On 19th December 2024, the Faculty of Medicine Foča, University of East Sarajevo, hosted the first Matching Day as part of the Buddy Programme. This event brought together students who applied to be buddy mentors and new students in need of buddy support.
During the event, a short presentation about the Buddy Programme was organised, providing attendees with an opportunity to learn more about the goals of the programme, how buddies can provide assistance, and the importance of mutual support in a new environment. An overview of the basic needs of a newly enrolled student was also presented, covering administrative responsibilities, academic challenges, and social integration.
The Buddy Programme operates on a voluntary basis within the framework of the Biosint project, co-funded by the European Union. We would like to highlight that our buddies are students who have chosen to dedicate their time, knowledge, and experience to help new students adjust and offer their support entirely on a voluntary basis.
Based on the interests and needs of the applicants, students were paired with buddies who best match their profiles. The aim is to ensure that each new student receives personalised support to adjust more easily to their new environment and achieve success both academically and personally.
Applications for the Buddy Programme remain open, and our buddies are available to assist all new students. In addition to practical support with administrative and academic matters, buddies are there to help new students explore the local community, provide advice on time management, and assist with other aspects of student life.
For more information about how to apply and join the programme, please visit the official website of the Faculty or contact the Student Service for Foreign Language Programmes.