Here are some examples of how a Welcome Buddy may support an Incoming Buddy: 

• correspondence with the Incoming Buddy prior to arrival via e-mail
• picking up from the airport/train station on arrival
• show the Incoming Buddy places in Hamburg (city tour) and on campus (e.g. where is the regional computer center, the library or the refectory, the academic office)
• Assistance with administrative procedures (e.g., registering with the Residents’ Registration Office, signing a lease)
• Help with opening a bank account, getting health insurance, buying a cell phone, etc.
• Support in settling into life in Hamburg (e.g., shopping options, getting around using the HVV or CityBike), as well as cultural exchange and sharing experiences from living abroad

These are not your responsibilities as a Welcome Buddy:

• find accommodation for your Buddy
• support the visa application process
• give information on applying and matriculating at the University of Hamburg
• provide information on study programs

Of course we do not expect you to support your Buddy fulltime. It is for you to decide if and how much you involve your Buddy into your everyday life. You will not become an advisor on general questions on study and life. Whenever you feel overwhelmed, do not hesitate to contact us for further support.

Click here to register as a Welcome Buddy

• CIC (Certificate Intercultural Competence): The Buddy Program can be approved as one part of the CIC (Certificate Intercultural Competence). You will receive an individual certificate for extracurricular activities or voluntary work and can use it for your application for a comprehensive Certificate Intercultural Competence.
• PIASTA: For details about the certifcate and more, check the offers of the PIASTA programm.
• Intercultural exchange with the international student and friendships.
• Both Incoming and Welcome Buddies have the opportunity to improve their own foreign language skills and teach their Buddy their native language.

Who can apply as a Welcome Buddy?
All enrolled students in the MIN Faculty can sign up to be a Welcome Buddy to help new international MIN students (including exchange and program students) settle into life in Hamburg.

How can I apply as a Welcome Buddy?
Students currently enrolled at MIN faculty registration: For when you have been in Hamburg for some time and want to welcome an international student.

Doctoral researchers can sign up for our separate Buddy Program for doctoral researchers.