Lana Oconnell
International students often find themselves in a unique situation, having left their homes and comfort zones behind to study in a new country. This can be a daunting experience, but it also presents an opportunity to embrace new experiences, immerse themselves in a different culture, and connect with people from all walks of life. University is a time when many students seek to expand their horizons, and international students, with their diverse backgrounds and YOLO attitude, can be inspiring figures in this regard. The shared experience of being in a foreign environment can accelerate the formation of connections, and the willingness to try new things and step outside one's comfort zone makes it easier to develop strong and rewarding friendships.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Open to new experiences | Trying new activities like windsurfing, yoga, ballroom dancing, volunteering, joining a sports team or a cookery course |
| Seize the day attitude | Signing up for activities that are fun and also balancing studies and sleep |
| Shared academic interests | Meeting people in libraries, student societies, and clubs |
| Shared living experiences | Living in student accommodation, leaving the door open, making dinner a communal activity |
| Breaking cultural barriers | Participating in traditional celebrations, making new dishes, joining in cultural celebrations and social events |
| Learning a new language | Teaching and learning each other's mother tongue |
| Feeling of belonging | Feeling like you belong as everyone is in a similar situation of being new |
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What You'll Learn
- International students are often more open to new experiences and activities, making them easier to connect with
- They tend to seize the day and are eager to make friends, leaving procrastination behind
- Many international students are in a similar situation, feeling like they don't belong, which can lead to rapid connection formation
- Joining clubs and societies helps international students find like-minded people and build strong connections
- Shared academic interests can also help bridge cultural and linguistic barriers and lead to meaningful friendships
International students are often more open to new experiences and activities, making them easier to connect with
International students often find themselves in a unique situation: they are studying abroad, far from home, and this can be a little scary. However, this also means that they are often more open to new experiences and activities, making them easier to connect with.
International students tend to be adventurous and eager to make the most of their time in a new place. They are more likely to say 'yes' to new experiences and activities, whether that's joining a sports team, taking up a hobby, or simply trying new dishes. They are also often keen to make friends and build a support network in a foreign country, so they are usually open to meeting new people and forming connections. This can make it easier for others to connect with them, as international students are often approachable and friendly.
University is a time for new experiences and a chance to meet people from all walks of life. International students embrace this aspect of university life, often throwing themselves into new activities and social situations. They are often keen to immerse themselves in the local culture and make the most of their time abroad, which can make them exciting and fun companions. They are also often open to learning about and embracing other cultures, which can lead to unique and rewarding friendships.
International students are often highly motivated and hardworking, as they have chosen to pursue their education in a foreign country. This can make them inspiring and influential friends. They also often have a unique perspective on life, having lived and studied in different countries, which can make them fascinating to talk to and connect with.
The process of studying abroad and making friends in a new country can be transformative. It can give international students a new outlook on life and a sense of independence and adventure. This can make them exciting friends to have, as they bring a fresh and exciting perspective to any social group. Their openness to new experiences and activities can also make it easier for them to connect with others and form strong bonds, even across linguistic and cultural barriers.
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They tend to seize the day and are eager to make friends, leaving procrastination behind
International students often find themselves in a unique situation: they are in a foreign country, possibly alone, and eager to make the most of their time abroad. This can lead to a mindset of seizing the day and leaving procrastination behind. They want to make friends, and they want to do it now.
This sense of urgency can be a powerful motivator. International students may be more open to new experiences and willing to step outside their comfort zone, whether it's trying a new activity, joining a club or society, or simply striking up a conversation with someone new. They know that their time in this new place is limited, so they want to make the most of it and are eager to fit as much as possible into their time abroad, including making friends.
This mindset can also lead to a more intense approach to socialising. International students may be more likely to say 'yes' to social invitations, even if they are tired or busy, because they recognise the importance of seizing the moment. They may also be more proactive in organising social events, knowing that friendship groups form quickly and wanting to establish connections as soon as possible. This proactive attitude can be very effective in making friends.
Furthermore, international students often bring a unique perspective and a willingness to embrace different cultures and languages. They are often eager to learn about the local culture and may be more open to trying new things, whether it's traditional celebrations, new dishes, or simply a different way of socialising. This enthusiasm can be infectious and can help them connect with others quickly.
Overall, the mindset of seizing the day and leaving procrastination behind can be a powerful driver for international students to make friends. Their eagerness to embrace new experiences, step outside their comfort zone, and actively pursue social connections can lead to strong and rewarding friendships during their time abroad.
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Many international students are in a similar situation, feeling like they don't belong, which can lead to rapid connection formation
International students often find themselves in a similar situation, feeling like they don't belong, which can lead to rapid connection formation. This sense of shared experience and understanding can be a powerful catalyst for friendship. Many international students may feel a sense of displacement or homesickness, and connecting with others in similar situations can provide comfort and familiarity.
When students study abroad, they often seek to immerse themselves in new environments and experiences, stepping outside their comfort zones. This openness and willingness to engage can make it easier to initiate conversations and form friendships. International students tend to embrace a "YOLO" mentality, seizing opportunities for fun and unique experiences. This attitude can lead to memorable adventures and strong bonds with those who join them.
