Douglas Olsen
Moving to a new country as an international student is exciting but can also be challenging. One of the biggest challenges is building a social circle, which can help you feel more at home and make your time abroad more enjoyable. There are many ways to get involved in social activities as an international student, from joining clubs and societies to participating in local community events and group projects. Many universities offer specific activities and support for international students, such as international student organisations, language classes, and cultural workshops. Online platforms and apps can also help international students connect with each other and find social events and activities. Additionally, extracurricular activities like sports, art, music, and community service can provide invaluable opportunities for international students to explore interests and develop skills outside the classroom.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Clubs and Societies | Sports, arts, debate, cultural groups, etc. |
| International Student Organisations | Support, resources, and events for international students |
| Local Community Events | Sunday markets, festivals, workshops, etc. |
| Sports and Fitness Clubs | Football, basketball, swimming, etc. |
| Study Groups | Classes, study sessions, group projects, etc. |
| Online Communities | University groups on social media, apps like Unifi, BFF, Meetup, etc. |
| Cultural Exchange | Local cultural courses like cooking or dance lessons |
| Volunteering | Reforestation projects, community service, etc. |
| Internships | Opportunities for college credit |
| Networking | Networking events, conferences, mentorship programs, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Join clubs and societies
Joining clubs and societies is a great way to meet people and make friends, especially if you're nervous about casual socialising. These groups provide a structured environment with a shared goal, which makes it easier to bond with others.
Universities have societies for almost every interest, from common ones like sports, arts, and cultural groups to more niche ones. If you're an international student who wants to connect with others from similar backgrounds, you can look into joining clubs like the Asian Student Association, African Student Union, or Latin American Student Organization. Religious and spiritual groups are also available at most universities, allowing you to explore or maintain your faith while connecting with others who share your beliefs.
If you're passionate about the arts, consider joining a theatre group, music ensemble, or dance troupe. These groups provide a platform to showcase your talents and express your creativity. Many universities also offer visual art and craft societies, as well as orchestras, choirs, and dance clubs.
For those interested in leadership development and community service, leadership and service clubs are a great option. Organisations like Rotaract or Model United Nations (MUN) offer opportunities to develop leadership skills and engage in meaningful projects. Career-focused clubs, such as business or entrepreneurship clubs, can also provide valuable networking opportunities and career advice.
Sports clubs and fitness groups are another fantastic way to meet people and stay active. Many universities offer a range of sports teams, from popular choices like soccer and basketball to more unique options like the Quidditch Society.
Joining clubs and societies as an international student is a rewarding way to settle into university life, gain confidence, and create lasting memories and friendships. So, don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore the various clubs your university has to offer!
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Attend local community events
As an international student, attending local community events is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture and build a social circle. Here are some tips to guide you in this process:
Explore Local Events:
Learn about the various events happening in your area. These can include community festivals, cultural workshops, local holidays, and celebrations. Check out local calendars, follow community pages on social media, and stay updated on upcoming events.
University Events:
University campuses often host a range of events, from cultural festivals and academic lectures to social gatherings. These events are excellent opportunities to connect with fellow students and the local community. Keep an eye out for posters, newsletters, or online announcements about upcoming campus events.
Local Businesses and Markets:
Frequent local businesses, such as nearby restaurants, cafes, and markets. This supports the local economy and provides opportunities to interact with residents. Chat with shop owners, ask for recommendations, and immerse yourself in the daily life of the community.
Cultural Exchange Programs:
Look for cultural exchange programs or international student clubs that facilitate interactions between locals and international students. These programs often include cultural workshops, language courses, and social events, providing a structured way to learn about the local culture and make new friends.
Volunteering:
Volunteering is a fantastic way to contribute to the local community while building meaningful connections. Look for volunteer opportunities within your university or through local organizations. You can also explore community conservation projects or cultural exchange programs that align with your interests and values.
Attending local community events as an international student is a rewarding experience. It allows you to gain cultural insights, make new friends, and feel more integrated into your host community. Remember to be open-minded, embrace new experiences, and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone!
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Participate in sports and fitness clubs
Participating in sports and fitness clubs is a great way to meet people and stay healthy. Most universities offer a wide range of sports teams and clubs, from common sports like football and basketball to more niche activities like clay shooting and bass fishing. Joining a sports team can be a low-pressure way to meet people and make friends, as it provides a natural topic for conversation and helps you connect with others who share your interests.
If you're an international student, playing sports can also help you maintain your cultural identity and express yourself. It can even provide an opportunity to cross cultural boundaries and adapt to a new multicultural environment. For example, an international student in the US took a Capoeira class (a Brazilian martial art) as part of their exchange program in Brazil, which gave them insight into Brazilian culture.
To get started, you can look into the sports teams and clubs offered by your university. Many universities offer both competitive and recreational options, so you can choose the level that's right for you. For instance, the University of Utah offers live-streamed and on-demand fitness classes alongside its in-person programming. Additionally, universities often have clubs specifically for international students, which can be a great way to meet other international students and learn about their experiences.
