TAU Student Buddies

 Who are buddies? 

Buddies are TAU's Israeli students, usually undergraduates. They speak English well and are eager to share Israeli culture and lifestyle with their international peers.

In addition to forming personal connections, buddies organize social gatherings for both Israeli and international students, allowing everyone to spend time together and become part of the local student community.

Some buddies and volunteers establish strong connections that extend beyond the planned activities, including personal meetups with Israeli families, participation in daily Israeli events, and more. These tight bonds often enable both parties to maintain their cross-cultural relationships for many years.

 How does it work?

The program is run jointly by the Lowy International School and the TAU Student Union. 

Through the Buddy System, incoming international students are matched with Israeli volunteers who act as their buddies. Buddies connect with their international peers before they arrive in Israel and are available to answer questions students might have regarding student life on campus or life in Israel.

After students' arrival, buddies maintain a regular connection with them, supporting their adjustment in Israel and at TAU through social events and practical advice.

Chen Rujing, an exchange student from China, looks back fondly on her time with her buddy, Raz Shacham:

"Raz invited me to celebrate Passover and Shavuot with her family, and these were fabulous opportunities for me to dive into Israeli culture." 

Read the full article here >>>

 What are the benefits of having a buddy?

Connecting with a buddy through the TAU Buddy System offers several important benefits:

• You'll have a chance to make deeper, more personal connections during your time in Israel.

• You'll feel more secure and supported even before you get to Tel Aviv University (TAU), which is particularly relevant now.

• You'll have an extra support system to fall back on while studying at TAU

 Are you an international student and would like to be paired with a buddy?

Fill in the form here and we'll get back to you.

If you have further questions, please contact us at outexchange@tauex.tau.ac.il

 Are you an Israeli student at TAU and wish to volunteer as a buddy? 

Click here to apply for the Fall 2024 Semester. 

If you have further questions, please contact the TAU Student Union at tarbut3@student.co.il