Swoop Buddy Program
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The Swoop Buddy Program aims to connect Emory’s international students with their U.S. 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 Swoop 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 and Meet and Greet Social
- September dd, yyyy (week of September 7th)
- 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 “Things to Do” examples below)
- 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
- Applications Open: May 15, 2026
- Application Deadline: Friday, August 28
Current Buddies
Don’t let deciding on activities to do with your buddy stress you out! Take some of our suggestions below for easy opportunities to connect with your partner. Check them off as you go along and see how many you can complete!
("*" = Student Discount Available with Student ID)
Be an eagle!
- Cheer on an Emory sports teams
- Attend an International Community Friday Lunch or Coffee Hour
- Take photos at the Emory gate
- Grab a coffee/tea on campus
- Attend a group fitness class or work out together at Emory WoodPEC
- Check out one of the tables at Wonderful Wednesday
- Have lunch at one of the dining halls on campus
- Attend a Windows to the World event
- Explore the Emory Farmers Market
- Rent out a video game or board game from the Cox Hall Computing Center
- Attend a show at Emory Schwartz Center
- Visit the Carlos Museumw
- Study at one of Emory’s libraries
- Attend Global Festival or host a table
- Explore Lullwater Park
- Main Entrance at 1463 Clifton Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30329
- Check out a student club or campus organization
- Attend an event from the Emory Events Calendar
Be a local and explore:
- Little Five Points
- Downtown Decatur
- East Atlanta Village
- Oakland Cemetery
- West End
- Piedmont Park
- Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
- Krog Street
- Grant Park
- Virginia Highland
- Buford Highway
Be a Tourist and check out:
- Georgia Aquarium*
- World of Coca-Cola
- National Center for Civil and Human Rights
- High Museum of Art
- Atlanta Botanical Garden
- Centennial Olympic Park
- The Fox Theatre
- Ponce City Market
- Fernbank Museum*
- Zoo Atlanta*
- Skyview Ferris Wheel*
- Atlanta History Center*
Be a Fan and enjoy:
- Atlanta United (soccer)
- Atlanta Falcons (football)
- Atlanta Braves (baseball)
- Atlanta Dream (Women’s basketball)
- Atlanta Hawks (basketball)
- EchoPark Speedway (formerly Atlanta Motor Speedway) (NASCAR)
Click here for our 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