1. ECU Buddy Program Training Session

2. ECU Buddy Training Session • Overview of Buddy Program • Student Support Services • Scenario discussion • Buddy Application Form

3. Aim of ECU Buddy Program • To help new incoming SA/Ex students settle into their new environment • To provide greater opportunities for SA/Ex students to mix with current ECU students • To foster intercultural awareness • To encourage ECU students to go on exchange • To allow returned exchange students to stay involved with exchange

4. Role of an ECU Buddy • To be a primary point of contact for the SA/Ex student • To provide practical information and guidance • To be a cultural guide • To refer the SA/Ex student to ECU/ external support services • To ask the Study Abroad & Exchange Team for advice if needed

5. What does an ECU Buddy do? • Email the SA/Ex student prior to semester • Attend the Welcome Reception • Provide guidance, answer questions • Show the SA/Ex student around campus • Show the SA/Ex student how to use public transport • Attend day trips with SA/Ex students (optional) • Attend Farewell Function • Anything above and beyond is optional

6. What a Buddy doesn’t need to do Buddies don’t need to be a: • taxi service • counsellor • room-mate/landlord • baby-sitter

7. What do we expect of a Buddy? • To take their role seriously and to fulfil it in a responsible and respectful manner • To be mindful that they are representing ECU • To be open-minded about different cultures, practices and perspectives • To assist the SA/Ex student where they can • To refer the SA/Ex student as appropriate

8. What ECU will do • Provide training for the role as a buddy • Provide information about ECU support services • Match you with one or two SA/Ex students, according to preferences if possible • Provide ongoing support and guidance • Invite ECU buddies to functions/excursions • Acknowledge ECU buddies with a Certificate of Appreciation

9. Student Support Services • Student Central • Learning Advisers • Equity, Diversity and Disability Service • Counselling • Student Health Services • Multifaith Chaplaincy • Student Recruitment and Careers

10. Scenarios

11. Any questions? Natalie Ilott Study Abroad & Exchange Office Joondalup Campus, Building 18, Level 2 Mount Lawley Campus ML3.147, Days to be advised Tel: 6304 2427 student.exchange@ecu.edu.au http://www.ecu.edu.au/international/