Savanna Hoffman
Making friends as an international student can be challenging, but it is a rewarding experience that can help you feel happier and more connected. Whether you are studying abroad or hosting an international student, there are many ways to make friends and develop meaningful connections. From joining clubs and societies to participating in cultural celebrations, there are numerous opportunities to meet people and build a strong support system during your time as an international student.
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What You'll Learn
Joining societies or sports teams
If you are an international student, joining a society can be a brilliant way to integrate into university life and make friends. Societies provide a ready-made social circle, and many organise weekly social events, trips, and parties, giving you a chance to bond with your fellow members and create lasting memories. For instance, you could join a guitar club, a sign language society, or a sports team.
Societies are also an excellent way to develop transferable skills that can enhance your CV or resume. They often require managing, funding, promoting, and organising, so you can gain valuable experience in leadership, teamwork, communication, and organisation. These skills can make you a more competitive candidate for future employment and set you apart from other applicants.
If you cannot find a society that matches your interests, you could consider starting your own. You will need to check with your student union to find out their requirements, and then write an application outlining the type of society, its aims, and the events you plan to run. You will also need to attract members and form a committee to help run the society.
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Asking questions and showing interest
Making friends as an international student can be challenging, but there are many ways to connect with classmates and other students. Asking questions and showing interest in others is a great way to start conversations and build friendships.
Asking Questions
Asking questions is a great way to break the ice and get to know someone. Some good questions to ask international students include:
- "Where are you from?" This is a basic question, but it invites the other person to share information about themselves and helps you find common ground.
- "What brought you to this school?" Asking about their reasons for choosing the school can help you discover shared ambitions and interests.
- "What are your hobbies and passions?" Hobbies and passions are a great way to find similarities and common interests with others.
- "What's your favorite food/cuisine?" Food is a universal topic that everyone can relate to, and it's a great way to learn about different cultures and cuisines.
- "What are your traditions and customs from your home country?" International students love to share the best parts of their culture, and you might find something in common or learn something new.
Showing Interest
In addition to asking questions, showing genuine interest in the other person and their culture is important. Here are some ways to show interest:
- Be curious about their lives and experiences: Ask them about their goals, dreams, and ambitions. Learn about their hobbies and passions, and share your own as well.
- Be open-minded: Keep an open mind and avoid sticking to cliques or only interacting with people who are similar to you. Open-mindedness will lead to more genuine and sustainable friendships.
- Participate in social activities: Join academic clubs, interest groups, and social clubs to meet people with similar interests. Take advantage of events like dinners, get-togethers, and outings organized by your school or local businesses.
- Learn a language: Learning the local language or teaching someone your native language can be a great way to connect and show interest in each other's cultures.
Remember, everyone is unique, and you may not get along with everyone, but by asking questions and showing interest, you can increase your chances of making meaningful connections and building lasting friendships.
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Attending cultural celebrations and social events
Universities often host cultural events, such as international food fairs, holiday celebrations, and traditional festivals. For instance, the Office of International Affairs at CU Denver collaborates with various cultural student clubs to organize events like the Festival of Colors (Holi), Diwali celebrations, and the Lunar New Year. These events attract a diverse range of participants, creating an ideal environment for you to interact with others and develop new connections.
Joining student clubs and societies is another excellent way to meet people with similar interests and passions. Whether it's a sports club, a communication club, or a hobby-based group, you'll find like-minded individuals who share your interests. These clubs often organize social events, outings, and activities that facilitate interactions and help you build friendships.
Additionally, many universities have specific clubs for international students, such as International Student Organisations, which offer support, resources, and organized events tailored to students studying abroad. These organizations can provide a sense of community and help you connect with others going through similar experiences.
Attending local community events and cultural celebrations in the city is also beneficial. These events, such as the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival or cultural celebrations in the city's downtown area, offer a glimpse into the local culture and provide opportunities to interact with locals and other international students.
Lastly, don't be afraid to initiate conversations and be open to new experiences. Cultural celebrations and social events, such as New Year festivities, are perfect occasions to break the ice and meet people. Remember that others are also seeking friendship and shared interests, so embrace these events as opportunities to expand your social circle and create lasting memories.
