Guidelines for the International Buddy Program at National Chi Nan University

Approved at the 519th Administrative Meeting on July 16, 2019

1. Purpose
   These guidelines have been established to provide a friendly campus environment for foreign students, help them adapt to campus life and integrate into local culture, and offer NCNU students more opportunities for language learning and international interaction. This aims to broaden students' global perspectives and understanding. The guidelines are referred to as the "Guidelines for the International Buddy Program at National Chi Nan University" (hereinafter referred to as "the Guidelines").

2. Eligibility and Service Items

   (1) Eligibility
       1. Enrolled undergraduate students in their second year or above (including graduate students, but excluding overseas exchange students).  
       2. Strong English communication skills or proficiency in other foreign languages.  
       3. A proactive attitude and passion for volunteer service.  

   (2) Service Items
       1. Assist in welcoming foreign students at the airport upon their arrival in Taiwan.  
       2. Help foreign students settle into dormitories, register, and check in.  
       3. Assist with course registration and using the course selection system.  
       4. Relay campus information and maintain communication.  
       5. Provide daily life assistance and consultation for foreign students.  
       6. Help organize welcome events, cultural experiences, and social activities for foreign students.  
       7. Participate in language exchange with foreign students.  
       8. Assist with other matters that support foreign students in adapting to life and academics.

3. Eligible Students and Assignment Process

   (1) Eligible Students  
       1. International degree-seeking students at NCNU (including bachelor's, master';s, and doctoral students).  
       2. Short-term foreign exchange or research students at NCNU.  

   (2) Assignment Process  
       In the first semester of a foreign student's enrollment, the Office of International and Cross-Strait Affairs (hereinafter referred to as "the OICSA") will assign an international buddy. Starting from the second semester, foreign students can apply for a buddy based on their needs.

4. Application Timeline and Process  

   (1) Selection for the International Buddy Program is conducted twice a year, in April and November. The selection is primarily based on document review, and interviews may be arranged if necessary. The application materials include academic transcripts in Chinese, language proficiency certificates, and other supporting documents.  
   (2) Selected students must complete the required buddy training activities before the start of the next semester to qualify officially. Outstanding participants may be reappointed with approval from the OICSA.  
   (3) Pairings are arranged by the OICSA, considering factors such as language proficiency, field of study, and overseas experience.

5. Rights and Responsibilities  

   (1) Rights  
       1. International buddies may participate for free in buddy meetups, cultural experiences, and related exchange activities organized by the OICSA.  
       2. Outstanding international buddies may receive awards each semester, based on university regulations and subject to review by the OICSA.  
       3. When participating in overseas exchange programs, international volunteering, or other international activities, proof of service as an international buddy and award certificates may be considered for additional points.  
       4. Each semester, international buddies will receive a service certificate and letter of appreciation from the OICSA.  

   (2) Responsibilities  
       1. International buddies must actively fulfill the service tasks listed in the Guidelines and participate in service briefings, training, and related activities organized by the OICSA.  
       2. The buddy service is voluntary, with no monetary rewards, stipends, or other subsidies.  
       3. International buddies are required to submit an activity record form and a self-evaluation questionnaire.

6. Implementation  
   The Guidelines will be implemented upon approval by the administrative meeting and following public announcement.
   The controlling language of the Guidelines is Chinese. The Chinese version will govern in the event of a conflict between the Chinese version and the translation.