The international students, from 53 universities, got to know the School during Welcome Day organized by the International Office. The members of the Buddy Program, which is coordinated by the International Committee, spent the day accompanying the new international students.

During lunch, which was held in the School courtyard, the students were able to meet, greet and share their first experiences. For Lily Palmer-Clarke, a third-year Economics student from London, it was an opportunity to meet people. She said, “Before I arrived, I didn’t know anybody except for my buddy. Now I’ve met Americans, Australians, people from Ireland and even Kenyans.” Giammarco Perlini, a third-year Economics student from Italy, also acknowledged the help he had received from his buddy. “I love the Buddy Program. It was very helpful to have someone take care of me when I arrived at the School,” he said.

The student members of the Buddy Program also had a chance to share their experiences with the recent arrivals. María Pilar Torres, a second-year student in the Economics + Leadership and Governance Program and also a buddy, highlighted the opportunity to learn about other cultures in Pamplona. She said, “The Buddy Program helps you learn to listen and become more open-minded. My dream is to be an ambassador and this is a great opportunity to start connecting with people from other countries and cultures right now.”

Welcome Day was the international students’ first contact with the School. The students will participate in exchanges lasting one or two semesters. After the first few days of welcoming the international students, the Buddy Program keeps on working. The members continue providing the new students with the advice and orientation they need throughout their stay at the University. “We should all have someone there to help us when we travel to another country,” said buddy María Pilar Torres.