2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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!

7. Global Buddies