Carolina Figueiredo is DEGIS General Coordinator and has been running the Buddy Program since its creation in 2021.
My Own Journey as an International Student
Five years ago, I moved from Brazil to Berlin to pursue my master’s degree. It was a life-changing decision, filled with excitement and possibility, but also plenty of challenges. While my university supported me academically, I often wished I had a peer who truly understood what I was going through: someone to guide me through the maze of German bureaucracy, help me discover the best spots in town, and share the everyday struggles and joys of being new in a foreign country.
Back then, there was no DEGIS and no Buddy Program. Today, thousands of students have access to exactly what I once missed, a community where support, connection, and friendship are only one application away.
The Buddy Program at a Glance
Since its inception in 2021, the DEGIS Buddy Program has supported over 1,000 international students across Germany. The idea is simple but powerful: connecting Newbies, students who have just arrived in Germany, with Veterans, students who have already been here for at least six months.
The program is built on the principle that no student should feel alone when starting life in a new country. Whether it’s tackling German paperwork, making friends, or exploring the city, your buddy is there to make the transition smoother and more enjoyable!
For Newbies: Navigating Your First Months
If you’re just starting your studies in Germany this semester, the Buddy Program is designed with you in mind. As a Newbie, you’ll be paired with a more experienced student who knows what it’s like to walk in your shoes.
Your buddy can:
- Help you get through bureaucracy like Anmeldung (address registration), opening a bank account, or finding health insurance.
- Show you how to navigate university systems, register for exams, and find study spaces.
- Introduce you to student life: clubs, events, affordable shopping spots, and hidden gems in your city.
- Most importantly, be a friend, helping you settle in and feel at home.
Prerna, a Newbie in Trier, shared her experience:
“My experience with the buddy program was fantastic, and that is almost entirely because I was paired with Rachit Nishad. He has become a close friend. He not only helped me with the stressful things like finding accommodation and sorting out my German paperwork but also showed me how to enjoy the city. Thanks to him, I’ve explored amazing hiking trails and gotten to know the best places around Trier.”
For Veterans: Giving Back and Growing Together
If you’ve already been in Germany for six months or longer, you can become a Veteran Buddy. This role allows you to share your experience, help a newcomer overcome the challenges you once faced, and build international friendships along the way.
As a Veteran, you’ll also benefit:
- You’ll gain valuable intercultural skills and improve your communication.
- You’ll earn a volunteer certificate of 6 hours, something that can strengthen your job or scholarship applications.
- Want to do more? Become a Local Leader in the program and receive a 12-hour certificate.
Vanessa, a Veteran in Schmalkalden, reflected on her journey:
“Overall, I really enjoyed engaging with the Newbies. Everyone was friendly, open, and eager to share their culture, which made the exchange both enriching and enjoyable. It was also a great opportunity for me to improve my English skills with their support. Additionally, it was fascinating to connect with people from different countries, gain international perspectives, and develop intercultural communication skills while building meaningful connections.”
How the Program Works
The Buddy Program is structured to ensure meaningful, supportive, and fun interactions. Here’s how it goes:
- Application Process: Visit our website and complete the Buddy Program application form before September 14, 2025, 23:59 CEST.
- Matching: After applications close, DEGIS pairs Newbies and Veterans based on their cities, ensuring local connections.
- Activities: For six months, you and your buddy will meet, explore, and support each other. Activities can be as simple as grabbing coffee, going to a student event, or tackling bureaucracy together.
- Monthly Check-ins: DEGIS runs quick surveys to see how the program is going, encouraging buddies to share pictures of their activities.
This setup ensures that everyone gets the most out of their experience and feels part of a vibrant community.
A Unique Experience in Germany
The Buddy Program is much more than a practical support system; it’s a way to build a home away from home. For Newbies, it makes the first months less stressful and more exciting. For Veterans, it’s a chance to give back and create lasting international friendships.
If I could go back to my first semester in Germany, I would have joined in a heartbeat. Today, I’m glad so many international students have this chance.
👉 Register now and take the first step towards an unforgettable experience in Germany! Applications close on September 14, 2025, at 23:59 CEST.
P.S – This year’s DEGIS Buddy Program webinar recording is now on our YouTube! Take a look here
