ICCHS has a student-mentoring scheme that is designed to support PGT students from abroad, including the EU, by ‘buddying’ them with a home student.
The scheme is organised by Myra Giesen in ICCHS; this entry uses the text she includes in the PGT degree programme handbook.
During Welcome Week, Home (UK) students will be asked to volunteer to be a buddy with a non-UK student. Myra, as the DPD, will do the matching taking account of age, gender, first degree subject, work experience, and PGT programme. Every international student gets a UK buddy. Each pair set their own parameters and no requirement or expectations exist that buddies will socialise outside their buddy relationship. Buddies can consult Myra or their Personal Tutor if issues arise.
The system is intended to introduce non-UK students to the UK Higher Education system, and to explore cultural diversity and learning styles, through peer interactions. As comparative knowledge of the ICCHS’ disciplines is a significant part of the programme, UK buddies can hope to get knowledge of museums and galleries in a foreign country from taking part in the scheme.
Past buddies have remained good friends and UK buddies have been to visit their foreign buddy in his/her home country. Next year, based upon feedback, I will be organising at least one 'event/mixer' early in Semester 1 that will serve as an ice-breaker for buddies.
Buddying in ICCHS
Student Engagement, Student Induction
Undergraduate (Stage 1)
Arts and Cultures
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Pairs of students
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