Students
Tuition Fee
Not Available
Start Date
Not Available
Medium of studying
Not Available
Duration
Not Available
Details
Program Details
Degree
Courses
Major
Cultural Studies | Social Work and Counselling
Area of study
Social Sciences | Education
Course Language
English
About Program

Program Overview


UL Global Buddy Programme

The University of Limerick International Buddy Programme is an initiative that matches incoming international students from all over the world with a student volunteer from UL based on similar interests.


Becoming a UL Buddy

Benefits of being a Buddy:


  • A chance to practise your language skills
  • Make international connections for the future
  • Learn about new cultures while making new friends
  • Help students from your own academic background
  • Develop your communication skills
  • A great addition to your CV
  • Earn volunteer hours towards the President's Volunteer Award which is displayed on your transcript

Responsibilities of a Buddy:


  • Be a friendly and welcoming face to 3 or 4 new buddies.
  • Commit 12 – 20 hours a semester to your Buddies and the programme.
  • Make contact via email with your international Buddies a few weeks in advance of the new term.
  • Answer queries, provide information on the University and the locality on an on-going basis, as you would with your friends.
  • Initiate a meeting with your international Buddies upon their arrival in Limerick.
  • Take part in the Buddy events organised by UL Global.
  • Collect tickets on behalf of your Buddies for events.

How Long Am I a Buddy For?

  • The programme runs for the semester only, though you and your student buddies may wish to extend this period.
  • The time you invest will vary.
  • We ask for a semester long commitment, however your role as a UL volunteer is not meant to take any considerable time away from your own studies, student job, etc.

Requirements

To become a UL Buddy Volunteer you must:


  • Be a fully registered student for the entirety of the semester
  • Have spent at least one semester on campus

Events

Each semester, UL Global organises a number of events for you and your buddies to attend. By signing up for the Buddy Programme, you have been added to our mailing list and will be notified of all events we have planned.


Testimonials

There is little that I didn't gain from the Buddy Programme. Not only did I get the opportunity to meet an abundance of new people from all around the world, but I also got to reconnect with Limerick and learn more about it and enjoy its heritage. I would advise absolutely anyone who has to opportunity, to join the Buddy Programme. It benefited me so much in my final year of college.


Alex, Buddy Volunteer studying Bachelor of Arts


The International Buddy Programme 2021 at UL was an opportunity where I believed I could contribute something to the college. As part of the programme, I was given three buddies who were from three different countries. The programme also gave an opportunity to learn more about the campus, various programmes and events offered by UL and the city of Limerick. This came in handy in guiding them and giving some suggestions on some queries. We got along well and also did some activities together, the highlight being the visit to King John's Castle. Overall, it was an enriching experience for me and my buddies. It is a wonderful opportunity provided by UL to freshers to break the ice and help them settle in.


Joe Joseph, MA International Studies 2022


See More