Not even a frigid Iowa winter can take the shine out of these STARS.

The Student Admissions Representatives, who volunteer to provide numerous services to prospective students and families through the Office of Admissions, have given campus tours in the snow, on the ice and in the fiercest of Iowa winds.

“I’m always impressed by the STARS because they volunteer to show up in rain, snow, sleet – whatever the weather is,” said Sophia Magill, enrollment services adviser for the Office of Admissions.

Not only do they show up to share information with potential future students of Iowa State, but they are “incredible ambassadors in spite of weather circumstances,” Magill said.

“This has easily been the coldest winter we’ve had to deal with as STARS,” said Chris Anderson, senior in psychology and two-year veteran of the organization.

The STARS learn through specific training to be prepared, flexible and well-equipped to meet any needs that university guests have, Magill said.

“We have had families comment about the cold weather, but it’s never dwelled on because we try our best to accommodate them as much as possible,” said Sarah Johnson, junior in accounting and STARS veteran since January.

Examples of helping guests on a campus tour include stopping inside buildings, warning people about ice and walking slower, Johnson said.

When some students are staying indoors to enjoy the warmth, the STARS are “showing their love for Iowa State by giving back to the university in this way,” Chapman said.

Anderson said guests are upbeat even though they do get cold.

Prospective students and families expect the freezing temperatures, but they have asked if it was always this cold on campus, Johnson said.

Kristin Chapman, program coordinator for the Office of Admissions, said the STARS also make sure they have plenty of hot chocolate, coffee and treats available to keep the guests stay warm.

“You are representing Iowa State, and the impression you give them is the impression of Iowa State that they will go home with,” said Johnson.

Anderson will graduate in May, and he said he will remember STARS as one of his most memorable experiences as a student.

“I love Iowa State and getting the chance to brag about it as much as possible,” said Anderson, who serves on the executive council of the 75 member volunteer organization.

Johnson has had similarly memorable experiences.

“I’ve learned a lot about Iowa State that I didn’t know before, and it makes me appreciate Iowa State even more,” Johnson said.

Even though the STARS have a great impact on what guests see of Iowa State, they are only one glimpse of the big picture.

“We are so thankful for the students on campus that pass by because they provide what Iowa State University is really like, and they add vitality to what the STARS say by their friendliness as they walk by,” Magill said.