Introducing Global Buddies International peer mentor scheme piloted in Faculty of Social Sciences 50 international students supported New volunteer opportunity Brand new strand of work for SU

Why was it successful? 4 events 10 weeks of support Ismail’s contacts Becca VDS’ knowledge Pending insight evaluation but very positive anecdotal feedback Key part of Ismail’s manifesto met & it’s emerged in a few future officers’ too. 5-6 week turnaround (inc. X-mas hols) Ismail v.personally invested

Challenges faced Lack of clear project plan Timing meant we couldn’t establish link between Buddies pre-arrival Training – finding the right balance Not everyone could attend the welcome event Many non-GB students attended welcome event through word of mouth Recruiting mentors last minute Getting international sign-ups for the scheme Jot form knowledge Language barrier China has sensitive servers Working with Officers (v.busy & different set of knowledge) Ownership of future plans – chicken & egg! Coordinating with international office Balancing a ratio of 4:1 mentors to mentees

Learning Points Sit down with IO & faculty to avoid overlap of what we offer Work with IO & faculties to establish earlier contact with international students (impact of data protection changes means these relations are key) Fix jot form / have something ready for Chinese students Reduce the number of information sessions Goody bags – allow more time for marketing Work with sponsorship much sooner Project planning & clear delegation between officers / non-officer staff More training! Give students dates further in advance

Take home messages The Uni’s / SU’s international offer could be better coordinated Embrace the unexpected Make the most of others’ knowledge Team work makes the dream work!

Global Buddies