Become an international mentor

What is the Buddy programme?

The Buddy Programme connects international and exchange students with current students at Malmö University by organising social events in and around Malmö. It’s a programme designed to help incoming students feel welcome in Malmö, make new friends and to explore Swedish culture.

As a current student you can volunteer to become a mentor and join the Buddy Programme to become incoming students’ buddy. As a mentor you will be one of the first contacts for newly-arrived international students. You will be assigned to a buddy group consisting of other students with previous experience of living and studying in Malmö, other mentors like yourself, and newly-arrived international students. As a buddy you will help the group organise fun activities. 

Each year, Malmö University welcomes around 800 new international students, representing nearly 85 nationalities from all over the world. Sign up to be part of our global student community in one of Sweden’s most diverse cities. 

Who can become a mentor?

We are looking for students who can commit to being a mentor for at least one semester. You are welcome to join no matter what you are studying. We are mainly looking for students who have previous experience of living and/or studying in Sweden. 

What is expected of mentors?

• As a mentor, you will be grouped with other mentors and newly-arrived international students.
• The mentors are responsible for coordinating their groups, planning and participating in at least three activities and supporting their international students, with support from the student coordinators at the International Office.
• Being a mentor means being a guide and friend to students who have little to no prior experience of Malmö and Sweden. Things that might be everyday knowledge for you can be of great value for a new student coming from a different part of the world. Share your best tips and take part in each other’s experiences!
• Activities can range from going grocery shopping together, having a ‘fika’, or going on a day trip to Copenhagen – feel free to get creative!
• You are welcome to plan activities within your own group or arrange a bigger activity together with another buddy group.
• The International Office will also plan some larger activities for all buddy groups to participate in.

The Buddy programme gives you merits

• You will be awarded a certificate for your participation, and hopefully have many new friends by the end of the semester!
• The Buddy Programme can lead to a Certificate of International Merits (CIM).
• It is a great addition to your CV and strengthens your international experience.

Register

Apply to become a mentor