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Working on-campus jobs
Understanding Work Authorization
International students in the US on an F-1 visa are authorized to work on-campus without requiring additional work authorization, which is a benefit compared to off-campus work opportunities. However, it's important to note that international students cannot work more than 20 hours per week during the fall and spring semesters and can work full-time (up to 40 hours per week) during summer and university breaks.
Eligibility and Requirements
To be eligible for on-campus jobs, international students must be enrolled full-time in an academic program. Additionally, at some universities, there may be minimum unit requirements to be met for payroll purposes. It is recommended to consult with the university's international student services office or an advisor to understand the specific eligibility criteria and requirements for on-campus employment.
Finding On-Campus Job Opportunities
The best place to start your job search is your college's or university's online job board, if they have one. These platforms often have an “On-Campus” filter that allows you to narrow down the listings to those that are open to international students. You can also visit potential workplaces on campus, such as the library, cafeteria, or campus box office, and inquire about any job openings.
Benefits of On-Campus Jobs
On-campus jobs offer international students the chance to gain valuable work experience in the US, which can enhance their resumes. These jobs also provide an opportunity to develop references and connections within the university. Unlike off-campus jobs, on-campus positions do not necessarily have to be related to your field of study, giving you more options to explore different areas of interest.
Limitations and Considerations
While on-campus jobs are a great option for international students, it's important to be aware of certain limitations. International students are generally not eligible for work-study positions, as these are funded by the US government specifically for US citizens and permanent residents. Additionally, federal work-study jobs are also typically not an option for international students since they do not qualify for federal financial aid.
In conclusion, on-campus jobs offer international students a convenient and accessible way to gain work experience while studying in the US. By understanding the work authorization regulations, eligibility requirements, and the job search process, international students can take advantage of these opportunities to support themselves financially and build their professional profiles.
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Hosting international students
Choosing a Student
When signing up to host an international student, you may be able to choose a student based on their home country. Some programs allow hosts to select a student from a specific country or region that they are interested in. You will also be able to choose a student that fits well with your family composition, personality types, and needs.
Communication and Expectations
Once you have been matched with a student, it is essential to establish clear communication and set expectations. Before the student's arrival, you can use email, social media, and international messaging apps to get to know each other and make the transition smoother. Be sure to include suggestions on where and when to meet and how long the initial meeting is expected to last. Remember that international students may have different cultural norms and attitudes towards time, so don't be surprised if they are late for the first meeting.
Cultural Exchange
Hosting an international student provides a unique opportunity for a cultural exchange. You will be able to learn about their culture, traditions, and cuisine, while also sharing your own way of life with them. Be prepared to embrace new experiences and step outside your comfort zone. This exchange can broaden your understanding of the world and help break stereotypes.
Daily Life and Support
As a host family, you are expected to provide the student with three meals a day and transportation to and from school and school activities. You should also include them in your family's daily life and events, treating them as a family member. Offer them the same care, support, and comfort you would give to any other member of your family. Remember that international students may face challenges due to cultural differences, such as the informality of American culture or the highly competitive academic environment. Be supportive and refer them to the international student adviser at their school for major issues.
Building a Community
Hosting an international student can also connect you with a community of other host families and students. Throughout the year, there may be opportunities to participate in volunteer-run events, field trips, and shared meals to build a network of support and connection. These interactions can lead to long-lasting relationships, and many host families develop close bonds with their student's families, even visiting them after the student returns home.
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Frequently asked questions
Making friends with international students can be the start of a lifelong relationship where you and your student friends can learn from each other and grow together. You can expand each other’s understanding of the world and discover your own city through their eyes.
There are many ways to make friends with international students. You can join a society or club, take part in traditional celebrations, or make some new dishes together. You can also start conversations with your classmates and fellow students, or take on a campus job to meet different people.
Asking where someone is from is a great way to show that you are interested in learning more about them. You can also ask what their home country is like, what they miss about home, or if they've seen any good movies or heard any good songs lately.
It is important to remember that there may be cultural and linguistic differences when making friends with international students. For example, some international students may be used to a more formal structure and may find it unusual to use first names and dress casually.
Making friends with international students can help you feel happier and more connected. Many college friends will become lifelong friends and can even host you when you visit their home country.
