ISSS Buddy Program
Content
Body
The ISSS Buddy Program aims to connect Emory’s incoming students with their peers, facilitate a smoother transition to campus, foster a sense of belonging, and encourage cultural exchange, to enrich the Emory campus community.
Program Goals:
- Cultural Sharing: The ISSS Buddy Program aims to foster an environment where students can share their unique cultures, enhancing mutual understanding and appreciation among peers through engaging activities and discussions.
- Connection and Belonging: By participating in the program, students will build lasting friendships, creating a supportive network that promotes a sense of belonging within the diverse Emory community and beyond.
- Engaging Community: The program encourages students to break free from the “Emory bubble,” facilitating involvement in local events and initiatives that enrich their university experience and connect them with the wider community.
- Attend the Orientation
- September 14, 2026
- Attend the Program Wrap-Up Social
- December 4, 2026
- Meet with your buddy at least 2-3 times a month during the semester-long program.
- Complete at least 3 activities together (see “Activity Ideas” section of the Buddy Program Manual for some examples)
- Connection is key. Use the communication method that works best for you and your buddy.
- Complete your end-of-semester evaluation
- More information on this coming soon
- Reach out to ISSS if you need help or guidance
- Primary Contact: Ford Johnson
- RJOHN40@emory.edu | 404.727.5303
- If you have any general questions or concerns, please contact us at isss@emory.edu or 404-727-3300. We are here to help!
- Do you have a question for the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office? Feel free to stop by in person during our regular office hours (8:30AM-5PM, Monday-Friday) or reach out to us via the phone number or email address listed below.
- ISSS Address: ISSS Office, Suite 130, North Decatur Building, 1784 North Decatur Road, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322
- ISSS Phone Number: 404-727-3300
- ISSS Email Address: isss@emory.edu
- Primary Contact: Ford Johnson
- Current Student?
- Apply to serve as a mentor for an incoming student for the Fall 2026 semester.
- Update: The application window for Fall 2026 is now closed
- Apply to serve as a mentor for an incoming student for the Fall 2026 semester.
- New Incoming Student?
- Update: The 20 available spots and the waitlist for Fall 2026 are now full but don't worry, there are still plenty of ways to get involved on campus. Check out the "Get Involved" section of our website for a list of other programs and events our office organizes.
ISSS Buddy Program Manual
Click here for our ISSS Buddy Program Manual which contains helpful program information including:
- Buddy program overview
- Program requirements
- Code of conduct
- Conversation starters to use with your buddy
- Activity ideas
- Tips for navigating cultural differences