It's not always easy to make friends when you arrive at a new destination. To make it easier, we’ve created 6 tips that you should always keep in the back of your mind when studying abroad!
1. Choose a program that genuinely interests you! It is always a big advantage to connect with people with shared interests. You can talk about the destination, culture, courses, share insights, and relate to each other's backgrounds. If you choose something you’re passionate about, you are basically guaranteed a circle of friends when you arrive at your destination!
2. Go to many events - Most programs offer events, lunches or dinners for students to connect. The key is to take advantage of this, and put yourself out there! SBCC Study Abroad programs have many cultural activities included in the program cost and often offer additional free or low-cost events. team up with your new friends to participate in events. Also, locals are often more than happy to talk to you. The more you put yourself out there, the more local friends you make!
3. Spend less time in your room and step out of your comfort zone - This is a very general, but helpful tip. Do more! Explore more! Go outside, and take a look at the city you live in. Not being comfortable all the time is a big part of studying abroad. Spend less time doing what you’ve always done, and more time exploring new and adventurous activities.
4. Use social media - In the world of technology we’re living in, there are endless opportunities to connect and reach out to new friends. Find a local Facebook group or look up an event outside of your usual interests. You’ll be surprised how many opportunities lay in front of you if you just dare to send the first message, and reach out!
5. Be open-minded - A big part of studying abroad is to learn about a new and exciting culture. Part of the reason you study abroad is that you are getting exposed to new ideas, new ways of doing things, learning new languages and customs and more. Embrace the newness and be open to trying it out. Try not to have pre-conceived ideas. You will be surprised how embracing new ideas will suddenly make you look at your own culture in a completely different way. Many things will be different from back home, and that is okay. Being open-minded, and accepting of new people and experiences is a big step towards a more diverse group of friends and a greater world view. Employers in your future will really appreciate, and often look for, this quality in their hiring process.
If you want to study abroad with SBCC, but are not entirely sure where you want to go, take our fun quiz here!
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