Buddy scheme helps freshers settle in to University life
First year Engineering and the Environment students joining the University of Southampton this autumn received a helping hand from a friendly team of experienced undergraduates, keen to help them make the most of their time at university.
Our 40 ‘transition buddies' met with freshers to share their experiences, answer questions and sort out any problems they may have in their initial weeks at University, complementing the work of lecturers who provide academic support.
"Coming to university is exciting but we think first years appreciate getting a little extra help when they arrive," says Manuela Bung who co-ordinates the transition buddy scheme in Engineering and the Environment. "Our students enjoy meeting the newcomers and passing on their knowledge."
Audiology student Hayley Billington was a buddy in 2012 and enjoyed supporting the freshers: "Students always find it easier to ask a transition buddy about the more social aspects of University life than their personal tutor or lecturer," she explains. "And, as all of us buddies have been through it all ourselves, we can give our honest views and share our experiences on anything from living in halls to the best nights out in Southampton."