Additionally, international students bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives, creating a rich environment for cultural exchange. They eagerly participate in traditional celebrations, cook new dishes, and engage in activities that bridge cultural barriers. These shared activities foster a sense of inclusion and belonging, strengthening connections and transforming acquaintances into friends.
The unique challenges and experiences of being an international student also contribute to the rapid formation of connections. Navigating a new education system, adapting to cultural differences, and managing homesickness are common challenges that international students face together. Overcoming these obstacles alongside peers who understand their struggles can foster a sense of camaraderie and support, leading to enduring friendships.
International students often share a sense of adventure and curiosity, eager to explore new places, ideas, and friendships. They embrace the unknown and actively seek connections, creating a supportive network to navigate their new environment. This shared mindset and willingness to engage foster an environment conducive to making friends and building meaningful relationships during their time abroad.
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Joining clubs and societies helps international students find like-minded people and build strong connections
Joining clubs and societies is a great way for international students to find like-minded people and build strong connections. Firstly, it provides a sense of belonging and community, which can be especially important when adjusting to a new cultural environment. When you join a club or society, you instantly have something in common with the other members, which makes it easier to start conversations and form friendships. Whether it's a shared interest in a particular sport, hobby, or academic subject, this common ground can be a great foundation for building lasting connections.
Additionally, clubs and societies often involve collaborative activities, planning, and problem-solving, which brings members together and fosters a sense of camaraderie. Working together towards a common goal can create strong bonds and a sense of unity among members. These shared experiences can be unique and impactful, leading to meaningful connections that may last well beyond the duration of the club or society.
Furthermore, clubs and societies often provide a platform for cultural exchange and immersion. International students can learn about the local culture and traditions by participating in social events, cultural celebrations, and festivities organised by the club or society. These occasions create a warm and festive atmosphere, making it easier to break the ice and connect with others. It also provides an opportunity to share one's own cultural traditions and experiences, fostering a mutual understanding and appreciation of different cultures.
The benefits of joining clubs and societies extend beyond social connections. These groups can also provide valuable personal and professional development opportunities. International students can enhance their communication, teamwork, and leadership skills through their involvement in these groups. They may also gain a better understanding of cultural nuances, improve their language skills, and develop a more global mindset, all of which can be advantageous in various aspects of their lives.
Lastly, the diversity within clubs and societies can be incredibly enriching. International students have the opportunity to connect with people from various backgrounds, countries, and even hemispheres. This diversity fosters an environment of openness, curiosity, and mutual learning. It allows students to broaden their perspectives, challenge their own assumptions, and develop a more well-rounded understanding of the world, making their study abroad experience even more meaningful and rewarding.
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Shared academic interests can also help bridge cultural and linguistic barriers and lead to meaningful friendships
International students often find themselves in a unique situation that can facilitate friendship-building. Firstly, they are often more open to new experiences and seizing the day, knowing that their time in a new place might be limited. This mindset can lead to a packed schedule filled with academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, social events, and travel, increasing the likelihood of meeting new people and making friends.
Secondly, international students share a common experience of navigating a new cultural and linguistic environment, which can foster a sense of camaraderie and understanding among themselves. They are often eager to immerse themselves in the local culture, participate in traditional celebrations, and engage in activities that help bridge cultural barriers and create stronger connections.
Additionally, international students bring diverse academic interests and passions, which can be powerful tools for connecting with others. Libraries, for instance, offer excellent opportunities to meet individuals with shared academic interests, and these shared interests can transcend cultural and linguistic differences, leading to meaningful friendships. Joining clubs, societies, or sports teams based on academic interests is an effective way to meet like-minded individuals and develop lasting connections.
For example, an international student might connect with a fellow student who shares their major or academic passion. Their initial discussions about exams and homework could expand to other topics, and they could utilise tools like WeChat to stay in touch. Thus, shared academic interests can serve as a foundation for deeper connections and help international students navigate cultural and linguistic differences more easily.
Furthermore, international students often bring a willingness to step outside their comfort zones, whether it's trying new activities, embracing language exchange, or simply reaching out to others. This openness accelerates the formation of connections and deepens the sense of belonging in a foreign environment. International students often report feeling as though they belong more quickly because everyone is in a similar situation, navigating new surroundings and seeking friendship.
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Frequently asked questions
International students tend to be adventurous and open to new experiences. They often embrace life with a “YOLO” mindset, signing up for various activities and seizing every opportunity to have fun. This attitude makes them approachable and helps them connect with others easily.
International students can overcome these barriers by finding common ground with others. Shared academic interests, such as joining clubs or working on group projects, can help bridge cultural and linguistic differences and foster meaningful connections.
Here are some practical tips for international students to facilitate friendship-building:
- Take advantage of the first few weeks at university when friendship groups are still forming.
- Be proactive and socialise in shared communal spaces, whether in student accommodation or elsewhere.
- Join clubs, societies, or sports teams to meet people with similar interests.
- Be curious about others' cultures, languages, and hobbies, and don't be afraid to initiate conversations.
- Collaborate with local students on group projects to foster connections.
- Embrace the international environment and recognise that everyone is in a similar situation, adapting to a new place.
