International Student Ambassador Reflection – Patrick Luke Dela Torre

Hello everyone, my name is Patrick Luke Dela Torre, and I am fortunate enough to have been selected as one of the International Student Ambassadors for the 2024-2025 year. I am a second-year student in the Application Development and Delivery Program. Since I am in my second year, I have encountered many new experiences that I would like to share with new students who are also leaving their home countries to study here in Canada. I was interested in becoming an ambassador because I wanted to be the voice of the Filipino community at RRC Polytech, advocating for their concerns and offering advice on how to navigate the new environment we are living in. I wanted to become someone who can be helpful to anyone in need and be accommodating to all kinds of people, as RRC Polytech is such a diverse place.

Being part of this program has helped me become more confident in my ability to talk to people, interact with them, and lead small activities or just engage in general conversations. I have spoken with many people at the school, which has helped me practice my communication and networking skills. I have also had the opportunity to lead a group of students in fun activities such as Zoo Lights, the Santa Parade, and more. As an International Student Ambassador, I have had several memorable experiences, such as watching a Jets game live (a must-do for anyone who wants to see how passionate the people of Winnipeg are), participating in a recorded panel interview for new students enrolling at RRC Polytech, teaching people how to do origami, and inviting others to join a raffle for a chance to win Winnipeg Jets tickets during International Education Week. I have had a lot of fun as part of the program, and the people involved have helped me become a better version of myself. I would also like to thank Parmeet Ghatoaura and Yuko Sakurai, the leaders of the program, for helping me and all the ambassadors assist new students in embracing the culture here in Canada.

Some may ask, “Why should I become an ambassador?” One thing I can tell you is that networking is one of the best ways to prepare for the Canadian culture ahead. And what better way to connect with people across the campus than through the International Student Ambassador Program? You will lead students in fun activities, get to know them, and build connections along the way. Being an ambassador may seem daunting to some, but with the right guidance and support from the CIEGP team, you will be able to excel in your role. You will develop leadership skills and practice communication to create a better environment—not just at RRC Polytech, but wherever you go in the future. This program helps build leaders and advocates for all international students to admire and follow.

As my term as an ambassador comes to an end, I hope I have made a positive impact on those who were with me along the way—my fellow ambassadors, the leaders of the program, and the students we were able to connect with. I wish all of you success in whatever the future holds. I truly appreciated and cherished my time as an ambassador, and I hope the next ambassador can create an even better and more inclusive community at RRC Polytech than we have tried to build. Please don’t hesitate to reach out or say hi if you see me at the Exchange District Campus. Have a great summer break, and I look forward to seeing you all next term!