Initiative brought local and international students closer together, offering support from bureaucratic procedures to cultural adaptation.

Last semester, the Office for International Relations (REINTER) successfully carried out the first edition of the International Friend Program, an initiative that connects university students with newly arrived exchange students, facilitating their adaptation to Brazil.
A total of 17 volunteers took part in the program, supporting 50 new international students. The assignment of tutors and exchange students was organized to divide responsibilities among participants, while also ensuring flexibility when necessary, according to their needs and preferences. Tutors were responsible for providing guidance on documentation, navigating the city, obtaining transportation cards, and supporting cultural adaptation in Brazil.
Some participants in the program brought with them their own experiences as former international students. With first-hand knowledge of arriving in Brazil, they were able to share their perspectives to help newcomers begin their academic journey at FURG.

Marybeth Díaz, a Venezuelan student at FURG and tutor in the International Friend Program, highlighted the positive impact on newcomers: “It is very good, because they finish this first process feeling calmer and more prepared to continue with the next stages. (...) Moreover, they meet others who are going through the same situation and help each other,” she explained.

Tutor Gina López, from El Salvador, recalled that when she arrived in Brazil for her first international experience in Ceará, she relied on a similar mentorship program, which helped her with procedures and adaptation, building bonds she still maintains today. At FURG, however, she arrived before the creation of the program, and had to turn to different offices and coordinators to learn the necessary steps.

It was precisely to fill this gap that REINTER created the International Friend Program, providing personalized support to foreign students in all stages of adaptation. The program also stands out for its high rate of tutor return: 14 of the volunteers have already chosen to participate again next semester, showing their strong commitment to the initiative.