Get a Buddy
What is the buddy scheme?
buddy(su) is a peer-support scheme designed to help those new to UEA settle in quickly and meet like-minded people. Everyone’s experience of university is different, and our trained buddies are here to help by being a friendly face, share their experiences and help you get the most out of university life. Buddies can help by sharing their tips and experience about UEA and Norwich from helping with your timetable to helping you join a new club or society. After you arrive at UEA, you can meet up regularly on a 121 basis or get involved with our regular events throughout the year.
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!
What happens when I sign up to buddy(su)?
Once we are able to match you with a buddy, you will receive an email from them with their introduction and opportunity to meet and discuss any particular issues you have or just to chat! It is expected that buddies will meet up on campus in the first week of term. In that first meeting, you will both agree on how often you meet, when and where and what you plan to get out of it. After that, you will have access to staff support to ensure you both get the most out of this scheme. If you are signing up during the academic semester, you will be matched as soon as possible.
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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!
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Our buddy volunteers are trained to ensure they are well equipped to support new students to settle in. This training includes having a knowledge of campus support services, getting involved with uea(su) sports clubs and societies, “life hacks” created for and by UEA students, active listening skills, confidentiality, and safeguarding. If you are unhappy with your buddy, you can request to be re-matched with someone else by emailing buddy.su@uea.ac.uk.