Applications Currently Closed
Applications to be an International Exchange Buddy are currently closed and will reopen in September 2026.
About
The International Buddy Program is a volunteer program that pairs incoming exchange students with Texas A&M students to help the exchange students integrate into life in the U.S. and at Texas A&M. This program is led by the Education Abroad Office in an effort to develop and enhance intercultural and global relations and interactions between students. Buddies are Texas A&M students who serve as a resource for 1 - 3 incoming international exchange students. Buddies provide support and a helping hand, which can make a world of difference for incoming exchange students. Texas A&M buddies are outstanding people who have a sincere interest in helping others. Our buddies are respectful and open-minded of cultural and individual differences while making connections across the globe.
Becoming a Buddy
General Expectations
- Commit to volunteering as a buddy for at least one (1) full semester.
- Agree to sign and submit the Exchange Buddy Contract.
- Attend all required monthly meetings.
- Be respectful, professional and helpful to both your buddy and the Education Abroad Team. We look for buddies that are willing to dedicate an appropriate amount of time to their exchange student before, during and after their time at Texas A&M.
- This may look different for each buddy pairing, but can include connecting online via social media, meeting in person or attending events together.
- Be responsive to your buddy and Education Abroad communications.
- Complete an end of semester survey to provide honest feedback.
Requirements to Join
- Be a current Texas A&M student who has completed at least one semester at A&M
- Be in good standing with the university (TAMU Student Rule 27.1.2)
- Submit an application
- Attend an orientation/training session
- Attend International Buddy program/Education Abroad events
- Be respectful of cultural, religious, political, and sexual orientation differences
- Be willing to devote time with your exchange buddy
- Have effective communication skills
- Attend any mandatory meetings
- Complete a brief evaluation at the end of the semester
Benefits of Joining
- Connect with international students and help them through their time at A&M
- Practice your second language skills with a native speaker
- Become more globally aware by learning about new cultures
- Help promote international education on campus
- Develop interpersonal and communication skills
- Create connections across cultures and make lasting friendships
Application Process and Deadlines
Both Texas A&M student buddies and incoming exchange buddies must submit the appropriate application.
- Fall Semester
- Applications open in spring (around April)
- Applications close (TBD)
- Students are paired (TBD)
- Spring Semester
- Applications open in early fall (September)
- Applications close (TBD)
- Students are paired (TBD)
Pairing Process
- Once applications are submitted, Education Abroad will schedule a short interview with the Texas A&M student applying to be a buddy. Once accepted, Education Abroad will pair students based on, but not limited to:
- Country of origin and cultural background
- Same or similar majors/minors
- Same or similar interests
- Once buddies are paired, Education Abroad will notify the incoming exchange student and the Texas A&M student buddy so they can start communicating!