Insights into the Buddy Program: Three Buddies Share Their Experiences (WS 25/26)
Our buddies support international students in settling into life in Germany and navigating everyday academic life. Three of them Eve, Lu, and Lenny share their experiences, highlights, and motivations below.
Eve:
What does a typical contact or meeting with your international buddy look like?
The contact was very straightforward and personal. I met with my buddies from Indonesia one Sunday; we went to McDonald’s together, played card games, ate, and talked. I also spent an afternoon with my buddy partner from Vietnam – we went out to eat, took a walk, and I accompanied her to the bus afterward. Although there were only a few meetings, they all took place in a very pleasant atmosphere.
In which situations were you particularly able to help your buddy?
I was mainly able to help with organizational matters, such as questions about health insurance, public transport subscriptions, and finding accommodation before arriving in Germany. I also gave my Indonesian buddies travel tips. Even though there were not many concrete requests for help overall, I was always available and offered my support.
What makes working with international students particularly exciting for you?
What I find especially exciting is the cultural exchange. You quickly notice how differently people are shaped by their cultures, which greatly broadens your own perspective. Even short encounters can be very enriching and make the Buddy Program a valuable experience for me.
Lu:
Would you recommend the Buddy Program to other students, and why?
Definitely. The Buddy Program is a great opportunity to connect with students from other countries and cultures and to gain new perspectives. The exchange is open, uncomplicated, and simply enjoyable.
Who is the Buddy Program particularly suitable for?
Especially for students who are planning to study abroad themselves. You can get to know international students, ask direct questions, and gain authentic insights into other higher education systems and ways of life.
What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a buddy?
Just do it! It is very relaxed, the international students are extremely friendly and open, and along the way, new friendships and exciting insights into other cultures naturally develop.
Lenny:
Why did you decide to become a buddy?
I wanted to make it easier for international students to start life in a new country and help them find their way. It was also a good opportunity for me to improve my English and gain new experiences.
What do you like most about your role as a buddy?
What I enjoy most is introducing exchange students to German culture, forming new friendships, and at the same time learning a lot about other cultures myself.
What has been your most memorable experience with your international students so far?
One highlight was when we cooked a traditional dish from both of our home countries together and then shared the meal – a perfect example of how cultural exchange can bring people together.
