Note; Applications for the 2017 Spring Term has now closed, see here to apply for the Buddy Scheme 2017/2018!

The aim of the scheme is to help new students settle in at Sussex by putting them in contact with a student who is already here.

Adele, the Students’ Union Activities Officer recommends the scheme:

“The Buddy Scheme is one of the Students’ Union’s most amazing initiative! I joined it in my first year because, as an international student, I found settling in a British university quite challenging and it is probably one of the best decision I could have made, the Buddy Scheme really helped. I am still friends with one of my buddies from first year today.”

The Buddy Scheme is open all year round, encouraging those who may need a little extra support throughout the year to join and to treat everyone to a series of trips, activities and events. We work with Schools and departments at the University including Active US and student societies. It really is an exciting thing to be a part of either as a new student or as a Buddy Scheme Volunteer. Buddy Scheme members are treated to interesting and fun events, over the past year these have included Bouldering (courtesy of Active US), cocktail making in Brighton, a quick game at Laserzone, ice skating at the Pavilion, to larger trips to see The Lion King or the Harry Potter Studios tour, in collaboration with our friends at the International Student Support Team.

Putting aside the exciting things on offer, the normal day to day life of meeting with your buddy is hugely beneficial; getting to know someone you may not have had a chance to otherwise, experiencing Sussex through a newcomer’s eyes put things in a different perspective, and the possibility of making a lifelong friend. Buddy Scheme Volunteers really do make a difference.

Roos Bruggink volunteered as a buddy throughout her second year and loved the experience:

“Being a buddy had many positives for me, I was able to help three first year students settle into university and socialise with people whom I would otherwise never have met. I enjoyed meeting up every few weeks, when we could all find the time, for a cup of coffee and a chat. I have definitely made friends for life through the scheme and would urge anyone who is thinking of joining to go for it!”

For more information about the Buddy Scheme, visit their webpage www.buddyscheme.com and sign up at www.buddyscheme.com/apply