The Tutor Buddy for International and Erasmus students is a key figure in supporting students throughout their academic and cultural journey at University of Foggia. This role provides practical and personal support, helping students navigate local bureaucracy, overcome linguistic and cultural barriers, and integrate into university life.

The Tutor Buddy acts as an international administrative tutor and a reliable point of reference, ready to assist in everyday situations and emergencies, facilitating a smooth transition into the new academic and social environment.

The Tutor Buddy is selected from students regularly enrolled at the University, who possess the necessary linguistic and cultural skills to support international students in overcoming initial challenges related to integration into the new academic and social setting. The project is aimed at all types of international students, including incoming and outgoing Erasmus students, Non-EU students, PHD and researchers, who face specific challenges related to their study program, the duration of their stay, and linguistic and cultural differences.

Welcome and Orientation

Assistance upon Arrival in Italy: Practical support and information on living in Italy, including guidance on administrative procedures (enrollment, course registration, and other bureaucratic matters).

Ongoing Orientation: Continuous support throughout the academic journey, with information on study programs, international mobility opportunities such as Erasmus, Traineeships).

Linguistic Support:

Support in English, French, and Arabic to overcome language barriers and make information more accessible.

Bureaucratic and Administrative Support

Assistance with complex administrative tasks, such as enrollment, course registration, and managing payments via the Esse3 portal.

Residence Permit Support: Postal Kit, guidance on obtaining and renewing residence permits, along with assistance in dealing with the local immigration police office (Questura).

Tax Code, Identity Card, Health Insurance Card and Bank Account: Help with obtaining a tax code and opening a bank account, essential for daily life in Italy.

Information on Scholarships and Financial Aid: Guidance on available scholarships, funding opportunities, and tax exemptions ISEE Parificato for tuition fee exemptions.

Accommodation Search: Assistance in finding housing, including private apartments, student dormitories or hotels, extra support for emergency situations.

Cultural and Educational Activities

Organization of educational events and cultural activities to help students engage with Italian culture, participate in A1 and B2 language courses, and interact with the local community.

Support for University Administrative Offices

The project also provides support to the university’s administrative offices, particularly academic and student secretariats, PHD, research and Higher Education services, helping manage the increased demand from international students and improving service efficiency.

Welcome and Orientation:

  • Arrival Assistance: Practical support for students arriving in Italy, including guidance on administrative tasks like enrollment, course registration, and general living in Italy.
  • Ongoing Support: Continuous assistance throughout the academic journey, providing information on study programs, Erasmus opportunities, and advice for returning home.

Linguistic Support:

  • The Tutor Buddy offers help in English, French, and Arabic to overcome language barriers, ensuring clear communication and access to necessary information.

Bureaucratic and Administrative Support:

  • Help with essential administrative tasks such as course registration, managing payments, and using the Esse3 portal.
  • Residence Permit Support: Guidance on obtaining or renewing residence permits, and assistance with local immigration office procedures (Questura).
  • Tax Code, Health Insurance, and Bank Account: Support in obtaining a tax code, opening a bank account, and applying for health insurance.
  • Financial Aid: Assistance with scholarships, funding opportunities, and navigating tax exemptions (ISEE Parificato) for tuition fee reductions.
  • Accommodation Assistance: Help finding housing options, including private apartments, student dormitories, and hotels.

Cultural and Educational Activities:

  • Organization of cultural events and educational activities to help students immerse in Italian culture, including language courses and social activities.

Support for University Offices:

  • The Tutor Buddy also helps university administrative offices manage increased demand from international students, improving efficiency and service.

Responsibilities of the Tutor Buddy:

  • Academic Support: Guides international students through academic orientation, explains university services, and helps with course selection and study methods.
  • Bureaucratic Assistance: Helps students navigate Italian administrative processes, such as university registration, residence permits, and other essential tasks.
  • Linguistic and Cultural Support: Assists with language barriers in English, French, and Arabic, and helps students integrate into Italian culture through social events and activities.
  • Daily Life Assistance: Provides help with practical matters like finding accommodation, opening a bank account, and obtaining essential documents such as tax codes and health insurance cards.
  • University Office Interaction: Acts as a liaison between students and university departments, facilitating communication and helping with administrative tasks like credit management, internships, and scholarships.
References and contacts