Making Friends With International Students: A Guide

Making friends as an international student can be challenging, but it's a rewarding experience that can broaden your horizons and help you see life from a fresh perspective. Befriending international students can be an enriching experience for both parties, as it allows for cultural exchange and the development of lifelong friendships. It can be difficult for international students to adjust to a new country, with different accents, transportation, and cultural norms. However, by taking the initiative to reach out, be curious about others, and embrace new experiences, international students can form meaningful connections. Similarly, locals can benefit from stepping out of their comfort zones, challenging stereotypes, and learning about other cultures by welcoming international students into their social circles.

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Embrace differences in culture and customs

International students bring a wealth of cultural and customs differences, and embracing these differences is an essential step in building meaningful friendships. Here are some ways to embrace and navigate these differences:

Firstly, be open-minded and curious about their traditions and ways of life. Understand that there is no single "right" way to live or do things, and be receptive to new and different approaches. For example, some cultures value age or title when showing respect, while others focus on individual achievements. Recognise and respect these differences without judgement.

Secondly, be sensitive to the challenges they may face in adjusting to a new culture. For instance, they may find it challenging to navigate the informal nature of some cultures, the value placed on privacy, or the pace and punctuality expectations of their host country. Be patient and offer support as they navigate these new cultural norms.

Additionally, create opportunities to learn about their customs and share yours. Invite them to cook or shop for ethnic groceries and ask them to teach you about their favourite dishes and ingredients. This provides a practical need and also allows them to share a piece of their home with you. Similarly, social events and gatherings can be a great way to introduce them to social norms and expectations in an approachable and fun setting.

Furthermore, be mindful of communication styles and slang. Initially, communication may be challenging due to accents, slang, or language barriers. Be patient, speak clearly, and avoid using too much local slang to ensure effective communication and foster understanding.

Lastly, be proactive in initiating conversations and activities. International students may face difficulties in making friends and may feel discouraged. Take the first step by saying hello, asking about their day, or inviting them to join you in everyday activities or errands. This simple gesture can make a significant difference in helping them feel welcomed and valued.

Embracing cultural and customs differences is a rewarding and enriching experience that fosters tolerance, understanding, and lifelong friendships. By following these steps, you can create an inclusive and welcoming environment, making it easier for international students to adjust and thrive in their new environment.

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Be curious about their experiences

International students often want to immerse themselves in the host culture and learn about the lives of locals. They are curious about you, so be curious about them! Ask them about their experiences and listen to what they have to say. Ask them about their hobbies and passions, where they're from, and why they chose to study at this particular university or in this country.

You can also ask them about their culture and their country's traditions. Ask them to teach you about the food they eat back home and how to prepare some of their favourite dishes. You could even offer to cook a meal together. Ask them about the differences they've noticed between their home country and their host country, and be open to learning about the world from their perspective. Ask them about their experiences of adjusting to a new culture and the challenges they've faced.

If you're hosting an international student, you can help them navigate the cultural differences they may encounter. For example, students from some cultures may be accustomed to a more formal structure and may find it unusual to use first names and dress casually. They may also come from cultures where group identity is prioritised over individualism, and where respect is given based on age or title rather than personal achievement. Understanding and being sensitive to these differences can help you support your new friend as they adapt to life in a new country.

Remember that international students are often very busy, so finding time for friendship can be challenging. Be mindful of their time and be flexible—offer to join them on errands or during their lunch break if they don't have time to go home. Making an effort to spend time with them, even if it's just a quick walk or a short chat, shows that you care and that the relationship is important to you.

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Connect over shared interests

Connecting with international students over shared interests is a great way to forge new friendships. International students bring a wealth of diverse experiences and perspectives, and by embracing these, you can create meaningful connections and enrich your own life.

On-Campus Activities

University life offers numerous opportunities to connect with international students through shared interests. Joining clubs and societies is an excellent way to meet people with similar passions. Whether it's sports, drama, academic clubs, or even a hobby like Quidditch or 90s movies, these shared interests provide the perfect icebreakers. During the first few weeks of university, friendship groups are still forming, so it's the ideal time to join these groups and get to know your peers.

Academic Pursuits

Collaborating on group projects and study sessions is another way to connect with international students. Working together provides ample time to chat, exchange ideas, and celebrate successes. Don't limit yourself to working only with fellow international students; reach out to local students as well. Social media platforms, like Facebook and Twitter, can help you connect with classmates and stay informed about upcoming events.

Daily Life Activities

Shared living spaces, such as student halls, often have resident social committees that organize fun events for all residents. These gatherings are excellent opportunities to meet international students and bond over new experiences. Cooking and sharing meals together is a great way to connect. Offer to take your international friends grocery shopping, especially if they don't have a car, and ask them to teach you about their favourite dishes from their home country.

