We are looking for volunteers to take part in our International Buddy scheme for 2025/26

• Are you interested in meeting new international students and helping them settle into life at Lancaster?
• Are you approachable and understanding?
• Are you an international student yourself and/or keen to help others settle at Lancaster?
• Would you like to be a buddy to new international students this year?

About our International Buddy Programme and why we need your support

Adjusting to a new cultural environment can be exciting and challenging. New international students at Lancaster University often have a lot of questions and concerns during their first weeks on campus. This is why we are excited to resume our International Buddy Programme during the next academic year. 😊

We want to promote individual connections between current students and new international students, build a globally minded community here in Furness College, offer peer support in finding ways to be actively involved in campus life and Furness socials, encourage sharing of cultures, and hopefully form friendships that will last a lifetime.

Why become a Buddy?

• Be a cultural ambassador to new international students
• Gain insight on different cultural values and world views
• Join our global community
• Make global friendships
• Receive 10 points towards your Lancaster Award and enhance your CV

Responsibilities:

• Contacting the assigned buddies before their arrival via email and provide information about campus life at Lancaster University
• Meeting up with the assigned buddies a couple of times a week initially to help them settle in and give them individual help (in person if permitted or online)

Qualifications and requirements:

• Current Lancaster University Student
• Complete the required training
• Effective Communication skills
• Sincere interest in helping people
• Respect to religious, political, sexual orientation issues and cultural differences

Application process:

To apply, please complete the registration form by clicking here.

The deadline for applications is 30 September 2025.

We will be in touch later in the summer to confirm arrangements once you’ve registered.

Please note that you will be asked to attend the compulsory Buddy Training Session and Welcome event in October (date to be confirmed).

We welcome applications from ALL our current home and international students, whether you will be living on or off campus.

You can also contact us with any questions at Furnessbuddies@lancaster.ac.uk

Lyndsey Spiers, International Buddy Co-ordinator, Furness College