Making Friends Abroad

Study abroad comes in many forms. Some people join programs for funding and connections to a group they can participate in abroad. Others go abroad in a cohort, so they can travel in a group and have friends from home. However, the most common decision is to travel alone so that you can pick exactly where you go, when, and how. This is the case for me. I do not know anyone from USC at the University of Limerick, or even in Ireland. So, naturally, one of my top priorities upon arriving in my new country was finding friends and building a support system in Ireland.

Some friends and I on a boat to the Aran Islands.

Making friends is not always as simple as going out and talking to people, especially if you are an overthinker like me. However, I very consciously chose not to let this affect me and to put myself out there. The obvious but crucial center point for making friends is just talking to everyone you are near. I am not good at approaching random people, but if I am put in groups with people during orientation or classes, I always try my best to talk and form a bond. I also always ask to share some form of contact, whether that is Instagram, WhatsApp, or phone numbers. Then, I suggest in the conversation that we travel, hang out, or get food together sometime. This opens the door for me to message them any time with plans and for them to do the same. This has been the best way for me to meet people and retain friendships.

The best time to make initial connections is during any orientation your host university has for international students. If it is in person, you will be immersed in a crowd of students who are all eager and searching for friends. Take advantage of this and try to set any apprehensions aside, most people will be ecstatic if you talk to them. If your university does not have an international student orientation, or it takes place online, there is no need to worry. Try to seek out the education abroad office and attend any events or workshops it has to access that international population.

Some friends I made during orientation by doing a scavenger hunt.

Beyond orientation and moving in, there are countless more students to meet. My top priority in my first week of classes was joining clubs. Extracurricular environments can vary greatly between countries, though, so make sure to understand the dynamics of clubs before joining. Going to the first club meeting of a semester is another great way to connect because members will expect new people and be ready to mingle. Additionally, you get to practice or do something you love. Some clubs I have tested out at UL are crafts, outdoor pursuits, yoga, and kayaking. I have not stayed with all of them, but each took me out of my shell a bit more and introduced me to more people.

My friends and I exploring Inisheer.

Another way to immerse yourself in an environment of relationship building is by seeking out different programs your university may offer. For example, UL has a Buddy Programme that matches you and others with a mentor who not only shows you around and advises you, but is a friend. Additionally, there is a Global Ambassadors Programme where you can create content for UL and meet other international students. Looking for commitments like these can help you not only make your time more meaningful, but meet others with similar interests and unique perspectives.

My Buddy Programme family and I hiking near Lough Derg.

To build these relationships with new people, you must swallow some pride and nervousness. Hopefully, you have a form of contact with them, so then you need to reach out with plans. Whether for travel, food, or fun, do not second-guess yourself. I have furthered many relationships by nervously sending a text asking if people want to get food. The worst that can happen is them saying no, but then, after a few months, you do not have to ever see them again! The best way to look at studying abroad in these instances is as a way to find yourself without shame or nerves because it is all temporary. You can do whatever you want, within reason of course, and then just leave at the end of the semester.

Many of these tips may seem simple, but they are good reminders. Having a support system in a new country is just as important as maintaining the support you have back home. Whenever you feel down, it will be good to have a few people abroad to reach out to so you can get ice cream, hike, or do whatever you like.

Part of embracing your time abroad is embracing new people with different cultures, nationalities, perspectives, and more. Do not take this for granted!