What is the buddy scheme?

Settling into university can be overwhelming for a lot of students – lectures in places that you’re not entirely sure where they are, new faces everywhere you turn and for many this will be the first time you are living away from home. That’s where buddy(su) comes in!

buddy(su) is a peer-support scheme designed to help students feel supported with life at UEA. buddy(su) matches students with volunteers who have been at the university for at least a year and who are able to offer advice and friendship, helping new students navigate through the new challenges of university life.

What happens when I sign up to buddy(su)?

Once matched with your buddy(su) volunteer, you will receive an email from them with their introduction and have the chance to talk about any issues you have, or just to chat! Your buddy(su) volunteer will then meet up with you on campus in the first week of term, also known as Welcome Week.

During your meet-up, you will both agree on how often to meet, when and where and what you hope to get out of being part of the scheme. After this, you will have access to staff support to ensure you both get the most out of the services buddy(su) offers.

Who are the buddy(su) volunteers?

Our buddy(su) volunteers are students who have been at the university for at least a year, trained to ensure they are well equipped to support new students to settle in. This training includes having a knowledge of campus support services and social opportunities, active listening skills, confidentiality, and safeguarding. If you are unhappy with your buddy(su) volunteer, you can request to be re-matched with someone else by emailing us.

Is the buddy scheme open to me?

buddy(su) is open to all students, whether you are an undergraduate or postgraduate, mature student or international student. We will aim to match on the preferences outlined in your registration form. So, whether you need practical tips, support with university life or want to meet new people - buddy(su) is here for you.

If you are a continuing student at UEA and feel you would benefit from the support of a buddy(su) volunteer, you are also very welcome to join the scheme.

buddy Beginners Grant

The buddy beginners fund supports new students undertake student led activities. Allowing new students to access up to £25 to cover the cost of joining a club/society or the equipment needed to take part in that activity.

The fund is open to all new student buddy scheme members, with prioritisation for those from Widening Participation backgrounds. You can find out more about the grant via the key information guide. All members will be told via email when the fund application opens!

What are the benefits?

You'll be matched with an experienced student to signpost and answer any questions from how to access the library, to where the best places are to hang out it Norwich!

You'll also be able to apply for our Buddy Society Grant fund - we will pay for your first year Society membership if you want to get involved in a Society of your choice! This grant is there to support you finding your tribe, pushing you out of your comfort zone and giving you an opportunity to find or continue your passion.

Interested in this grant? Full information and how to apply click here