Lana Oconnell
Making friends as an international student can be challenging, but it is a rewarding experience that can lead to lifelong friendships. International students often face cultural and linguistic barriers, but by actively immersing themselves in new environments, they can establish stronger connections. Joining clubs, societies, or sports teams is a great way to meet people with similar interests and provides an excellent opportunity to learn about different cultures. Additionally, participating in traditional celebrations and sharing meals can help break down barriers and foster meaningful relationships. Many universities offer a range of social activities and support services to help international students settle in and make friends. While it may be intimidating at first, reaching out and showing genuine interest in others can lead to meaningful connections and a deeper understanding of the world.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of international students worldwide | 5.3 million (2021) |
| Top host countries | United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Germany |
| Percentage of international students by region | Asia: 53%, Europe: 24%, North America: 12%, Latin America: 5%, Africa: 3%, Oceania: 2% |
| Popular subjects for international students | Business, Engineering, Math and Computer Science, Social Sciences, and Physical and Life Sciences |
| Benefits of having international student friends | Cultural exchange, language practice, diverse perspectives, expanded global network, enhanced social and communication skills |
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What You'll Learn
Challenges of making friends as an international student
Making friends as an international student comes with a unique set of challenges. One of the most significant obstacles is overcoming cultural and linguistic barriers. When navigating a new educational system in a foreign country, you may feel awkward and unsure about how to approach potential friends, especially if there are language differences. It can be challenging to express yourself fully and understand others when you don't share a common language. Additionally, cultural differences can make social interactions complex, and you may find yourself needing to adapt to new social norms and expectations.
Another challenge is finding common ground with peers. As an international student, you might feel like an outsider looking in on established friendship groups. It can be intimidating to insert yourself into existing social circles, and you may worry about not fitting in with the local students. However, it's important to remember that many local students are also navigating new social terrain and are eager to connect with others. Seek out opportunities to meet people, whether through shared classes, accommodation, or extracurricular activities.
Time and availability can also pose challenges to making friends. Studying abroad often involves a heavy academic workload, leaving less time for socialising. You may find yourself needing to balance academic commitments with your social life, and this can be tricky when trying to foster new friendships. Additionally, the transient nature of student life means that people come and go, and it can be difficult to maintain connections over time, especially if friends move on to different courses or locations.
While international students often stick together due to shared experiences and understanding, it's beneficial to branch out and be open-minded. Embrace diversity by seeking friendships with local students and those from a range of backgrounds. This can lead to more genuine and sustainable friendships and a more enriching university experience. It's important to remember that making friends takes time and varies depending on your personality and circumstances. Be patient with yourself and others, and don't be afraid to take the initiative and reach out.
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Benefits of having international student friends
Making friends with international students can be highly beneficial. Firstly, it can be a great way to embrace new cultures and learn about different traditions and perspectives. You can gain insight into various countries and expand your understanding of the world, breaking free from your bubble. For instance, you might discover that Italians have a fantastic sense of fashion or that Spanish people always seem to be happy and full of life.
Secondly, international friendships can provide a unique opportunity to learn or improve your language skills. Native speakers are the best teachers, and your international student friends will likely be patient and excited to share their language with you. You can also offer them the chance to learn your language, creating a mutually beneficial exchange.
Thirdly, making friends with international students can help you build a support network when studying or living abroad. It can be daunting to be in a new country without your usual support system of family and friends. However, international students often share similar challenges, such as language barriers and cultural differences, so they can relate to your experiences and provide valuable companionship and understanding.
Lastly, international student friends can enhance your social life and help you discover new interests and communities. Joining clubs, teams, or societies that align with your hobbies and passions is an excellent way to meet like-minded people, both international and local. These shared interests can bridge cultural and linguistic barriers, fostering strong connections and lifelong friendships. Whether it's through sports, drama, or even Quidditch, you'll find common ground and create memorable experiences together.
Overall, embracing international student friendships offers a wealth of advantages, from cultural exchange and language practice to building a supportive community and discovering new passions. So, don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, be proactive, and embrace the benefits of international friendship!
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Tips for making friends as an international student
Making friends as an international student can be challenging, but it's also an extremely rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you make friends during your time abroad:
Be proactive and social
Starting university is daunting, especially in a foreign country. It's normal to feel shy or nervous, but remember that many other students are in the same boat and are also looking to make friends. Push yourself to be social and proactive in reaching out to others. Start conversations with your classmates, roommates, and neighbours. You can also join clubs, societies, or sports teams to meet people with similar interests.
Take advantage of orientation and the first few weeks
The first few weeks of university are crucial for making friends. Friendship groups are still forming, and everyone is eager to meet new people. Participate in orientation activities, whether it's yoga, city tours, or group dining. These shared experiences are excellent opportunities to bond with your peers.
Host a get-together
If you're living in student accommodation, consider hosting a small gathering or offering some snacks and drinks. This creates an opportunity for people to get to know each other and feel more comfortable in their new environment. Just ensure that you follow any rules and guidelines of your residence.
Join clubs and societies
Universities usually offer a wide range of clubs and societies, from academic and sports clubs to more casual interest groups. These are fantastic ways to meet people with similar passions and interests. Planning events, working on projects, and solving problems together are all excellent ways to forge strong connections.
Be yourself and embrace diversity
Remember that everyone is unique, and your cultural background is a part of what makes you interesting. Embrace the diversity of your peers and be open to learning about their cultures and traditions. At the same time, don't be afraid to share your own customs and experiences. This exchange of ideas and perspectives is one of the most enriching aspects of being an international student.
