Since many participants studying abroad want to meet local students, it's essential to note that this sometimes requires a bit of effort. You can also have the opportunity to date other international students from a country other than your own, and you should take advantage of these opportunities. Depending on the type of study abroad program you enrolled in, you may have the opportunity to meet the people you'll be studying abroad with before leaving home. If you participate in a language program, it is very possible that you will study with classmates from the school or university where you are enrolled in your home country.
Even if you're not friends with them, it's worth making an effort to get to know them before you launch into a new destination together. Introverted or shy students may find it a little more difficult to make new friends while studying abroad than more extroverted students. On the other hand, they may not feel the need to have a lot of friends and may be happier exploring new places on their own and spending time alone. Like any personality type, it's still essential for introverts to have a support network while studying abroad.
Feel comfortable being alone and talking. If you've made friends with other international students or even with students from another part of your home country, you'll have friends from all over the world to turn to. While the event may be optional, attending the orientation will still give you the chance to meet new friends before they settle into a group of friends. Social environments and opportunities to make friends will be very different in each of these contexts.
Studying in an international environment will give you the chance to meet friends from all over the world. Roommates, whether in a bedroom or a shared apartment, are a great way to easily meet new friends, save money, and be surrounded by social activities. If you're still not sure how to make friends abroad, getting roommates can be an easy solution. As you learn to make friends abroad, remember to use your new environment as a way to strengthen your new international friendship.
Studying abroad can be a formative experience, and if you've spent time facing the challenges of a foreign culture with new friends, lasting bonds can be created. For example, I wanted to watch the World Cup game in England last week, but none of my friends were available or supporting the same team. Having close friends can be a net positive for your mental well-being in a foreign environment, as it allows you to fruitfully optimize your time and, at the same time, have a better state of mind. Building these low-risk friendships is incredibly easy for you as an international student, as you're likely to have access to lots of opportunities to make new friends.
I think that in most situations, you only need to make a handful of friends for your network to expand naturally. The reality of studying abroad is that it can sometimes be a lonely experience, regardless of the number of friends you make. I went to drink a lot of beers, to walk around the city and to go shopping with several people from all over the world, some of whom are now my best friends here.
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