If you're unsure about joining a sports team or club, you can also suggest meeting up with classmates to discuss projects or forming a study group. This can be a helpful way to make friends and get support with academic expectations, especially if you're an international student. You can also look for apps designed to help students meet and connect, like Unifi, BFF, and Meetup. These can be great ways to find friends in a less intimidating way, as they often cater to people seeking friends rather than dating.
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Use apps to meet other students
As an international student, one of the biggest challenges you may face is building a social circle. Using apps can be a great way to meet other students and make new friends. Here are some tips and apps to help you get started:
University Groups on Social Media
Many universities have official or student-run Facebook groups for new students, specific departments, or international students. These groups make it easier to connect with your peers before you arrive on campus. Facebook Messenger is a convenient way to communicate with new friends, especially if you don't have their phone numbers yet. Facebook is widely used and can be a great tool to find locals with similar interests.
University-Exclusive Platforms
Some universities have their own exclusive social networking platforms or apps, such as ZeeMee, which is recognized by Apple as a "must-have" for college students and applicants. These platforms often provide communities and chats based on interests, majors, and hobbies, making it easier to connect with like-minded individuals. They also keep you informed about events and activities happening on campus.
Interest-Based Apps
Apps like Meetup allow you to connect with people in your area who share your interests. Simply download the app, create an account, select your city, and choose your interests. You can find meetups for various activities, such as cooking, sports, dog walking, and more. This is a great way to meet people face-to-face and form friendships with those who share your passions.
Neighbourhood Apps
Apps like Nextdoor are designed to bring communities together and help neighbours connect. By verifying your address, you can access content specific to your neighbourhood. Nextdoor provides a platform to communicate with those living nearby, learn about local events and opportunities, and even buy, sell, or find part-time jobs.
Group Chats
Creating group chats on apps like Snapchat, WhatsApp, or GroupMe is a common way for students to stay connected outside of formal meetings. These group chats can be for classmates or any group of people with shared interests. They provide a space to discuss coursework, exams, and study meet-ups, as well as a platform for casual conversations and getting to know one another.
Remember, building a social circle as an international student is a rewarding process, and using apps is just one of the many ways to connect with others. Combining app usage with joining clubs, attending events, and participating in class activities will further enrich your social life and overall university experience.
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Take part in cultural activities
Taking part in cultural activities is an excellent way to connect with people and gain a deeper understanding of your host country. Here are some ideas for cultural activities that international students can participate in:
Explore the Local Culture
Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending traditional festivals, markets, fairs, and workshops in your host country. These events provide a glimpse into local customs, traditions, and everyday life. For example, attending a colourful carnival in Brazil or the lantern festival in Thailand will leave you with unforgettable memories of the local culture.
Socialise Through Food
Food is a universal language that brings people together. Invite your classmates or new friends over for a meal featuring dishes important to your host country or region. Alternatively, offer to cook a meal from your home country and share the significance of certain foods with your guests. This exchange fosters a deeper understanding of each other's cultures and creates lasting memories.
Visit Historical and Cultural Landmarks
Take advantage of your time abroad by visiting famous landmarks, museums, and historical sites. These places offer valuable insights into the history and culture of your host country. Whether it's exploring ancient ruins, stunning beaches, majestic mountains, or charming villages, these experiences will enrich your understanding of the local culture and provide meaningful memories.
Participate in Cultural Exchange Activities
If you are part of a host family programme, embrace the opportunity to participate in cultural exchange activities. These may include cooking traditional meals together, visiting local landmarks, attending sports events, or simply sharing everyday experiences, such as grocery shopping or movie nights. These activities allow you to connect with your host family and gain a deeper understanding of their culture and daily life.
Join University Clubs and Societies
Universities offer a wide range of clubs and societies that cater to various interests, including cultural groups. Joining these clubs is an excellent way to connect with others who share your passions and make friends with similar interests. You can also look for clubs specifically for international students, which often provide support, resources, and organised events designed for students studying abroad.
By participating in these cultural activities, international students can gain valuable insights into their host country's culture, traditions, and everyday life. These experiences foster cultural exchange, broaden horizons, and create lasting memories.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many ways for international students to get involved in social activities at university. Joining clubs and societies is a great way to connect with others who share similar interests. Universities have societies for a wide range of interests, from sports and arts to cultural groups and more niche societies. International student organisations are also available at many universities, offering support and resources specifically for international students.
Extracurricular activities are voluntary, social, or philanthropic pursuits that are additional to a student's academic curriculum. Examples include creating art or music, joining a student organisation or club, participating in sports, pursuing a personal project, or engaging in community service. Many universities offer intramural sports, which are tailored for various athletic skill levels and provide an opportunity to stay active and build camaraderie outside the classroom.
International students can get involved in their local community by participating in local cultural courses, such as cooking or dance lessons, or by volunteering with a local organisation. Attending community events like festivals or workshops can also be a great way to meet locals and experience the culture. Universities often offer activities and workshops to introduce international students to local customs and traditions.
