In 2010-11 the University of Stirling Students’ Union in partnership with the School of Management will be launching a new support system for Postgraduate International Students. This programme was born with the belief that making the cultural transition easier and providing ongoing support will enable International Postgraduate students to focus on their intensive course work sooner and will facilitate their academic performance in the long run.

The programme consists of a ‘buddy system’ where each International Student is allocated a buddy, who will be a returning University of Stirling student. The programme sees buddies supporting their peers through 3 stages:

1.       Prior to arrival, through email contact
2.       On arrival, through induction activities
3.       Finally, ongoing support for the rest of the academic year

Social events, meetings and activities are an integral part of this programme, which will hopefully see incoming students being able to make a smoother adjustment to Scottish culture as well as receiving friendly informal support throughout their short but intensive time at the University of Stirling.

If you are interested in taking part, find more information and application form at  http://www.stirlingstudentsunion.com/content/431253/support__development/international_students/postgraduate_buddy_scheme/ and http://www.management.stir.ac.uk/buddyscheme.php

Please also note that there’s an Induction Meeting for Students and their Buddies:
Introduction Meeting - Meet your Buddy! Sunday 12th September 4pm-6pm in the Students Union.
(Please contact Elena Sarra on 01786 467178 or [email protected] with any questions)