The Buddy Program is one of ESN’s largest and most successful programs.
Its goal is to introduce together students from across different backgrounds and disciplines and foster new friendships that will hopefully last for a lifetime. Divided into family groups of 10 to 15 people, members complete challenges and participate in various activities. Challenges and activities carry points which count towards the Battle of the Buddy Families, a competitive side of the program where groups fight against each other to win the grand prize. The family with the most points at the end of the semester wins.

This year, the Buddy Program has been meticiliously reshaped and evolved. Introducing The Realm of Cards, a unique theme inspired by contemporary popculture surrounding playing cards, traps and challenges, Buddy Families will have to complete and compete with each other in events themed after each of the four suites (♠ ♢ ♣ ♡). Some activities will be open to all members while others will be specifically designed for Buddy Families. And they will have numbers: the higher the number, the higher the difficulty; but so too will the reward be. Deciphering the theme of each suite is essential in gaining a key competitive advantage.