How to Make Friends in College: Tips for International Students
Making friends is, in fact, the most essential element of a successful life experience while studying abroad. Usually, when we move to another country, we don't have support from family, friends, teachers, etc.
So, moving abroad for the first time can be tricky.
However, focusing on a few things can help you make friends quickly and enjoy the adventure of being an international student in another country. So what can you do to make good friends in a new country?
Why is it essential to start a conversation?
Building relationships with people in each of your classes not only opens up a circle of friends but also creates a resource from which you can borrow notes if one day you have to miss a class. Initiating conversations with classmates is critical for several reasons. In addition to creating a support network, it also helps develop a sense of belonging and improve the overall college experience.
By stepping out of your comfort zone and taking the first step, you form connections and contribute to creating a positive and inclusive campus environment. Remember that many of your peers may be similarly nervous, so taking the initiative can make a big difference in building relationships.
Tips for starting a conversation
Be approachable: smile, have open body language, and be friendly. If you want to talk with someone, look for these qualities in one of your classmates. A smile indicates a willingness to communicate. However, don't be afraid of starting a conversation with someone who doesn't smile because they might be nervous.
1. Start small. If you want to break the ice, start with simple greetings or compliments. "I like this shirt" goes a long way.
2. Ask for recommendations, explanations or help. Some people like to support, so if you ask for help in a right way, you’ll get in addition a great acquaintance. “I can’t write my paper on this topic. Please, could you help me?”
3. Find common ground. Observe your surroundings or class-related topics to start a conversation.
* "Did I see you in history class at 8 a.m.? I'm sitting in the back of the class, and I think I saw you come in."
* "Have you heard anything about Professor X? I heard he's friendly but tough. "
4. Ask open-ended questions. Encourage meaningful dialogue by asking questions that require more than a simple yes or no answer.
* Instead of "Did you like the guest speaker today?" try "What did you think of today's guest speaker?"
5. Actively listen: Show genuine interest and participate in the conversation by listening carefully and responding thoughtfully. If you are timid, this may take some practice. Once you overcome your shyness, you may focus on what to say next rather than what the other person says. However, if you listen carefully, you will understand how to continue the conversation naturally.
6. Be respectful and inclusive. Adhere to diversity and be mindful of different perspectives and experiences. We all have different religious or political beliefs. Someone could be a genuinely wonderful person and disagree with your choice, but you can remain friends and develop precious relationship.
7. Practice empathy: put yourself in others' shoes and be understanding and supportive.
8. Ask for advice about lunch. Everyone must eat. Food is a great way to break the ice and bond over shared interests. Try asking another conference participant:
* "I haven't taken anything from the buffet yet. Is there anything I should try?"
* "I'm from another city. Can you recommend a coffee shop for lunch?"
They might share their favorite foods with you, and you might even find a new friend to dine with.
Remember that the key to a successful conversation is being sincere, showing interest, and actively listening to your classmates' responses. Use these introductory conversations as a starting point, but feel free to adapt them or develop your own based on the situation and context. Take advantage of the opportunity to network, be open-minded, and remember that everyone is on the college journey together. Step out of your comfort zone and enjoy the benefits of creating a supportive and dynamic student community.
How to Meet People in College
Attending events and joining student groups or clubs can help you make potential friends, have fun, and discover new interests and communities.
Attend Freshers' Week events.
You can meet new people if you attend student events or participate in activities and clubs.
Some examples of Freshers' Week events include:
- Student Club and Community Fairs;
- Concerts and live music;
- Sport games;
- Club nights and parties;
- Campus Tours;
- Team building events;
- Barbecue, lunches, and dinners.
Events and parties like these are great places to meet other students. Most first-year students don't know many people, and everyone is eager to make friends! So, even if new events take you out of your comfort zone, try to attend a few and make yourself known.
Join university clubs and student societies.
University clubs and societies are a great way to make friends because they are free and fun and bring together people with common interests. Most universities have a variety of clubs, so there is something for everyone. Here are some examples:
- Sports and entertainment clubs
- Political clubs
- Cultural clubs
- Performing and Visual Arts Societies
- Religious and spiritual groups
- Academic club
- Volunteering and community initiatives
- Social Justice and Activism Societies
Choose whatever you like, enjoy the time, and make new friends!#
Say yes to invitations
When you start at a new university, you'll likely receive invitations to campus events, student parties, academic meetings, and personal meetings.
While attending these events alone or without knowing anyone may seem intimidating, we encourage you to say yes to any invitation you receive. You have nothing to lose, and you never know where you will meet a new friend or gain an exciting new experience.
Spend time in public places.
Sometimes, meeting new people is as simple as spending time in public places, and college campuses are full of them.
If you live on campus, your student housing will likely have a shared living room. If you spend some of your free time there, you will have a better chance of meeting new people and conversing.
If you don't live on campus, there are still plenty of common areas to explore. For example, try hanging out in cafeterias, student union buildings, and libraries.
Get together with a classmate for social events.
If you're nervous or shy about attending a social event alone, why not team up with a classmate or friend and go together? You will feel much more confident entering a new social situation if you have someone familiar with you.
Have a potluck dinner with other international students.
Hosting a potluck dinner is a fun way to meet other international students. If you don't know what’s that, a potluck dinner is a meal where each guest brings a dish of their choice. This activity is great because it allows everyone to try new foods from different countries. And you have something to talk about when discussing dishes and exchanging recipes!
Conclusion
The secret to finding friends is to take the initiative. You can't wait for someone else to talk to you. Therefore, you must search for situations that will help you meet new people. Then speak to them - be friendly, and if you talk to enough people, you'll make great friends for life!
Although meeting people may seem daunting initially, it is worth it and is an integral part of your international education. Knowing how to make friends in college will make your time as an international student much more fun. You will build lasting friendships and positive connections. So smile and say hello - you might meet your new best friend.