Starting a PhD is exciting and full of practical questions you didn't know you would have. Where do I find the right facilities? How does this department actually work? Who can help me with…?

To make those first months easier, the Doctoral School encourages every new PhD candidate at Amsterdam UMC to appoint a buddy: a fellow PhD candidate who shows you the ropes during your first six months.

What is a buddy?

A buddy is an experienced PhD candidate who works at your department and who helps you find your way around. A buddy can help you with:

  • Practical matters: facilities, IT, lab or clinic routines, administrative processes, and everything else that is obvious to everyone except you
  • Finding your place: introducing you to colleagues and the informal network at your department
  • Knowing where to go: pointing you to the right support
  • Asking anything: a buddy is someone you can ask the questions you hesitate to ask your supervisor

A buddy is not a supervisor, mentor, or coach. Your buddy will not discuss the content of your research, your supervision, or personal problems, but will know where you can find help if you need it.

Who can be a buddy?

  • A PhD candidate who works at your department
  • Who has been working on their PhD for at least one year
  • Who is willing to meet for a short check-in (e.g. every two weeks) during your first months

How does it work?

  1. Find a buddy. Ask your supervisor or colleagues to introduce you to a suitable PhD candidate, or approach someone yourself.
  2. Agree on expectations. Discuss what you would like help with and how often you will meet. A short coffee break once every two weeks is a good starting point.
  3. After six months, the formal role ends. You may stay in touch informally, that is up to you.

No registration, no paperwork: the arrangement is entirely between you and your buddy.

For supervisors

Appointing a buddy for your new PhD candidate is a small investment with a big return: a smoother start, fewer practical questions landing on your desk, and a better-integrated team member. When a new PhD candidate joins your group, consider proposing a buddy from your department as part of their onboarding.

For buddies

Being a buddy takes little time, but makes a real difference to someone's start. What makes a good buddy:

  • Be available and approachable: a short check-in every two weeks is enough
  • Point people in the right direction rather than solving everything yourself, also see this PhD Safety & Support Guide 
  • Know the limits of the role: you are not a supervisor, coach or confidant