HZ Community buddy -

Would you like to contribute to an inclusive and engaged HZ community? In this package, you'll take on a role centred around meeting, supporting and connecting people. You'll dedicate yourself to fellow students and help create an environment in which people feel seen and welcome.

What will you do?

You'll choose one of two directions. Option one is HZ Community buddy. As an HZ Community buddy, you'll make low-key contact with fellow students during activities organised by HZ Community and offer a listening ear where needed. Here, you'll learn to identify what's going on among students and respond by coming up with new activities. You'll also set up new activities, such as study support sessions. With option two, you'll be a buddy within the World Student Project, supporting international students during a twenty-week programme in which they play sport together, take part in cultural activities and find their place in the Netherlands.

What will you learn?

You'll develop communication skills, empathy and social responsibility. You'll learn to recognise signals, handle boundaries with care and reflect on your actions in contact with a diverse range of students. In doing so, you'll actively contribute to a safe, inclusive and connected learning environment within HZ.

This activity is made possible by HZ Community

Features

Starting block(s)

Block 1

Start time(s)

01 September 2026

Programme

Professional development

Location

HZ Vlissingen

Tests

Group presentation

Course code

HZX0018

Credits

2.5

Course year

2026

Structure of the activity "HZ Community buddy"

Daphne Mesu

Professional development

1.3 Openness and eagerness to learn
After taking part in the activity, the student is able to consciously reflect on their own actions in contact with a diverse range of students, such as during buddy conversations, group activities or events. He or she recognises situations in which emotions, tensions or uncertainty played a role and describes how these were dealt with. The student specifically identifies which actions were taken or are needed to regulate emotions, such as setting boundaries, listening actively or seeking help. Based on this reflection, the student formulates points for improvement in order to act more effectively in future encounters within the HZ community.

3.3 Empathy and compassion
During the activity, the student demonstrates an empathetic attitude by being open and respectful towards fellow students with different backgrounds, needs and experiences, including international students. He or she is able to put themselves in another's shoes, recognises signs of discomfort or a need for support, and adjusts their own actions accordingly. At the same time, the student is aware of their own boundaries and emotions and handles these with care. Through this empathetic approach, the student contributes to a safe, inclusive and connected learning and living environment within HZ.