Emily Jones and Dalton Simmer were elected by the student body to serve as the 2025 Student Ambassadors and have shared their reflections below:

Emily Jones

In one word, how would you describe your experience as a K-State Student Ambassador?

Fulfilling.

What surprised you the most about your experience?

What surprised me most was the amount of people I was able to meet and connect with. No matter where we went, Dalton and I were approached by countless individuals excited to share their K-State story with us. It really showed me the amazing impact Kansas State has had on so many generations, and I have been reminded throughout the year that being a K-Stater is not just for four years, but for life. 

Do you have a favorite event you attended?

My favorite event would have to be our dinner event in St. Joseph, Missouri, because Dalton and I actually got to attend this twice! This was the first event we attended immediately after being selected alongside the previous ambassadors, Avery Johnson and Andrew Bergmeier. The community members attending this event were incredibly supportive and excited to talk to us, and it was very encouraging to see how our upcoming year would look. Getting to attend this event again a few weeks ago with the incoming ambassadors was bittersweet, and I am thankful Dalton and I got to finish our year where it started.

How do you feel you made a difference as a K-State Student Ambassador?

I feel as though Dalton and I made the largest impact through our passion and excitement that we were able to communicate with our peers. Because we both deeply loved and cared about serving as the ambassadors, it would naturally come up in conversation with our friends, and we were able to easily promote the Alumni Association and the programs they provide for students. This helped to improve student engagement and interest in the ambassador program, as well as overall pride for the university. 

What advice would you give the 2026 K-State Student Ambassadors?

My advice would be to appreciate each opportunity you have to wear your purple jacket! The year goes by so quickly, and it seems as though just yesterday Dalton and I were just standing on the field during the Homecoming game finding out we were selected. As the year goes on, attending events and meeting with alumni becomes part of the normal routine, so I often had to remind myself that I was living out a goal I had throughout my time at K-State. It is absolutely true that time flies when you are having fun, so try and soak up every second!

Is there anything you wish you would have known at the beginning of your term?

I wish I could tell myself now the way that the K-State family would embrace and support us. Before my first few events, I was so apprehensive about being able to effectively communicate the impact K-State has had on my college experience, because it has meant so much to me. I quickly realized that members of the K-State community will support other K-Staters no matter what. Throughout my term I have created relationships both personally and professionally that I know will last for a lifetime, and I could not be more grateful!

Dalton Simmer

In one word, how would you describe your experience as a K-State Student Ambassador?

Opportunity.

Serving as a K-State Student Ambassador was an opportunity that shaped my college experience in ways I did not anticipate. It allowed me to represent the university beyond campus and engage with alumni, prospective students and families across the state and country. Through this role, I grew more confident in telling my story and advocating for K-State. Each event pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and develop as a leader. It is an experience that will continue to influence me long after graduation.

What surprised you the most about your experience?

What surprised me most was how impactful everyday conversations could be. Some of the most meaningful moments came from brief interactions rather than formal speaking roles. I also gained a new appreciation for the work of the Alumni Association and the intentional effort behind each event. Seeing the coordination and care that goes into maintaining K-State’s connections was eye-opening. It deepened my understanding of what it truly means to serve the university.

Do you have a favorite event you attended?

Two events stand out as favorites from my time as a Student Ambassador. Serving as the student keynote speaker at the Wabash CannonBall in Denver was a defining moment and a chance to represent K-State on a large stage. Speaking in front of alumni who share such deep pride in the university was both humbling and energizing. Another highlight was returning home to Hiawatha to help host an alumni event. That experience felt full circle and reinforced the lasting impact of the K-State community.

How do you feel you made a difference as a K-State Student Ambassador?

As I prepare to conclude my college career in May, I feel confident in the effort I put into leaving a positive impact. I focused on being approachable, prepared and genuine at every event. Whether engaging with alumni or welcoming prospective students, I aimed to represent K-State with pride and professionalism. I believe those interactions helped strengthen relationships and create meaningful connections. Even small moments had the potential to leave a lasting impression.

What advice would you give the 2026 K-State Student Ambassadors?

My advice is to say yes to opportunities and be fully present when you do. Some of the most impactful experiences come from events you do not expect to stand out. Take time to listen to the stories of the people you meet and learn from them. Lean on your co-ambassador and the Alumni Association staff throughout the year. The more intentional you are, the more rewarding the experience will be.

Is there anything you wish you would have known at the beginning of your term?

I wish I had known how quickly the year would go by. It is easy to focus on schedules and responsibilities instead of appreciating the moments themselves. Looking back, the conversations and relationships stand out far more than the events on the calendar. I also wish I had trusted myself earlier in the role. This experience is truly unique, and it deserves to be fully appreciated in the moment.