Like many things these day, it started on Facebook… let’s just say, I am one of those rather impulsive people who join interesting group without any real commitment to actually attend events.
It was the opposite with the LaserZone event organised by the Sussex Buddy Scheme probably because I am a great fan of this very fun team game. In hindsight, I think I was on a mission to find out what this scheme was all about and see these so-called ‘buddies’.
A group of twenty or so gung-ho, trigger-happy buddies gathered at the Brighton LaserZone on the day. Split into two teams, each player armed with a Phasor, we made a mad dash into the dimly lit zone- a labyrinth complete with swirling smoke effect, lights, and eerie sound effects.
Lazerzone
Taking cover, destroying bases, suicide missions, zapping then getting zapped in return. As Fireball, I was on a rampage zapping ‘buddies’ and ‘baddies’ with equal gusto.. “live, die, repeat”- Tom Cruise would be jealous!
It was a spectacle of chaos totally devoid of stratagem and honour, everyone in it for personal glory. Taunting opposing players after a successful ambush only to get zapped in the back whilst doing your celebratory whoop…
And then it was all over and we enjoyed a good moment of banter teasing each other as we compared scores. Everyone was happy, there was a good vibe in the air- the kind you get when people are truly having fun.
Scorecard
Making the decision to study overseas can be a daunting prospect- a new culture, a new country, making new friends, etc. The Buddy Scheme helps a great deal with this transition by helping ease new students into their new environment.
My experience has allowed me to better understand the buddy scheme managed by the lovely Jane and Natalie. From initial skepticism, I came out very impressed by these buddies who selflessly make themselves available to help new students adjust quickly and easily into university life more quickly than they would themselves.
For current students, with the world now a global village, the scheme is an excellent opportunity to make friends from different countries. After all university is about experiences and forming lasting relationships not just bagging a degree.
As a result of this positive experience, I have been involved in a webinar for offer holders to raise awareness of the Scheme and encourage new students to sign-up prior to joining Sussex. Find out more about the Buddy Scheme and chat with the lovely Natalie and Jane to find out more.
No worries if LaserZone is not your cup of tea, the Scheme organises many fun events to connect current students with new students. You only need to complete a form to be paired with a Sussex buddy prior to arrival at the University.
A great evening with lovely people. As I made my way home, phone in hand instead of my beloved Phasor, I only wished there was such a scheme at my own university when I first came to the UK as an international student.
The Buddy Scheme on Facebook
Article written by a non-student
Tosin is an International Officer at the University of Sussex
Disclaimer: the author’s views are independent of the Sussex Buddy Scheme
