Welcoming exchange students to Linz, one step at a time

In September 2026, ÖH JKU’s Department for International Affairs (REFI) welcomed new Erasmus+ exchange students with a hike to Pöstlingberg. SNJKU members joined the walk as buddies, giving new arrivals a chance to meet local students while discovering Linz together.

REFI also created an Erasmus+ buddy system to connect exchange students with local peers. For the past two years, SNJKU members have taken part as buddies, offering a familiar face and practical support as students settle into university life in a new city.

More than a welcome activity

The hike was a simple way to begin those connections. Walking side by side left room for introductions, questions and conversations that could continue after the event. For us, being a buddy means more than attending a welcome activity. It means being someone an exchange student can turn to during their time in Linz.