Language Exchange

Learning a new language is not only a valuable skill but also a fantastic way to connect with international students. Look for language exchange programs or tutors who offer cultural and language learning in informal settings, such as over a cup of coffee. This can facilitate friendships through dialogue and role-play, and you'll also gain insight into different cultures.

Off-Campus Explorations

Exploring your city and participating in local activities can also help you connect with international students. They are often eager to immerse themselves in the host culture and will appreciate your guidance. Invite them to local events, sports games, or outdoor activities. Celebrate domestic holidays together and introduce them to unique aspects of your culture. These shared experiences will create lasting memories and strengthen your bond.

Remember, embracing shared interests with international students is a rewarding way to expand your understanding of the world and create lifelong friendships.

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Break stereotypes and prejudices

Befriending international students can be a rewarding experience that broadens your perspective and helps break stereotypes and prejudices. Here are some ways to actively break stereotypes and prejudices when befriending international students:

Embrace Diversity and Be Open-Minded

Recognize that each person is unique, regardless of their nationality or background. Avoid making assumptions or generalizations about international students based on preconceived notions or stereotypes. Embrace the opportunity to learn about different cultures, traditions, and ways of thinking. Be open-minded and respectful of differences, even if they challenge your own beliefs or norms.

Challenge Stereotypes Through Conversation

Engage in meaningful conversations with international students to break down stereotypes and prejudices. Be curious about their experiences, beliefs, and perspectives. Ask open-ended questions about their home country, culture, and personal interests. By actively listening and showing genuine interest, you can gain a deeper understanding of their individuality and dispel any preconceived notions.

Participate in Cultural Activities

Immerse yourself in cultural activities and events organized by international student groups or cultural associations on campus. Attend international food festivals, movie nights featuring foreign films, cultural exhibitions, or language exchange programs. By participating in these activities, you can gain firsthand experience of different cultures and challenge any stereotypes you may have encountered.

Address Unconscious Biases

Unconscious biases are the stereotypes and prejudices we may hold without even realizing it. Be mindful of your own assumptions and actively question them. For example, if you find yourself thinking that all students from a particular country are studious and quiet, challenge that assumption by seeking out diverse interactions. Recognize that within any cultural group, there is a wide range of personalities and interests.

Foster an Inclusive Environment

Create an environment that is welcoming and inclusive for international students. Be mindful of your behavior and language to ensure everyone feels valued and respected. Avoid making jokes or using slang that might be offensive or insincere according to different cultural norms. Encourage an atmosphere where differences are celebrated, and everyone feels comfortable sharing their unique perspectives without fear of judgment.

By actively breaking stereotypes and prejudices, you not only enrich your own life but also contribute to a more tolerant and inclusive community. These steps will help foster meaningful connections and create a supportive environment for international students, making their transition to a new country smoother and more enjoyable.

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Be mindful of their priorities and time

Making friends as an international student can be challenging. Culture shock, language barriers, and differences in social norms can make it difficult for international students to form meaningful connections. However, there are ways to navigate these challenges and build lasting friendships.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that international students may have different priorities and time management styles. While they value their academic studies and maintaining their immigration status, they also seek to immerse themselves in the host culture and expand their horizons. This may mean that they are open to new experiences and eager to make the most of their time abroad, resulting in a packed schedule. As a host or fellow student, being mindful of their busy schedule and finding opportunities to spend time together is crucial. Suggest studying together or running errands, such as grocery shopping, which combines practical needs with social interaction.

Additionally, cultural differences in punctuality and time perception should be considered. In some cultures, events may start later than the time stated on an invitation, whereas Americans, for example, tend to "live by the clock" and value punctuality. Being respectful of each other's time and adapting to different time concepts will facilitate a smoother friendship.

Furthermore, international students may face challenges in navigating social relationships. Americans, for instance, may be perceived as open and friendly, but developing deeper friendships may take time. International students might find American culture more informal than what they are accustomed to, with a higher value placed on self-reliance and individualism. Understanding these cultural nuances and being sensitive to the student's cultural background will help create a more inclusive environment.

Lastly, remember that international students may have different communication styles and religious beliefs. Using social media platforms or text messaging can be a comfortable way to stay connected and build relationships. Respecting their beliefs and sharing your own experiences, such as what God has been showing you in your personal time, can create a deeper bond.

By being mindful of their priorities, time constraints, cultural differences, and communication styles, you can foster meaningful friendships with international students and create a supportive environment for them during their time abroad.

Frequently asked questions