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Massachusetts Orchid Society


MOS Horticultural Ambassadors

Cultivating the Next Generation of Botanical Leaders


Are you a student aged 15–25 with a passion for plants, botany, biology or conservation? The Massachusetts Orchid Society (MOS) Horticultural Ambassadors program pairs passionate young growers with expert mentors for a year of hands-on learning, skill-building, and immersion in the orchid community.  From hands-on technical training to national professional access, we give you the tools, guidance, and portfolio-building experience needed to stand out in academic and scientific careers. 

Ready to apply? Applications are accepted from April 15 to September 15th.

Email us at youthambassadors@massorchid.org with questions, applications, or nominations from teachers and counselors.

MOS Horticultural Ambassadors Program application

MOS Youth Sponsorship Program safety rules

What You Receive
As an MOS Ambassador, all program costs are fully covered:
  • Dual Professional Memberships: Full membership to both the Massachusetts Orchid Society and the American Orchid Society (AOS).
  • Exclusive Scientific Access: Unlimited digital access to OrchidPro and the full ORCHIDS Magazine archive for botanical research.
  • Personal 1-on-1 Mentorship: Pairing with an experienced local MOS mentor for year-round guidance, plant care troubleshooting, and industry networking.
  • Ambassador Starter Kit: Your very own orchid and essential growing supplies to kickstart your collection.
Who Should Apply?
We are looking for dedicated students each year who meet the following criteria:
  • Aged 15–25
  • Located in the Greater Boston area
  • Demonstrated interest in botany, biology, plant science, agriculture, conservation, or scientific research
  • Ready to commit to monthly mentor check-ins and society events
No prior orchid-growing experience required, just curiosity and commitment! We provide the training, plants, and tools.

Technical Skills Covered

  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM) & sterile culture techniques

  • Microclimate management & environmental control

  • Plant physiology, taxonomy, and research using OrchidPro

  • Show staging, grooming, and competitive exhibit standards

Portfolio Boosters

  • Formal Credentials: Earn an official MOS Horticultural Ambassador Certificate upon completion.
  • Leadership Experience: Complete an internship-equivalent project, such as publishing an article in the MOS newsletter, assisting with conservation research, and volunteering at our annual orchid show.
  • Expert Endorsements: Eligible Ambassadors can request letters of recommendation from their mentor or MOS board members for college or job applications.



A Year in the Life of an Ambassador
Our program runs on a school-year schedule:

  • Spring: Application, selection, and initial pairing with your local mentor

  • Summer: Welcome picnic, starter kit delivery, and summer growing check-ins

  • Fall: Leadership project kickoff, hands-on preparation and volunteering at the annual MOS Show in November

  • Winter: Learning about orchid taxonomy and winter plant physiology, and working on your capstone leadership project

  • Spring Graduation: Present your project, receive your formal certificate, and take the next step in your plant-growing journey!


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