English Conversation Club
Meet like-minded peers and improve your English in no time
Find out moreBuddy Program
Are you new to Macquarie University or Sydney? Come along to our Buddy Program events to meet new people, expand your network and have fun exploring Sydney while immersing yourself in the student life.
The Buddy Program is a peer support network providing support to students, both domestic and international, to assist their transition into Macquarie University. It aims to deliver ongoing social support through peer relationships and social activities on and off campus to students and help make your transition into your new life at Macquarie University easier.
The buddy program organises many social events and activities throughout the semester including:
- Campus tours
- Social activities on campus
- Local tours in and around Sydney (such as Taronga Zoo, bushwalking, night markets to name a few)
Who are buddies?
Buddies are current and experienced Macquarie students who volunteer to support other students through the Buddy Program.
Aims of the Buddy Program
- encourage a sense of belonging and community within Macquarie University for new and continuing students (both Domestic and International students)
- welcome new international students to Australia, Sydney, and Macquarie University
- deliver ongoing social support to new students through peer relationships, and
- share information about the various university services and supports available to students.
Upcoming Buddy events
All current students at Macquarie can sign up for Buddy activities and events.
Follow our social media to be the first to know about new events:
- Student events page
- Or sign up to get notified!
Session 1 2024
Chinese Garden of Friendship & Chinatown Night Market (5 April, 1pm – 5pm) | Escape from the hustle and bustle to a serene, secluded garden - Darling Harbour’s Chinese Garden of Friendship. The walled Chinese Garden respectfully recreates the philosophy and harmony of a traditional Chinese garden in its waterfalls, lakes, exotic plants, pavilions and hidden pathways. And Chinatown’s famous Friday Night Markets are one of Sydney’s most popular late-night shopping hotspots, showcasing local designers, delicious Asian street food and unique products to locals and tourists. This event is free to join but you'll need to pay for food, drinks and public transport. Meet at 1 Central Courtyard with your opal card and drink bottle. | |
Taronga Zoo (13 April, 9.30am – 3.30pm) | Join us for an exciting day of discovery at Taronga Zoo, Sydney's iconic harbourside zoo. This special event, organised by the Macquarie University Buddies program, is a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow students, learn about wildlife conservation and enjoy stunning harbour views. | Ticket price: $25 |
| Soccer Game: Sydney FC v Western Sydney Wanderers (Saturday 13th April 2024 - Kickoff @ 7:45pm) | We are giving away more free tickets for Sydney FC v Western Sydney Wanderers! We ask that you wear your Macquarie Uni merch (Shirt, hoodie, cap etc..) with pride for the game so we all stand out and it's a good opportunity to meet your fellow students at the game. Space is limited, first in first serve! | Register now |
| Blue Mountain Day Trip (Wednesday 17 April 2024, 7.15am – 5.30pm) | Embark on a Blue Mountain day trip filled with adventure and natural wonders. Hike the scenic Wentworth Falls Track, marvel at the iconic Three Sisters from Echo Point lookout, and wander amidst the autumn leaves at Mt Tomah Botanic Garden. End your day with apple picking in a charming orchard. Experience the beauty of the Blue Mountains in one unforgettable journey. Book now for adventure, beauty, and seasonal delights! | Ticket price: $30 Register now |
Weekly Events
English Conversation Club
Dates: Every Tuesday or Thursday, 12pm - 1pm (excluding mid-session break)
Location: Library Building, level 4, room M4.01
Want to get better at speaking English?
Come along to the Buddies run English Conversation Club! Here the Buddies provide a casual fun and supportive environment to practice your English.
Show up, meet like-minded peers and improve your English in no time!
Weekly Board Games Night
Dates:
- Thursday 4 April, 5.30pm - 7pm
- Tuesday 9 April, 5.30pm - 7pm
- Thursday 2 May, 5.30pm - 7pm
- Tuesday 7 May, 5.30pm - 7pm
- Thursday 16 May, 5.30pm - 7pm
- Tuesday 21 May, 5.30pm - 7pm
Location:
- 14SCO: Ground Floor, Graduation Hall, 14 Sir Christopher Ondaatje Avenue)
A place for you to play board games and casually meet new friends in a supportive, fun and relaxed environment.
Interested in volunteering?
Expression of Interest to become a Buddy is now closed for Session 1, 2024.
If you have successfully completed at least one session as a Peer mentor/Peer leader, you can also apply to be a Buddy team leader.
