In accordance with The Norwegian Government’s enhanced focus on the importance of ensuring a good social learning environment for all students at Norwegian HEIs, INN University has made integration of international students a priority. In addition to finding their way in a new University, the international students face a wide range of cultural challenges when they move to Norway. The Buddy programme smoothens this challenging transition and helps facilitate the student integration at INN University.

The course Internationalisation at home offers both Norwegian and international students the opportunity to engage in INN’s internationalisation efforts by becoming buddies for new international students. The buddies help establish a good environment for international students at all campuses, by planning and arranging a wide spectre of social events and by assisting the international students throughout the semester.

During the course, the Buddy will be assigned several tasks such as:

• Communication with international students prior to arrival.
• Assist students with a wide range of practical matters upon arrival (pick-up at train station, accompany to student housing, show around campus and the city, get bus cards, etc.).
• Assist the students throughout the semester.
• Facilitate integration between international and Norwegian students.
• Work in teams to organise and execute events/social events and trips.

In addition, the Buddies must participate at a combination of meetings and seminars addressing topics of 1) internationalisation, 2) cultural understanding, 3) global competence and the 4) use of social media.

Prerequisites to apply:

Minimum one semester must be completed at INN University. Both Norwegian and international Bachelor and Master students can apply.

Criteria for student selection:

• Completed semester abroad (not mandatory).
• English language skills, both written and orally (minimum level: B1).
• Average grade from INN University.
• Personal characteristics and/or relevant skills

To determine the selection, the International coordinator will invite the best applicants to an interview. The interview will be conducted in English.