10 Ways To Make Friends When Studying Abroad
You are studying abroad and have difficulties making a friend? In this article, you will learn ways to socialize and build a friendship in a foreign country. Here are 10 ways to make friends when studying abroad.
1. Speak to people
It might seem like a very simple thing to do but a lot of people have difficulties going to people and engaging the conversation. The best time to make friends is within the first few weeks of university. Friendship groups won’t have fully formed yet so it will make it easier to approach people. So, go talk to people even if you are scarred of being rejected. You will never know if you don’t try, right?
2. Go to orientation
This is optional but it’s a great way to meet fellow international students before they have settled into a group of friends. Once you have found some student you might be interested in knowing more, suggest hanging out at a local café or somewhere else on the campus.
3. Make friends with students from your class
In your class, you will meet like-minded people that aspire to the same career as you. It’s easy to start a conversation with someone in your field of interest. Choose a program course that you are passionate about and you will automatically find potential friends. You will spend at least one or two semesters together, you will see them in almost every single one of your class so try to befriend them.
4. Join a society
You have to know that many people that are joining clubs are also looking to make friends. So, take this chance and join one. Joining a society will give you the opportunity to meet students with similar interests to yours. Universities or colleges proposes a wide range of societies. So, you can be sure to find one that suits your taste.
5. Go to as many events as you can
In general, universities will hold events to get new students together. Grab these opportunities to go to as many events as you can. Chances are that other students are also there to make friends.
6. Spend less time in your room
The key to making friends is to actually go outside and meet people. You can’t build a friendship if you are stuck in your room all day long.
7. Use social media
There are several Facebook groups dedicated to events, hobbies. Your class may also have a Facebook group you can join in. This is a great way to reach out to your classmates on social media. You can find out more about them and try to engage in a conversation. You can also join your University Facebook pages and Twitter account so you will be informed of future events.
8. Live in student accommodation
Sharing a flat with a fellow student is one of the best ways to make friends. Living in halls is a great way to meet other students. But be careful to not spend too much time in your room and go talk to your flatmates.
9. Get a buddy
Buddies are students here to help you get on your feet. They are usually provided by universities to help new students out. Buddies are there if you need to talk to someone and gives you advice. They sometimes act as mentors.
10. Throw a party
Throwing a party is one of the best ways to socialize with college or university students. It is a known fact that students love to party.
