The SIOP Annual Conference can be an overwhelming experience, particularly for those who are new to the event and aren’t quite sure where to start or how to make the most of the experience and the opportunities it offers.
Since 2010, the SIOP Ambassador Program has sought to make the experience for conference newcomers less overwhelming by connecting our newest attendees with previous, and often seasoned, conference goers who are willing to provide advice and insight, share what they’ve learned, and serve as a mentor through the conference.
Participating as a Newcomer can not only help you navigate the conference but can also help you build connections and grow your network with other first-time conference goers as well as seasoned attendees.
Serving as an Ambassador is a relatively short time commitment that can have a tremendous impact on first-time SIOP attendees, including providing a positive introduction to the SIOP community and increasing the chances of retention and subsequent conference participation over time.
Newcomers come together at the Newcomer Reception to network and celebrate during the Annual Conference.
Here’s what some past newcomers and ambassadors have to say about their participation in the SIOP Ambassador Program:
"Getting to speak with my ambassador prior to the conference helped me get a better idea of what to expect."
- Dehlia Mahoney, Graduate Student at Montclair State University -
"I have been an ambassador since this program started - I just like helping others. And I just really LOVE SIOP, so I like to spread the joy."
- Nicholas Salter, Assistant Professor at Hofstra University -
"My Ambassador did an excellent job of preparing me for how to navigate the conference."
- Sarah Keen, Graduate Student at the University of Maryland - College Park & Technical Director at the Department of Defense -
"I participated as a Newcomer and found the program really helpful, so I'm happy to be able to give back by serving as an ambassador."
- Jensen Mecca, Senior Associate at Modern Hire -
Thanks again to all our past SIOP ambassadors who supported their newcomers' SIOP journey!
Program Requirements
| Ambassadors | Newcomers | Program Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| ✔︎ | ✔︎ | Registered for the 2025 SIOP Annual Conference |
| ✔︎ | Has already attended at least one SIOP Annual Conference | |
| ✔︎ | Attending the SIOP Annual Conference for the first time | |
| ✔︎ | ✔︎ | Agree to follow all program expectations |
| ✔︎ | ✔︎ | Respond to communications and schedule time to meet with your group |
| ✔︎ | Reach out to your Ambassador to initiate communication | |
| ✔︎ | ✔︎ | Connect by email, phone, or Zoom at least once before the conference |
| ✔︎ | ✔︎ | Meet at least once during the conference through an in-person, virtual, or hybrid check-in |
Ready to Sign Up?
Anyone wanting to participate as an Ambassador or Newcomer can sign up when you register for the 2025 SIOP Annual Conference.
We encourage everyone from graduate students who are more advanced in their programs, recent graduates in academic or applied roles, or seasoned conference attendees to consider making a first-time Annual Conference attendee feel welcome.
