The ENHANCE Mobility Ambassador Programme
Inspire Others to Join the Journey
The ENHANCE Buddies
Are you passionate about studying abroad and inspiring others to do the same? The ENHANCE Alliance is launching the “ENHANCE Buddies” programme, a peer-to-peer ambassador initiative where students share their mobility stories to encourage others to explore opportunities within the ENHANCE network. As an ENHANCE Buddy, you’ll showcase your experiences on our social media, helping to create a community that values diversity, inclusion, and support. Join us to empower your peers and make a real impact at your university!
The Power of Peer-to-Peer Influence
As an ENHANCE Buddy, you’ll share your personal story of studying abroad to encourage other students to explore mobility opportunities*.
By sharing your authentic experiences, including the challenges and countless benefits of studying abroad, you’ll inspire others to step out of their comfort zones and embrace international education, regardless of the barriers they may face.
*Mobility in this context refers to studying at a partner university within the ENHANCE network, e.g. a semester abroad, a Blended Intensive Programme like a Summer or Winter School, etc.
Who Can Become an ENHANCE Buddy?
We’re looking for students who have participated in, are currently participating in, or are about to embark on a mobility (both short- and long-term) within the ENHANCE network. If you’re passionate about sharing your experiences abroad with an online or onsite community, you could be the perfect fit! We particularly encourage students from diverse backgrounds, including those who have received the Erasmus+ Inclusion Top-up, to apply.
Roles and Responsibilities
What Do ENHANCE Buddies Do?
Content Creation
ENHANCE Buddies will use the ENHANCE Instagram account to share their experiences, recommendations, and insights. This may include Instagram takeovers, live interviews, and posts about academic life, cultural experiences, and campus activities at ENHANCE universities.
You’ll have the opportunity to create a range of content, including blog posts, videos, and Reels. Whether it’s a campus tour, a favourite course highlight, or travel tips, your content will help prospective students explore the possibilities of studying abroad in an authentic and engaging way.
The ENHANCE Buddies will receive training and support by ENHANCE professionals in the engagement with different content formats and social media channels. Develop new skills while meeting new people in the ENHANCE community.
Peer Support
As an ENHANCE Buddy, you’ll be an informal point of contact for students interested in mobility (For example by answering comments and messages on Instagram directed to you). You are not giving formal consulting – which is the job of International Offices – but interested students might contact you for asking questions about your real experiences, which you will be happy to share.
Participation in Events
ENHANCE Buddies may also be invited to participate in physical or online events, either at their own universities or at another ENHANCE campus.
What's in it for you?
Comprehensive Onboarding
All ENHANCE Buddies will receive a two-day online onboarding training. This training will equip you with the necessary skills for your ambassador role, including storytelling, social media management, and intercultural communication. The training will also introduce you to the support network within the ENHANCE Coordination Team, which will be available throughout your journey as an ENHANCE Buddy. Being part of the ambassador program „ENHANCE Buddies“ is a learning activity for you. You will learn new skills throughout your engagement.
Ongoing Development
In addition to the initial training, ENHANCE Buddies will benefit from regular check-ins, supportive meetings, and an annual community-building event held in different ENHANCE cities. These opportunities will help you build your network, develop new skills, and reflect on your experiences.
Annual Highlight: ENHANCE Buddies Community Meeting
As an ENHANCE Buddy, you have the chance to get invited to the two-day annual ENHANCE community event. The event takes place at different ENHANCE locations each year. ENHANCE Alliance finances your travel and accomodation costs and provides the program of the event. The annual network meeting is the highlight event of the ENHANCE Buddies program. This yearly meeting of ENHANCE Buddies brings together active ambassadors for an impactful experience of learning and networking. It’s a unique opportunity for members to share insights, discuss challenges, and celebrate achievements. With engaging keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and valuable networking sessions, the meeting fosters connections for lifetime. Supporting ENHANCE Buddies’ personal and professional growth. The date of the next community meeting will be communicated on this page.
Programme Timeline
Key Dates
- 28th October: Application deadline.
November/ December (tbc): ENHANCE Buddies Online Training. 8 hours organised in 2 days.Final date to be confirmed with selected ENHANCE Buddies.
Programme and activity launch after training iteration.
- Spring 2025: First ENHANCE Community event (on-site), with all ENHANCE Buddies.
Ready to Make an Impact?
If you’re excited about the possibility of becoming an ENHANCE Buddy and making a difference in your peers’ lives, we encourage you to apply. This is a unique opportunity to develop valuable skills, expand your network, and contribute to the empowerment of students facing barriers for studying abroad.
Contact
For any questions or further details, feel free to contact Melih Özkardes at melih.oezkardes@enhanceuniversity.eu
FAQs
What exactly is the ENHANCE Buddies programme?
The ENHANCE Buddies programme is a peer-to-peer mobility ambassador initiative where students share their authentic experiences with their peers about studying abroad to promote international mobility within the ENHANCE Alliance.
Who can apply to become an ENHANCE Buddy?
What will I be expected to do as an ENHANCE Buddy?
As an ENHANCE Buddy, you will share your experiences through social media, primarily Instagram , by posting about your life abroad, academic experiences, and cultural exchanges. You will also be encouraged to participate in events and create content that inspires other students to study abroad.
How much time will I need to commit to being an ENHANCE Buddy?
You are expected to be regularly active over a period of at least six months. The time commitment may vary depending on activities and events, but typically involves regular social media activity, content creation, and responding to your peers’ questions or comments. We welcome the continuation of your engagement beyond six months, and you can remain active even after your study abroad.
Do I need to have social media experience to be an ENHANCE Buddy?
No, you do not need professional social media experience. What matters is your enthusiasm and willingness to share your unique story. ENHANCE Buddies will receive training on how to effectively share their experiences.
What kind of support will I receive as an ENHANCE Buddy?
You will receive a comprehensive two-day online onboarding training and ongoing support from the ENHANCE Communications Team and the ENHANCE Diversity Office. Additionally, there will be regular check-ins and opportunities to connect with other ENHANCE Buddies. You will also receive a travel scholarship to attend the annual ENHANCE Buddies Community Meeting hosted in one of the ENHANCE cities.
Are there any benefits to becoming an ENHANCE Buddy?
Yes, you will develop valuable skills in storytelling, social media management, and intercultural communication. You will also receive an ENHANCE Certificate of Engagement and have the opportunity to attend an annual community-building event in one of the ENHANCE cities.
What if I am already involved in a similar ambassador programme?
You can still apply to become an ENHANCE Buddy. Your experience in other programmes can bring valuable insights to the ENHANCE Buddies community, and you will have the opportunity to expand your network and impact.
How is the selection process conducted?
The selection process involves submitting an application, followed by an interview if shortlisted. The ENHANCE Communications Team and Diversity Office will review applications and select up to ten students from across the ENHANCE Alliance. We aim to have a team of ENHANCE Buddies representing the diversity of our student community across all ten ENHANCE member universities.
Can I continue being an ENHANCE Buddy after the initial six-month period?
Yes, if your situation allows, you can continue to be an ENHANCE Buddy for up to two years. We welcome this, as continued participation allows you to deepen your involvement and gain more experience in promoting mobility within the ENHANCE Alliance.
