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Buddy Program
Learning Outcomes
For International Students
To serve as a gateway to American culture and the language through Longwood University students by building lasting and rewarding friendships. Also, to help international students experience the most out of their study abroad experience.
For Longwood University Students
Presenting a friendly way to gain knowledge of other cultures and to appreciate them through the mentoring and friendship of international students visiting Longwood University.
International Students and Buddies at a Baltimore Orioles baseball game
Why participate?
- To add spice and diversity to your group of friends, organization, or club!
- To become more culturally aware further your knowledge and interest of other countries
- To mentor international students pays off. You will experience first hand your buddy improvement of his/her English language skills. Also gives you the opportunity to learn a little about your buddy's language.
- To have a friend in another country to visit! Experiencing the way people really live and interact in the country instead of using a tour guide.
- To help make Longwood University a unique, diverse place to go to school and to experience more than just classes but other cultures first hand!
What can I do with my international buddy?
- Meet for coffee in the café or eat a meal together once or twice a week
- Study together. Many of the international students have more work because they must deal with the language barrier as well. Doing work together will help make the transition easier and is always more fun!
- Take them home. The international students are usually free during break and need places to stay.
- Develop a friendship with them that could potentially last a lifetime
Program Criteria
Getting to know and becoming friends with an international student can be exciting, different, but also a little tough at times. The language barrier can hinder communication between you and your buddy at the beginning, but as you work together you will notice the increase in your partner's vocabulary and willingness to speak.
Therefore, there are some criteria that need to be met, similar to mentoring criteria, to make sure that you will commit to a relationship and work through any language issues there may be. You may find this process a little frustrating, but very rewarding in the end. Some things to think about are listed below:
- Can you be patient and help the international students work through their difficulties with the English language? This may make getting to know your buddy a little bit more difficult and time consuming.
- Are you willing to spend at least 2 hours a week with your international buddy?
- Are you willing to commit yourself to your buddy for one semester or longer (depending on their duration of stay?)
If so, we are excited about your interest in this program and would like you to fill out an application and meet with us! You can be assured that this program will provide many opportunities and benefits for both you and your international buddy!
International Buddy leadership team and Director Calhoun
