Make a difference for new students at your faculty: become a mentor or buddy!

Bete van Meeuwen

Make a difference for new students at your faculty: become a mentor or buddy!

Published on 08-05-2025 12:00

Do you remember what it was like to start at UvA? Everything was new: an unfamiliar campus, a different way of studying, maybe you didn't know anyone yet. For many first-year students, starting their studies is exciting and overwhelming, especially if you are the first in your family to attend university.

As a mentor or buddy, you can make a difference! With your experience, you will help a new student get started and ensure a warm welcome at the UvA.

Become a mentor

As a mentor, you will be the first point of contact during Get Ready, a small-scale and personal introduction programme on 21 and 22 August. During these two days, you will guide a small group of first-year students from your faculty who are preparing for their start at UvA. With your knowledge and experience, you will be their point of contact, answer questions, and introduce them to student life and campus.

Fancy more? It would be great if you would also like to guide your group during Intreeweek Light (25 to 27 August). This is a shortened version of the regular Intreeweek.

Important: on 11 August there is a compulsory preparation meeting for all mentors.

What you get in return

You will develop valuable coaching and mentoring skills
New contacts with fellow student mentors and enthusiastic freshmen
You get a compensation of €300 net
Free dinner on Thursday and lunch and Meet & Greet on Friday

Become a buddy

Would you like to make an impact in a personal way? Then becoming a buddy might be something for you! As a buddy, you will accompany a student during the first 100 days of their studies.

You will help with practical matters, answer questions, give advice and ensure a good start at the UvA. This provides valuable mentoring experience! You will also visit several Meet Ups together, where all kinds of topics related to studying at the UvA are discussed.

What you get in return

You'll develop valuable coaching and mentoring skills
You'll receive an official certificate of participation that you can add to your CV
Free access to inspiring Meet Ups (some will include food)
Expand your network - you'll meet the Executive Board, the CDO team and fellow students from other faculties

Are you who we're looking for?

You are a senior student studying at FNWI, FMG, FdR, EB or FGw. You're involved, enthusiastic and know your way around the UvA. The programme is in Dutch so Dutch fluency is required. Other experience is not necessary, motivation is!

Are you the first in your family to attend university? Then you probably recognise the challenges that first-generation students go through like none other.

Sign up as a mentor, buddy or both

Together we will ensure a flying start for all new students at the UvA️. Do you have any questions? Contact getready@uva.nlExternal link.

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