Meet Lama Ghanem, an economics student minoring in mathematics at the Beirut campus. Her interests include exploring hidden gems, adventures, nature, and nightlife.

 

“After my Erasmus semester in Poland, I realized how much difference it makes to have someone guide and support you during an exchange. I’d love to help outgoing students make the most of their time abroad, just as I did. I’m also excited to welcome international students and share with them the beauty of Lebanese culture, traditions, and everyday life, so they can truly feel at home here.”

Meet Sophia Haddad, a political science and international affairs student at the Byblos campus. She is singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist and a music lover. Her hobbies include stargazing, traveling, reading, poetry, and binge-watching series.

 

“My job? To make sure you leave Lebanon with a full heart, a full stomach, and at least one ‘you had to be there’ story that sounds completely unbelievable.”

Meet Kris Noun, an IT management student at the Beirut campus. He enjoys spending my time in nature, capturing moments through photography, and going for runs.

 

“I joined the Buddy Program because I truly enjoy connecting with people from different cultures and creating a welcoming space for them. I’m excited to help international students explore Lebanon’s landscapes, traditions, and everyday life, while also exchanging stories and learning from their perspectives. My hope is that, by the time you leave, Lebanon won’t be just a random country you visited, but a place you once called home.”

Meet Charbel Noujeim, a mechanical engineering student at the Byblos campus. His interests include graphic design, listening to music, and going out with friends.

 

“I joined the Buddy program to welcome incoming international students and leave them with great memories of their time in Lebanon, while also learning about their diverse backgrounds.”

Meet Rana Tofailli, an economics student minoring in Philosophy at the Beirut campus. She is a big fan of reading, cinema, artistic makeup, and music.

 

“Although I had such an amazing experience during my exchange, I struggled a bit in preparation for my semester abroad. The ISP office tried their best to help with the course transfer process, but at times I wished I had someone who had previously studied on exchange and could help me stress a bit less. There were so many anxieties that could have probably been mediated had I known someone who could alleviate the stress and fear before leaving. This is why after coming back, I immediately knew I would want to be a buddy and help guide students as much as possible. It can feel scary, but with the right support system, it doesn’t have to be that way. My semester was the best decision I had ever made!”

Meet Miral Maarouf, an IT management student at the Beirut campus. Her interests include sports, cinema, and food.

 

“I joined the Buddy Program because I wanted to share my exchange experience and connect with other students who are on the same exciting journey. I hope I can help new students adapt smoothly to life in Lebanon and make them feel at home.I want to show them the warmth, beauty, and unique charm this country has to offer.”

Meet Antoine Wakim, an industrial engineering student at the Byblos campus. His interests include languages, vlogging, and exploring new cultures

 

“I’m Antoine, a second-year industrial engineering student. I joined the buddy program to warmly welcome incoming students, helping them feel at home in Lebanon and see beyond the negative media portrayals to its true warmth, cultural richness, and hospitality. Being able to communicate in Arabic, English, French, Spanish, and good enough Portuguese helps me to connect with people from different backgrounds and make them feel included. I also want to support outgoing students with guidance and tips so they can adapt easily and make the most of their time abroad.”

Meet Lea Aoude, an economics student at the Byblos campus. Her interests include music, Formula 1, and reading.

 

“I joined the program because I’m curious. I love being exposed to diversity and challenging limits, which makes me hope we can bridge international barriers together!!”

Meet Rafi Daou, a political science and international affairs student minoring in gender studies and conflict analysis and resolution at then Beirut campus. Rafi enjoys reading, playing tennis, cross-cultural exchange, and exploring politics, governance, and social issues. His interests include women’s rights advocacy, community service, and youth leadership.

 

“I joined the Buddy Program to help international students feel welcomed and supported at LAU, drawing from my own experience of Lebanon’s warmth, hospitality, and cultural richness. Growing up in a country known for its diversity and openness, I wanted to share that same spirit with students from around the world, helping them navigate campus life and connect meaningfully with the community.”

Meet Leelya Odeh, a psychology major minoring in advertising and PR. She enjoys reading and watching tennis, and if she’s feeling active, you will find her swimming or in the gym!

 

“I joined the buddy program because, as an international student myself, I understand the struggles and challenges that come with living and studying in a new country. Lebanon now feels like home to me and I love it as if it is. It would be so fulfilling if i could help or support another international student’s journey here!”

Meet Dayana Abou Assaly, a communications student minoring in advertising and public relations at the Beirut Campus. Her interests include exploring new places, traveling, and visiting coffee shops and bars.

 

“I joined the buddy program because during my exchange semester at Sciences Po Paris the “welcome week” was one of the memorable parts of my experience. It gave me chance to explore the city, try new things, and meet amazing people who became some of my closest friends. I want to give back by helping new students feel as welcomed and excited as I did.”

Meet Nour Obeid, a business student finishing double emphasis: marketing and finance, minoring in hospitality management, psychology, and data analytics. Her hobbies and interests include reading, creative writing, painting, knitting, creating digital content, organizing events, spending time with friends, exploring outdoor activities, and relaxing at the beach, all while keeping an active and fulfilling schedule.

 

“I joined the Buddy Program to guide new students through the challenges of starting university, offering them the support I wish I had in my first year. Over the past year or so, I’ve built lasting connections and contributed to a welcoming campus culture.”

Meet Catherine Azar, a hospitality and tourism management student minoring in food science management. She is passionate about meeting new people, reading, acting, crafts, scout, and volunteering. She is also a firefighter cadet and a student pilot.

 

“Discovering new cultures and making new friends truly sums me up as a person. The Buddy Program not only combines these two passions, but also offers so much more. I look forward to welcoming international students to our beautiful Lebanon and to guiding Lebanese students through their exchange journey with warmth and support.”

Meet Sibelle El Saneh, an international Affairs/political science student minoring in public relations. She is passionate about photography, reading, music, Formula1. She is a big fan of Drake and crêpes!

 

 

“I joined the buddy program because I genuinely enjoy meeting new people and learning about different cultures and perspectives. As someone who’s sociable and loves deep conversations, I see this as a great opportunity to connect with exchange students and make them feel welcome away from home. I’m passionate about sharing the best of Lebanon, from our delicious traditional dishes like Kousa and Moghrabiyeh, which they will definitely get to taste, to our beautiful scenery and culture. I want to be a friendly guide and support system during their stay, helping them navigate any challenges and making sure they have a memorable, fun, and enriching experience here. It’s also a chance for me to grow personally by broadening my own horizons and building lasting friendships.”