experience that I would be able to continuously learn from.
Alyssa Finifrock
Hometown: Athena, Oregon
Major: Exercise, Sport, and Health Science
Year in School: Junior
Activities: Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, secretary of the PT/AT/OT club
A few of my favorite things: I love dogs, going hiking, playing volleyball, and hanging out with my friends
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I wanted to become a student ambassador of the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences (EHHS) because this college has helped me to grow in so many ways and given me so many different opportunities. I have met so many supportive faculty and peers who truly care about me and my education. Becoming an ambassador was important to me because I want to help educate potential students on the great things our college offers. I also want to help incoming and current students find what they are passionate about within the college just like I was able to.
Emma Flolo
Hometown: Hailey, Idaho
Major: Secondary Education w/ Special Education, History, and English emphasis/Minor in Psychology
Year in School: Junior
Activities: Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority and Palouse Project Productions
A few of my favorite things: Mountain biking, good climbing trees, my Subaru Outback, soy nuggets, and sunrises
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I wanted to be an ambassador because education is something that I am very passionate about, and that’s a passion I want to share with others! Going into the educational field was daunting for me because it’s a distinct career path, so I want to help encourage new and potential students as they enter the field as well. The College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences has been a wonderful place to grow for me in college, and I’m excited to share that experience with others this year!
Matthew Gee
Hometown: Rathdrum, Idaho
Major: Secondary Education with Social Sciences and Special Education emphasis
Year in School: Senior
Activities: Amateur Radio Club at the University of Idaho
A few of my favorite things: Traveling and experience new cultures, anything involving history such as museums or historical sites, ham radio, hunting, fishing, and sports
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
Coming back to school after so many years in the workforce was a daunting experience for me. As an older non-traditional student, I felt the desire to help others who were in my situation, so when I read about the opportunity to become a student ambassador in the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences (EHHS), I jumped at the chance. Now in my second year as a student ambassador I have been given the privilege to continue to help ease the transition process for other students, traditional and non-traditional alike, and encourage them to seek out all of the services and help available. I am excited to be able to continue sharing my experiences with current and perspective students and help promote EHHS, and all of the amazing opportunities that it affords.
Mariah Hobbs
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
Major: Elementary Education with an emphasis in Special Education
Year in School: Junior
Activities: Autism tutor, volunteer with Girl Scouts
A few of my favorite things: books with notes in the margins, pasta, the smell of rain, randomly dancing in the aisles of grocery stores, jumbo boxes of candy from Costco
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I wanted to become an ambassador for the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences because I have had so many positive experiences with students, staff and faculty
that I want to share with others. As an out-of-state student, I want to help show potential students what a great community Moscow, Idaho is and how it can be their new home as well. I have been immersed in the education department of the CEHHS and want to venture out and learn more about the other departments that my college consists of as well. I want to gain leadership and communication skills that can help me not only in my professional career, but in my personal life as well.
Kassi Hoots
Hometown: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Major: Elementary Education
Year in School: Senior
Activities: Barista at Boston's Brew
A few of my favorite things: Fall weather, Chinese food, coffee anything, the color yellow, and English bulldogs
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I wanted to become an ambassador because I enjoy working with and helping others find their place in life. I also want to learn more about the college and all the great resources that are offered. I was a transfer student at one point, and I know how it feels to walk into a program and knowing absolutely no one. I want to be someone who can help show students the abundant resources our college has to offer, while also answering any questions they may have. As a student who has attended the Moscow campus and now the Coeur d’Alene campus, I want to be a resource for all students no matter which campus they feel suits them best.
Lindsey Jacobson
Hometown: Meridian, Idaho
Major: Secondary Education with a Biology Emphasis and Endorsement in Natural Sciences
Year in School: Junior
Activities: Former active member of Delta Gamma, Honors Program Ambassador, Women in Science Society
A few of my favorite things: dogs, travelling, my family and friends, outdoor activities, coffee
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I wanted to become an ambassador for the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences because I wanted to advocate for a college that I felt was so welcoming and helpful for me to pursue my passion. I want to educate prospective students on not only what great things this college offers but what the University of Idaho offers in general. This campus is so welcoming and offers a variety of programs, clubs and activities for every student. I also think it is a great opportunity for me to grow as a leader and be involved on campus at the same time!
Megan Lolley
Hometown: Nampa, Idaho
Major: Secondary Education, English with a teaching emphasis
Year in School: Sophomore
Activities: Vice President of the Independent Creative Writing Workshop Club, Editor for The Looking Glass, Writing Center Tutor, SI PASS Leader, Spanish Tutor
A few of my favorite things: Grape juice, my pet fish (his name is Rodrick), poetry books, oversized sweaters, the smell of the pine trees
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I wanted to become an ambassador for the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences because I wanted to learn more about each area within this department and connect with some new people. I also thought it would be a great opportunity to practice my leadership skills. I am excited to be able to represent this amazing college and share my experiences and memories with students that are interested in the program and the University of Idaho in general.
Ashlyn Mallet
Hometown: Athol, Idaho
Major: Secondary Education with Math emphasis
Year in School: Sophomore
Activities: Intramurals, Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority
A few of my favorite things: sweater weather, coffee, dinosaurs, Bath and Body Works, fuzzy socks, Christmas, and being around people I love
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I wanted to become an ambassador for the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences because I was excited to share my experiences with potential new Vandals and help guide them to their home away from home. The University of Idaho has always been in my college plans since I was little, and now that I am here, I have enjoyed it more than I could have imagined. I know the opportunity to be an Ambassador will be a great tool in building me into a better educator also. I am thrilled to represent my college and hopefully rally new students to join our family.
