The Welcome Point, which operates at our University, was established to make foreign students feel at home at our Alma Mater. It is possible,with the support of Uni Buddies who help new students find their way around our University. On June 2, this year's volunteers met with the Vice-Rector for Education and International Relations Prof. Sławomir Smyczek, Ph.D.
Uni Buddy
In addition to educational activities, the University of Economics in Katowice encourages students to develop their passions and interests in various research clubs, student organizations, and volunteer programs, such as Uni Buddies. Through this program can not only have an interesting time during their studies but also gain skills highly valued by future employers.
Uni Buddies are students of the UE Katowice who help their foreign peers acclimatize to their new place and accompany them in their first steps at the university, in the city, and in the country. Uni Buddies closely cooperate with and provide significant support to the Welcome Point service center for international students, doctoral students, and staff. They assist inorganizing various educational and integration events, share their interests with their peers and guide them to their favorite places in Katowice. They are also present at the Global Village, where foreign students share information about the culture of their countries, including presentations of traditional dishes.
This year, the Uni Buddy program was exceptionally extended to include not only our Polish students but also students from Ukraine, Egypt, Russia, Pakistan, India, Turkey, and Algeria.
Meeting with Vice-Rector for Education and International Relations
On June 2nd, at the Welcome Point service center, the annual meeting for Uni Buddies with Vice-Rector for Education and International Cooperation, Prof. Sławomir Smyczek, took place. During the event, certificates were awarded to honor their participation in the volunteer program titled "UniBuddy".
The meeting was organized by the Internationalization Office.
"Uni Buddy of University of University in Economics Katowice is a very important program for our University because actually, you are the face of our University. The first contact a new student who is coming to our University has is with you. So initially by email, then face to face you become someone they can trust, and you can make the first impression only once [...] This is a volunteer program which means that you have very big hearts and are ready to share this positive energy with other people. Moreover, the competencies you acquire while doing this volunteer job in an intercultural team are very much appreciated by employers, especially big corporations." - said Prof Slawomir Smyczek.
On behalf of the Welcome Point team, Edyta Lachowicz-Santos, Director of the Internationalization Office, thanked the students:
"When we had a dream to start this place it was not only about a physical, beautiful location but we wanted it to be also a place, where everyone feels at home. Where there will be integration and inclusion. It is you who made this dream come true. I’m proud and happy to have the privilege to work with you! Thank you!"
It was a perfect moment to share their achievements and plans for the future during inspiring conversations with one another. A sweet surprise was also prepared for the participants of the meeting.
Volunteering and the Welcome Point have received very positive feedback in surveys conducted among short-term students during the winter semester. Here's how one of this year's Uni Buddies describes their experience:
"Participating in the 'Uni Buddy' program allows you to go beyond the boundaries of normal studying. It enables you to meet new people from many countries and gives you internal satisfaction from helping international students in need. Information about participating in the program can also be an interesting addition to your CV."
Integration Picnic
The "Rainbow Picnic" held on June 1, at the Three Ponds Valley provided an opportunity for spending time together. The picnic was attended by students from both Poland and countries such as Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Greece, Russia, and Pakistan. During the picnic, Uni Buddies and international students shared their future plans and discussed the many interesting things one can do in the area.
"I didn't realize that Katowice was so green when I arrived at the end of September last year. In my opinion, they offer many opportunities during the summer, such as renting bicycles or kayaks. You can really have a great time outdoors here."
"Katowice and the entire Silesian region offer many possibilities. There are numerous festivals, concerts, and outdoor events. It's worth keeping an eye on the events calendar so as not to miss any interesting gatherings."
Registration
We encourage all students to participate in the Uni Buddy Program. For this purpose, a short registration form has been prepared to collect your applications and create a volunteer database.
Deadline for applications for the winter semester 2023/2024: August 1, 2023.
We count on your applications, assistance, and commitment!
Join us