Practice your conversation skills
Friendships often start with a simple conversation, so don't be afraid to strike up a chat about something light and casual, like the weather, a popular music group, or even the smell of the room! Practice makes perfect, and the more you engage in conversations, the easier it will become.
Remember, making friends takes time and effort, and it might not always be easy. Don't be discouraged if it takes a bit of trial and error. Embrace this new chapter of your life, be yourself, and enjoy the process of connecting with people from all walks of life!
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Differences in friendship expectations
Friendship expectations vary across different cultures and sexes. International students often have different expectations from their friendships, and these can be influenced by their cultural backgrounds and experiences. For instance, international students from hierarchical cultures may expect a certain level of formality or deference in their friendships, whereas students from more egalitarian cultures may prioritize equality and equal opportunities in their relationships.
Cultural Differences
International students may have different expectations regarding the nature and frequency of social interactions. For example, some cultures may value regular phone calls and steady contact, while others may be more comfortable with occasional check-ins. Additionally, international students may have different expectations regarding the observance of cultural and religious holidays, especially if their residence halls close during these periods.
Gender Differences
Research suggests that gender can also play a role in friendship expectations. Girls and women often prioritize similar values, intimacy, self-disclosure, empathetic understanding, and communication in their friendships. On the other hand, boys and men tend to place more importance on wealth, status, and physical attractiveness in their friendships. These differences can influence the dynamics of communication and interaction within friendships.
Host National Friends vs. Co-National Friends
Studies have found that international students who form friendships with host-nationals (locals) tend to report higher levels of cultural and social satisfaction. This is because host-national friends can provide a sense of belonging and help international students acculturate and adapt to their new environment. Conversely, relying solely on co-national friends (friends from the same country) can sometimes lead to lower levels of satisfaction, as co-national friends may not be able to offer the same level of cultural and social integration.
Strong vs. Weak Ties
The strength of friendships also plays a role in international students' satisfaction. While close friendships are characterized by trust, empathy, and shared experiences, weak ties or acquaintances with host-nationals can also be surprisingly beneficial. Weak ties can provide a sense of connection and support without the same level of emotional investment or vulnerability, making it easier for international students to navigate cultural differences and gain a broader perspective.
Practical Considerations
When befriending international students, it is important to be mindful of practical considerations. For example, learning how to pronounce names correctly, explaining house rules and cultural norms, accommodating dietary restrictions, and being respectful of religious and cultural practices can all impact the friendship dynamic and help create a more inclusive environment.
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Friend-making opportunities on campus
Making friends as an international student can be challenging, but there are numerous friend-making opportunities on campus that can help. Here are some strategies to find friends and build lasting connections while studying abroad:
Orientation Day and the First Few Weeks
Orientation Day is an excellent opportunity to meet other international students who are new to the campus and country. It can be intimidating, but taking the initiative to introduce yourself and start a conversation can go a long way. The first few weeks of university are crucial, as friendship groups are still forming, and most students are eager to meet new people and make friends. Leaving your door open in student accommodation and inviting neighbours for a cup of coffee or a communal dinner can create a welcoming atmosphere and foster new connections.
Joining Clubs and Societies
Universities offer a wide range of social clubs and societies, from sports teams and debate clubs to hobby-based groups like a Harry Potter fan club. Joining these groups is a great way to meet people with similar interests and provides an easy conversation starter. It's a chance to step out of your comfort zone and try new activities, such as windsurfing, yoga, or volunteering, which can lead to meaningful friendships.
Study Groups and Shared Projects
Studying abroad often comes with academic challenges, and forming study groups or working on shared projects is a perfect opportunity to make friends. Collaborating with classmates, especially on group projects, provides ample time to chat, work together, and celebrate successes. It's important to team up with local students as well as fellow international students to broaden your social circle and gain different perspectives.
Social Events and Get-Togethers
Third-party study abroad program providers often host social events like dinners, get-togethers, and pub crawls. These events are designed for students to mingle and connect with their peers. Attending these events can be an easy way to meet new people and form friendships. Similarly, joining on-campus social gatherings or hosting your own soirée can be a fun way to bring people together and create lasting memories.
Online Communities and Social Media Groups
In today's digital age, online communities and social media groups play a significant role in connecting people. There are often Facebook groups or other online platforms dedicated to expats, international students, and locals looking to make friends. Don't be afraid to reach out and post about your desire to connect with others. These groups can be a great starting point for finding friends with similar interests and experiences.
Making friends as an international student is about taking initiative, being open-minded, and stepping out of your comfort zone. By embracing these opportunities, you'll not only expand your social circle but also gain valuable cross-cultural experiences that will enrich your time on campus and beyond.
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Frequently asked questions
Making friends with international students can be the start of a rewarding, lifelong relationship. You can learn about each other's cultures, gain a new understanding of the world, and even discover a new and valuable friend.
There are many ways to make friends with international students. You can join a club or society, take part in traditional celebrations, or even just start a conversation with your classmates and fellow students.
A good way to start a conversation with an international student is to ask them about their home country or town. You can ask them what it's like, what they miss about it, and whether there are any fun traditions or celebrations. You can also ask about movies, songs, or books they like, or simply ask them to teach you some words or phrases in their language.
One challenge of making friends with international students is the potential language barrier. You may feel self-conscious about your language skills, but remember that the more you speak, the stronger your language skills will become. Cultural differences can also make it difficult to connect with international students, but this can be overcome by actively immersing yourself in their culture and traditions.
Making friends with international students can help you develop your social skills and feel more connected to your community. It can also give you a chance to learn about new cultures and gain a new perspective on the world. Additionally, international students may be feeling lonely when they first arrive, so reaching out and making friends with them can make a big difference in their lives.
