RIA - Department of International Affairs
Every semester new international students come to our university. Many of them do not (yet) speak German and are sometimes quite overwhelmed with the organization of their studies and their stay in Germany. The Department of International Affairs (RIA) supports internationals in their first months at OVGU and helps to connect new international students and students already living here with the Buddy Program. In this way, they have someone to help them, but above all, a first contact to fellow students in Magdeburg. Of course, the buddies benefit from this as well: exciting insights into the culture of the international students, joint excursions in Germany or cooking evenings where you get to know the national cuisine of India, South America or China. If you would like to join us, you can simply register as a buddy or international at the beginning of each new semester or write to us personally and join the team. The requirements for buddies are simple: they only need some time for the duration of the programme (one semester) to meet with the respective international from time to time and to be there for him or her in case of questions. No special language skills are necessary, but a basic knowledge of English is an advantage.
Buddies are in demand every semester - especially in the winter semester many new international students come to OVGU and are very happy if someone supports them during their first steps and gives them tips for living in Magdeburg. If you would like to support international students in their first semester at our university, please register here in our survey as a Buddy. As soon as we have found the right international student for you, we will get in touch and you can start the new semester together.
If you have any questions or suggestions about the program, you can always contact us by E-mail. For current information, please check out our Facebook and everything you need to know about upcoming events can be found in the calendar of the official Welcome to OVGU App.
You are new in town and don't know where to start or what your first steps should be?
We are here to help you!
When you sign up for the RIA Buddy Program, you will be assigned a buddy who is a student himself/herself here at OVGU. You can sign up through our survey. Your buddy will be willing to answer your questions, share experiences, and help you in the best way possible. It is always good to have a friend in need. Don't hesitate to ask your buddy for help and support!
This handbook contains important information you need to know during your stay in Magdeburg. You can follow the handbook step by step and work through the most important tasks after your arrival. Do you still have questions? You can also contact us by e-mail at any time. We will be happy to help you. For more information, you can also contact IKUS, read through the first steps again here and in emergencies, you can contact the emergency services.
>> Download manual here
