Flagship International Buddy Program FAQ

The Flagship International Buddy Program holds paramount significance in fostering a supportive and enriching environment for incoming COAS exchange students. It serves as a vital bridge between their home country and the unfamiliar terrain of the host university. By pairing them with local student buddies, the program ensures a smoother transition, offering practical assistance in navigating administrative processes, such as visa applications and course registrations. Beyond logistical support, the program plays a pivotal role in promoting cultural integration. Through organized events, outings, and language exchange sessions, exchange students can immerse themselves in the local culture, forging connections that transcend geographical borders. Each Flagship Ambassador serves as a Buddy for an incoming international student joining COAS for a full semester as part of our newly developed international partnerships. The Flagship International Buddy Program is an innovative networking opportunity for peer-to-peer student mentoring. The Flagship Buddy Program allows COAS students to experience cross-cultural exchanges, feel the international spirit before going abroad themselves, and nurture an international network in the long term. This sense of belonging and support is instrumental in enhancing the overall exchange experience, contributing to personal growth, global understanding, and lasting international friendships. Ultimately, the program's impact extends far beyond the academic realm, nurturing a sense of community and belonging that resonates long after the exchange period concludes.

Being a Flagship Buddy...

• Provides an opportunity for personal growth and development. It challenges you to enhance your communication skills, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity.
•  Allows you to make a positive impact on someone else's life. You'll have the chance to help an incoming exchange student feel welcomed, supported, and more comfortable in their new environment.
•  Expands your own global network. You'll forge meaningful connections with people from different corners of the world, potentially leading to lifelong friendships and professional opportunities.

Getting a Flagship Buddy...

•  Eases your transition into a new environment. They can provide valuable information about the university, local customs, and practicalities like transportation and accommodation.
•  Offers insights into the local culture, helping you navigate social norms, traditions, and etiquettes. This can be invaluable in avoiding cultural misunderstandings.
•  Introduces you to other students, faculty members, and potentially even professionals in your field of interest, which can be beneficial for your future career.
• Gives you a confidant, offering a listening ear and advice on dealing with any homesickness or adjustment difficulties.

• Members of the Flagship Ambassador Program
• Current, full-time COAS students with a GPA of 2.5 or higher

The matching system for the Flagship International Buddy Program is a carefully designed process aimed at creating compatible pairs between Flagship Buddies and incoming COAS exchange students. It begins with an initial application stage, where both COAS students and exchange students express their preferences, interests, and any specific needs they may have. These inputs serve as the foundation for the matching process. Factors such as language proficiency, academic interests, hobbies, and cultural backgrounds are taken into consideration to ensure a harmonious pairing. 

1. Profile Collection:

• Incoming Exchange Students: Collect information about incoming exchange students, including their interests, academic focus, language proficiency, and any specific preferences they may have regarding their buddy.
• Flagship Buddies: Similarly, gather profiles of buddy volunteers, taking into account their interests, availability, cultural sensitivity, and language skills.

2. Matching Criteria:

•  Shared Interests: Prioritize matching based on shared interests and hobbies. This helps create a strong initial connection between buddies.
• Academic Alignment: Consider academic interests and majors when making matches, aiming to pair students who share similar fields of study.
• Language Proficiency: If language proficiency is a concern, match students with compatible language skills to facilitate effective communication.
• Cultural Background: Consider the cultural background of both parties, aiming for a mix of local and international students to promote cross-cultural learning.

3. Compatibility Assessment:

• Surveys or Interviews: Conduct surveys or interviews with both incoming exchange students and buddy volunteers to gain a deeper understanding of their personalities, preferences, and expectations.
• Feedback from Previous Participants: If available, use feedback from previous iterations of the program to inform matching decisions.

4. Introduction:

• Facilitate Initial Contact: Once matches are made, The Office of Academic Student Affairs in the COAS Office of the Dean will facilitate a formal introduction between buddies and exchange students on campus. o meet with your buddy soon after their arrival to introduce yourself, help them get settled, and/or show them around
• Provide Guidelines: Offer guidelines on how to initiate conversation and encourage an open and welcoming attitude. o attend an orientation/training session at the beginning of the semester

5. Ongoing Support:

• Email/text/call your buddy at least once a week for their first month at HU — just check in to see how she/he is adjusting to DC
• Plan at least 4 social outings during the semester; grab a coffee, get lunch together between classes, go see a movie, Thanksgiving, whatever you and your buddy decide
• Complete a brief evaluation at the end of the semester

For more information on becoming a Flagship Buddy please contact Ms. Lanajarae Gordon at lanajarae.gordon@howard.edu.