Who are Buddies?
Buddies are sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are assigned to work with new freshmen or transfer students of the same cultural and/or ethnic background. Students who have attended a cumulative of 2.00 or better are invited to become buddies.
What are the Responsibilities of A Buddy?
Buddies are expected to participate in training and attend the orientation program specifically designed for their new student(s). Periodic contact (calls, visits, notes, lunch and birthday) throughout the semester is strongly encouraged. Additionally, students selected to serve as Buddies must be committed to the success of the program and at the same time exemplify a realistic and positive attitude regarding the College.
Why should I consider the challenge?
As you know, the first year is often the most significant in determining whether one stays or leaves college. Students must make the necessary adjustments to balance academic, personal, cultural, emotional and sometimes, work experiences. Though often least expressed “homesickness” and the need to “belong” are often the greatest challenges in making the transition to college. A Buddy can help make the transition a smooth one.
Buddies can become significant people to the new student(s) assigned to them by offering encouragement, advice, personal attention and information regarding on-off-campus resources. The challenges is to help new students become acclimated to college life and confident of their college experience.
How much time is involved?
The amount of time required will be determined by your schedule and the schedule of your assigned student(s). Ideally, periodic contact (minimally once or twice a month) with students usually helps to establish a significant and long term relationship.
When can I begin?
Efforts are made to assign buddies to new students at least one month prior to the start of the Fall semester. One can begin serving as a Buddy as soon as an assignment is made.
International Buddy Application Form Shepherd University — Please return filled form to Dr. Kelly Hart at klhart@shepherd.edu.