Making new friends as an Indian student studying abroad can be challenging due to cultural differences and being away from your existing social network. However, building strong friendships is important for your well-being and personal growth during your time studying overseas. Here are some tips for Indian students on how to make new friends as an Indian.
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Get Involved on Campus
Participating in campus groups as well as the activities is among the finest methods to meet new individuals with similar interests. Hundreds of student organizations represent a wide range of interests, including sports, arts, and culture, academics, and more at most colleges. Join a club that is connected to your interests or subject of study. Attend their meetings and events to interact with other members on a regular basis. You’ll start to form bonds with people you see frequently. Campus clubs are a low-pressure way to gradually build friendships.
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Reach Out to Fellow Indian Students
While it’s important to make friends outside your home culture, don’t underestimate the comfort of connecting with others from India. Reach out to Indian student associations on campus. Attend cultural events organized by them. Staying connected to your cultural roots through socializing with other Indian students can help you feel less homesick as you adjust to your new surroundings. Fellow Indian students will understand your cultural background and can relate to your experiences as an international student.
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Get to Know Your Classmates
Classmates are a captive audience you see regularly who you already have academics in common with. Introduce yourself to the students around you in class. Exchange contact details and suggest studying together. Plan casual hangouts like grabbing coffee after class. Invite classmates to group activities or cultural events on campus. Classmates can quickly become good friends, especially those in your major who you’ll see throughout your academic journey.
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Put Yourself Out There
Making new friends as an adult takes more effort than in school, where friendships form more organically through daily interactions. Be proactive in starting conversations with others and suggesting social activities. Compliment people sincerely. Ask follow up questions to show you’re engaged in the conversation. Offer help to classmates working on group projects. Putting in that small extra effort to connect with others will pay off in stronger friendships over time.
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Learn About Local Culture
Get to know the culture, customs and social norms of your new home. This will help you feel more comfortable socializing with domestic students. Ask locals about popular hangout spots. Look up cultural festivals and community events happening. Attend some to experience local culture firsthand and potentially meet people outside of campus. Having an understanding of the local way of life also gives you conversation starters to connect over shared interests.
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Be Confident in Yourself
Moving to a new country and culture can make anyone feel self-conscious. However, remember that your past as well as the experiences make you a fascinating person. Take pride in your heritage and who you are. Don’t be hesitant to discuss your family, customs, and viewpoints. Many will be curious to learn about Indian culture from you. Your confidence will put others at ease and help you make meaningful connections.
Conclusion
Building new friendships takes work but is worthwhile for your personal growth and well-being abroad. With perseverance and putting yourself out there through campus involvement and cultural understanding, Indian students can thrive socially in any new community. Focus on quality over quantity, and value diversity in your friendships for a well-rounded cultural experience during your time studying overseas. As studying abroad requires managing finances, a student forex card can also help students explore new places and communities.