Find your first friend in Coimbra, Find your Buddy! 
Moving to a new country can be exciting yet overwhelming. That’s where the Buddy Programme steps in!
 

WHAT IS THE BUDDY PROGRAMME?

This initiative connects international students with local volunteers who act as their "Buddies", offering guidance, support, and friendship. Whether it’s navigating university life, discovering the city, or sharing cultural experiences, the Buddy Programme ensures every student feels at home in Coimbra.

This initiative is designed to help international students feel more at home and integrate smoothly into university life at Universidade de Coimbra (UC), Politécnico de Coimbra (IPC), Instituto Superior Miguel Torga (ISMT), Escola Universitária Vasco da Gama (EUVG) and Escola Superior de Enfermagem de Coimbra (ESEnfC).
 

WHY JOIN THE BUDDY PROGRAMME?

 - Feel welcomed and supported from your first days in Coimbra.
 - Get help with practicalities like public transport, housing, and university life.
 - Discover Portuguese culture and local hotspots through a local’s perspective.
 - Build friendships and share your culture in a meaningful exchange.
 

HOW DOES IT WORK?

1. Register in the Papaya App to join the Buddy Programme.
    If you're an International student select 'I need a Buddy!'
    If you're a Local student select 'I want to be a Local Buddy!'
2. Answer a short questionnaire about your interests.
3. We find you a Match.
    Based on your preferences and personality, we pair you with a Buddy.
4. Meet Your Buddy!
    Once matched, you’ll receive an email with your Buddy's information. Don't be shy! Send them a message!

 

 

FOR LOCAL STUDENTS:

Have you ever traveled alone to a foreign place where everything felt unfamiliar?
Have you ever felt lost without friends or family by your side?

Now imagine being an international student, navigating a new country, a different language, and an unfamiliar culture—all on your own. They’re just like you, but far from home, and they don’t know anyone in Portugal. That’s where YOU come in. You can be the friend who makes their experience unforgettable and helps them feel at home!

Why you should be a Local Buddy?

 - Meet people from around the world and practice new languages.
 - Rediscover Coimbra through fresh eyes and share its beauty.
 - Develop skills like communication, adaptability, and cultural awareness.
 - Create lasting connections and enjoy unique social opportunities.

What can you do for your Buddy?

 - Reach out before their arrival and help them out with their questions.
 - Help them settle in (Maybe pick them up at the station or help with getting to their accommodation).
 - Show them how to use public transport and tell them your favourite places in Coimbra.
 - Assist with their first shopping trip and settling in.
 - Be there throughout the semester, offering guidance and friendship.


If you have any questions about the Buddy Programme, email project-manager@esncoimbra.org

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