Lenah Matz
Hometown: Meridian, Idaho
Major: Exercise, Sport, and Health Science, and Philosophy
Year in School: Senior
Activities: SWIP (Society of Women in Philosophy), UI Pre-med club, Research Assistant
A few of my favorite things: backpacking, pottery, CrossFit, making kombucha, reading!
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I came to the University of Idaho with end goals in mind, but I didn’t know the path I was going to achieve them through. After a semester I found my home within the college of EHHS, largely due to being welcomed, guided, and encouraged by the faculty and staff. I hope to return that gift by walking with future students and reminding current students of how special our college is through the opportunities available. I hope to take part in the opportunity of sharing my experiences, knowledge, and appreciation surrounding the college with current and future students —ultimately being one of many to facilitate their own success.
Alyssa Ralstin
Hometown: Lewiston, Idaho
Major: Elementary Education with literacy emphasis
Year in School: Junior
Activities: I am a member of Delta Gamma!
A few of my favorite things: I love fruit, my dog Asher, going on hikes, and summer!
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I wanted to become an ambassador for the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences because I wanted to become more involved in our college. I have had such great opportunities come from being a part of this college, and I wanted to be able to expand on it. The College of Education, Health and Human Sciences has helped me grow as a student, leader, and future teacher. I also wanted to be able to share this will perspective students and help ease their minds as they are entering college!
Richard (Rick) Sperry
Hometown: Bishop, California
Major: Social Studies with an emphasis in History and Political Science
Year in School: Junior
Activities: I enjoy traveling to other countries and exploring their culture. I enjoy board games with my family, watching/playing sports, playing guitar and hunting/fishing
A few of my favorite things: Peanut Butter on Celery, Pepsi, Sports, Mystery Books, Tacos and Hanging out with friends
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I am just a laid-back guy who wants to see everyone succeed. I wanted to become an ambassador in the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences because I wanted to be a part of helping the future be successful in their own education. I have met some amazing people in the groups, clubs and classes in the College of Education and would like to share that experience with future students that are on the fence about attending. Since joining the College of Education, I have gained better leadership skills and a broader knowledge base of our duty as future educators to the students we will be teaching. I look forward to paying this knowledge forward in any way I can.
Hailey Ward
Hometown: Lewiston, Idaho
Major: Elementary Education with an Emphasis in Literacy
Year in School: Senior
Activities: Delta Gamma, Moscow School District Adventure Club Supervisor
A few of my favorite things: A little bit about me is that I have always wanted to become a teacher since I was little! I love everything to do with education and learning. I also enjoy doing painting and other random crafts in my free time. I love to spend time with family and friends and also have a soft spot for gardening with my mom.
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I wanted to become an Ambassador to become more involved and closer connect to people within my college. I knew being a part of the Ambassador program would increase connections I have with staff, professors, my peers, and future students on the college...and it has done just that! I have stayed with the program because I love being a part of this team on campus.
Brandon Webster
Hometown: Tucson, Arizona
Major: Exercise, Sport, and Health Science, Pre-PT
Year in School: Senior
Activities: President of the Physical Therapy/ Occupational Therapy/ Athletic Training club, member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity
A few of my favorite things: Music, exercise, outdoor recreation, learning new things, farming, empanadas, traveling, the whooshing sound of wind through pine trees, and the crisp smell in the air after it rains
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
When I think back to my senior year of high school and coming to tour the U of I as a prospecting student, I remember so many amazing things that stood out to me about this campus and what it had to offer. But the most influential factor that helped sway my decision were the people. Specifically, the people who were meant to convey the University of Idaho experience to incoming students and their families. That feeling of inclusion from the moment I got here truly made me feel like a part of the Vandal Family already. It felt natural and genuine, and this is exactly why I decided to become a Student Ambassador, so that I may convey the University of Idaho experience for what it truly is. My aim is to assist students and families in any way I can to make them feel well informed, properly prepared, and most of all welcomed into the Vandal Family. Additionally, I want to make this experience as natural as possible for incoming families. Students should feel excited and look forward to this new chapter, and parents should feel content, comfortable, and confident with having their child spend the next four years of their lives here. I hope to make a lasting impression on those I encounter during my time as a Student Ambassador, to hopefully aid in the decision of someone becoming a future Vandal!
Colby West
Hometown: Leavenworth, Washington
Major: Elementary Education
Year in School: Junior
Activities: Kappa Delta Sorority and Student Alumni Relations Board
A few of my favorite things: I love Crocs!, spending time with my sisters, sunshine and yellow, criminal minds, spontaneous adventures, corny jokes
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I came to the university as a Marketing major and switch into the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences during my second semester of my Sophomore year. Ever since I have switched into this college, I have felt so welcomed by all of the faculty and the students. I also come from Washington, so I wanted to be an ambassador to share my experiences within the college and at the University since I do come from out of state. I also wanted to become an ambassador to gain more knowledge about the college itself and to become a part of a group of people also dedicated to the college of Education Health and Human Sciences.
Emma Wickham
Hometown: Meridian, Idaho
Major: Exercise, Sport, and Health Science – Physical Education Teacher Education
Year in School: Senior
Activities: Gamma Phi Beta sorority
A few of my favorite things: Listening to music, playing intramurals, camping, fishing, hanging out with friends, boating
Why I wanted to become a student ambassador:
I wanted to become a student ambassador because it allows me to give back to my college and the university. Along with this, I remember coming in my own freshman year and feeling overwhelmed and not knowing what to expect during my transition from high school. Through this position, I can help prospective students with class choices, questions about their major, and even just talking about Moscow life in general. My favorite part of this position is getting to meet with students and their families and getting to know what they are excited about when choosing to attend University of Idaho.
