A new country, unfamiliar surroundings and lots of practical questions: finding your feet can be a challenge, especially at the start of your studies abroad. This is where the Buddy Programme run by the International Office at TU Bergakademie Freiberg comes in. Experienced students support new international arrivals, help them settle in, offer practical advice on everyday student life and make it easier for them to get started with life and studies in Freiberg.

“Interest in the Buddy Programme remains high. Around 170 international students have already signed up for the current winter semester and are being supported by a total of 76 registered buddies,” reports Marcus Dietrich, coordinator of the Buddy Programme at the International Office. “We are delighted with the commitment shown by our student volunteers. They play a vital role in ensuring that international students feel welcome right from the start.”

Improved matching for faster pairings

The programme itself has also been further developed: a technical overhaul of internal processes has optimised the matching system. This means that international students and suitable buddies can now be matched more quickly. This not only simplifies internal organisation, but also enables prompt contact and support even before or immediately after arrival in Freiberg.

The commitment is also rewarding for the buddies themselves: they get to know students from different countries and cultures, forge international connections and gain valuable intercultural experience. After their time as a buddy, they can also receive an official certificate of participation from the International Office upon request.

A culture of welcome in practice at TUBAF

The Buddy Programme has now become an integral part of the culture of welcome at TU Bergakademie Freiberg. It promotes personal interaction between international and German students and helps ensure that initial contacts can develop into long-term friendships and international networks.

“The Buddy Programme demonstrates in a very practical way how important personal commitment is for an open and international university. Our buddies not only help with organisational matters, but also ensure that international students settle in more quickly and feel welcome in Freiberg.” (Dr Julia Sishchuk, Director of the International Office)