At first hand: Start successfully with the Buddy Programme
What is the Buddy programme?
The Buddy programme is a meeting place for people from all over the world studying at Fulda University of Applied Sciences. It offers international students, who are new to the university and the city, the opportunity to get to know experienced students – the buddies. The Buddy programme team matches buddy pairs based on interests and courses of study. When they are matched, they meet throughout the semester, help each other out, and can participate in buddy activities. This is a great way for both sides to meet new people, make friends, improve language skills and most of all: to have a lot of fun! The participation in the Buddy programme is of course free of charge.At the end of the semester we offer a volunteer certificate to the "experienced buddies".
If you have any further questions, please email us at: buddyprogramm@hs-fulda.de
Impressions from the Buddy programme
Canoeing on the Fulda river
Relaxed canoeing across the Fulda and enjoying the summer – that's on the agenda for the summer semester, pandemic events permitting. If you are up for an afternoon in nature while exchanging ideas with people from all over, make sure to sign up for this activity.
Trip to the Rhön mountains
During the summer semester we're planning a day excursion to our beautiful Rhön mountains to enjoy nature and the views, to nwatch the gliding planes on Wasserkuppe or to race downhill on the summer toboggan. Hopefully you'll join us for the trip!
What can I expect from my buddy?
Your buddy is there to help you, to answer your questions and to help you deal with any problems that may arise during your first weeks and months at the University. He or she will be there for you during the whole first semester. He or she will be your gateway to the information you need and you will have an opportunity to learn about German culture and to make friends with Germans.
Many of our experienced buddies have already lived and/or studied abroad and know what it feels like at the beginning of university life. They also understand the typical kinds of difficulties that may occur. Some buddies come from other countries themselves and have first-hand experience of making the transition to life in another country.
Who can join the programme?
You are invited to register for the programme if you are preparatory programme participant, first-semester student, exchange student or refugee who
- comes from a country other than Germany
- has not previously studied at Fulda University
- has already been admitted to study at Fulda University in the new semester
Will there be a chance to meet other students and their buddies?
During the semester the International Office will normally arrange some meetings and activities for members of the Buddy Programme. These occasions are a great way of meeting other programme participants. We look forward to seeing you there!
What do I need to bear in mind?
Your buddies are volunteers who are interested in meeting people from different countries and sharing their culture. In return, you should show a real interest in your buddy's way of life and be appreciative of what s/he is doing for you. Be open. Ask questions. Share information about your culture.
Your buddy is not a service assistant or a substitute teacher. You might both enjoy practicing your language skills with each other but you should not expect your buddy to teach you German or write your term paper.
How can I join the Buddy Programme?
To join the Buddy Progrmme, please complete the online registration below. If you have troubles doing so, you can also fill in the pdf.- registration form and send it to buddyprogramm(at)hs-fulda.de as early as possible.
I have some more questions. Who can help?
If you have any further questions about the Buddy Programme, please do not hesitate to contact the coordinator in the International Office.
