Posted: October 11, 2024
Tina Omrani (BEng'17)Ìýbrings her passion for Â鶹´«Ã½ and her commitment to supporting international students and alumni to her new role as aÌýglobal ambassador.ÌýAs a representative in Mississauga, Ont., she helped plan and host the latest alumni-led event in Toronto.
When did you begin volunteering at Dal?
It started in 2014. I began as the Council Secretary for the Â鶹´«Ã½ Student Union, where I learned how to communicate well and stay organized. I then became the Council Coordinator and later a member at large for the Â鶹´«Ã½ International Student Association.
Omrani volunteered with the international students association at its International Night in 2014.
What inspired you to become a Dal volunteer?
I wanted to help international students feel welcome. Moving to a new country can be hard, and I thought that by volunteering, I could make it easier for others. I loved the teamwork among volunteers and the positive impact we could have.
Why did you want to become a Dal Global Ambassador and how does it help you stay connected to Â鶹´«Ã½?
It felt like the right next step in my journey. I wanted to share my positive experiences at Â鶹´«Ã½ with more people. This role allows me to promote cultural understanding and highlight the vibrant community at Â鶹´«Ã½.
As a Dal Global Ambassador, I help promote the university's community and strengthen connections among alumni. I'm also connected with my classmates and other Dal alumni through social media. This ongoing involvement ensures my ties to the university continue beyond my time as a student and volunteer.
What have you learned or gained from volunteering at Â鶹´«Ã½? What is the single best experience you have had as a Dal volunteer?
I gained important skills like leadership, teamwork, and event planning. One of my best experiences was organizing the International Night event in 2015, which had more than 400 attendees. Seeing our hard work pay off and the joy it brought to attendees was incredible. It taught me the impact of community involvement and how much we can achieve together.
Omrani (2nd from left) was a member of the Â鶹´«Ã½ International Students Association. She helped celebrate International Night in 2014.
What advice would you give someone considering volunteering for Â鶹´«Ã½?
Jump in with an open mind. I would recommend actively seeking out opportunities that align with your passions. Volunteering at Â鶹´«Ã½ allows you to explore different areas of interest, whether it's event planning, student support, or leadership. Don't hesitate to step outside your comfort zone and try new roles; they’ll help you grow personally and professionally. Also, networking is key—take advantage of the chance to connect with other students, staff, and alumni, as those relationships can lead to lasting friendships and future opportunities.
Omrani graduated in 2017 from the Faculty of Engineering.