Feel at Home at KIT

The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) International Buddy Program connects new international students with experienced students who help them settle into university and life in Germany. KIT also organizes social events, meetups, and cultural activities to help students build friendships and feel part of the campus community. These initiatives make it easier to integrate socially and enjoy student life at KIT.

1. Register for the KIT International Buddy Program

Why is this important?

The KIT International Buddy Program is a platform for bringing together new, international students with experienced KIT students. You have the opportunity to meet KIT students who know their way around and can help you settle in, navigate academic life, and integrate socially. This is especially helpful if you are new to the language or culture.

Steps to take:

Where: Visit KIT – INTL - Incoming Students – Degree-seeking – During Studies-International Buddy Program, find the “sign up” button which leads you to the registration form.
How: Fill out the registration form, including your interests and language preferences. This helps match you with a suitable buddy.
What happens next:
- You will get invitations to all the activities that take place in the International Buddy Program, where you can immediately go and meet other students.
- The International Buddy team will start finding your match, and send you the contact details of your matching partner. (Oct/Nov and Apr/May)
- If you match with someone, both partners will receive an email simultaneously so they can both take action.
- Some local buddies might actually be able to help with finding accommodation and visiting government offices, but they are not obligated to do so.
- Matching starts by mid-October because most students only register once they are (back) in Karlsruhe.

2. Participate in Welcome Week and Social Events

Why is this important?

Welcome events are the best opportunity to meet other students, learn about KIT, and feel comfortable in your new environment.

Steps to take:

Welcome Week (O-Phase):
- What: A week-long series of events organized by IStO and student initiatives, including campus tours, information sessions, and social activities.
- How: You’ll receive information via email or from your buddy. Attend as many events as possible.
General Social Events:
- What: Throughout the semester, various student groups and IStO organize parties, cultural nights, and workshops.
- How: Check your emails, the IStO website, and notice boards for event schedules.

3. Find Interest-Based Groups (Dance, Sports, etc.)

Why is this important?

Joining clubs and groups based on your interests helps you make friends, relax, and feel part of the community.

Steps to take:

KIT Student Clubs and Organizations:
- Where: You can find a list of all student organizations on the KIT website under “Studentische Gruppen” or “Student Organizations.”
- How: Browse the list for clubs related to your interests (e.g., dance, sports, music, photography). Contact the club via email or social media to ask about joining.
Social Media Groups:
- Where: Facebook, Whatsapp, Discord.
- How: Search for groups like “KIT Dance Club,” “KIT Sports,” or “KIT [your interest].” Join these groups to get updates on meetings and events.
- Tip: If you can’t find a group for your interest, ask your buddy or classmates—they might know of informal groups or be interested in starting one with you.

4. Connect with Your Ethnic Community

Why is this important?

Connecting with students from your own country or cultural background provides comfort, support, and a sense of belonging.

Steps to take:

Ethnic and Cultural Clubs:
- Where: Some student clubs at KIT focus on specific nationalities or cultures (e.g., Indian, Chinese, African student associations).
- How: Check the KIT student organizations list or ask your buddy about these clubs. Attend their events to meet others from your background.
Social Media and Professional Networks:
- Where: Facebook, WhatsApp, WeChat (for Chinese students), LinkedIn, Instagram.
- How:
  - Facebook/WhatsApp: Search for groups like “KIT [your country] Students” or “Karlsruhe [your ethnicity] Community.” Join these groups to share information, ask questions, and organize meetups.
  - LinkedIn: Search for KIT alumni or current students from your country. Join LinkedIn groups related to your nationality or field of study to network and find mentors.
  - Instagram: Follow hashtags like #KITKarlsruhe, #KIT[yourcountry], or #KarlsruheInternational. Many student organizations and communities post event updates and stories here.
University Events:
- What: IStO and student groups organize international evenings or cultural festivals where different communities present their culture.
- How: Attend these events to meet students from your country and learn about other cultures.

5. Access Psychological Help and Support

Why is this important?

Studying abroad can be challenging, and psychological support is available to help you cope and succeed.

Steps to take:

Psychological Counseling at Studierendenwerk Karlsruhe:
- What: Offers free, confidential support for all students at KIT and other local universities. Services include individual therapy, group workshops, crisis intervention, and advice on stress management, test anxiety, loneliness, and relationship problems.
- How: Contact PBS via the Studierendenwerk Karlsruhe website to make an appointment. Services are available in multiple languages.
AStA (General Students’ Committee):
- What: Offers counseling for social, legal, and personal matters, including support for students with mental or physical disabilities.
- How: Visit the AStA office or website for information and to arrange a counseling session.
KIT Support Services:
- What: KIT’s Student Advisory Services (ZSB) and International Students Office (IStO) can help you find the right support if you’re experiencing difficulties.
- How: Visit the ZSB or IStO office or website for more information and guidance.

6. Use University Resources and Stay Connected

Why is this important?

KIT offers many resources to help you succeed academically and personally. Staying connected ensures you get the support you need.

Steps to take:

International Students Office (IStO):
- What: Offers language courses, academic advice, and help with administrative processes.
- How: Visit the IStO website or office for information and support.
Stay Active:
- Keep in touch with your buddy, attend club and university events, and use social media to stay informed.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it—your buddy, IStO, and student groups are there to support you.

7. ESN (Erasmus Student Network) – Optional for All International Students

Why is this important?

ESN organizes social and cultural events for international students. While it is most closely associated with Erasmus students, many events are open to all international students.

Steps to take (if interested):

Where: ESN Karlsruhe website, Facebook, Instagram.
How: Check their event calendar. You can attend most events even if you’re not an Erasmus student.

Summary Table

Step	Action	Where/How to Find It
1	Register for Buddy Program	KIT website, IStO
2	Participate in Welcome Week and Events	IStO, emails, notice boards
3	Find Interest-Based Groups	KIT clubs, Facebook, WhatsApp
4	Connect with Ethnic Community	Ethnic clubs, Facebook, WhatsApp, LinkedIn, Instagram, university events
5	Access Psychological Help and Support	Studierendenwerk Karlsruhe, AStA, IStO
6	Use University Resources and Stay Connected	IStO, Buddy Program, student groups
7	ESN (optional)	ESN Karlsruhe website, social media

Extra Tips

Language Support: If you’re not confident in English or German, let your buddy or IStO know. They can help you find language courses or connect you with students who speak your language.
Ask Questions: Don’t be shy to ask for help or information—everyone at KIT is used to supporting international students.
Explore Karlsruhe: Take time to explore the city and its surroundings. Student groups often organize trips and city tours.

By following these steps, you’ll have a strong support network from your first day at KIT, helping you integrate socially, academically, and culturally, while also connecting with your interests, ethnic community, and psychological support services. LinkedIn and Instagram are now included as valuable channels for networking and community connection.