10 Tips for Adjusting and Making Connections During Study Abroad

Introduction

Are you planning to start your journey of studying abroad? Starting this journey is exciting, but it also has its own set of challenges. For someone, it can be overwhelming to Adjusting to new settings at the time of studying abroad as you get involved into an unfamiliar environment, meet diverse cultured people, and face a whole new culture. But, these challenges also have a key to success while adapting to new environments, networking socially, and creating friends.

Do you also worry and question yourself, “How will I step into my comfort zone easily?” or “How will I make connections in a whole new environment?” Then, don’t worry, we’ll help you! Many students worry the same about settling into their study abroad programs. We promise to make your experience enjoyable and smoother throughout this guide as here you’ll walk through study abroad adjustment tips. Regardless of understanding navigating a new culture or making friends while studying abroad, these study abroad social tips will be of great help!

Read More: Best Study Abroad Consultancy in Udaipur

10 Tips for Connecting with Others During your Study Abroad

Let’s explore the 10 tips for connecting with others during your study abroad, adjusting to new setting, and having an unforgettable experience.

1.Be Open to New Experiences – Embrace the Culture

It’s not a big deal to feel overwhelmed, especially when you are in another country. However, the first step in adapting to new environments is being willing to embrace the process and accept all the new experiences that you face.

• Learn basic phrases of the country’s local language, as people appreciate your efforts.
• Attend cultural events to be hosted at your university.
• Explore local festivals and cultural landmarks.
• Step outside of your comfort zone and try local food.

Fun Fact: Deepika Padukone, one of Bollywood’s biggest stars, was born in Denmark. When she returned to India, she had to adapt to a whole new culture, just like what you’ll do while studying abroad.

2.Create a Routine to Settle in Quickly

Do you feel nervous about stepping into a new culture? Don’t be! You must explore the beauty of studying abroad, as there’s everything new. Dive in! First, you need to make a routine, which is one of the best study abroad adjustment tips. Keeping a schedule can make your environment more familiar.

• You can join a sports club or a gym to meet individuals with the same mindset.
• Spend more time in university common areas like libraries and cafés.
• Set a schedule for exploring and studying.
• Start volunteering, as this is a great opportunity to meet people.

3.Make the First Move – Initiate Conversations

Finding friends is hard for you? No worries! Connecting with others during your study abroad is not that hard. Sometimes, all it takes is to take the initiative.

• Attend social gatherings or ice-breaker events at your university.
• Get introduced to your classmates or roommates.
• Gateway EduconnectGPT- an AI tool that can help you find nearby international students.
• Join student Facebook communities or WhatsApp groups.

Feeling unsure? Reach out to Gateway Educonnect Solutions for personalised tips on making friends while studying abroad!

Read More: Why Choose Gateway Educonnect for Your Study Abroad Journey: A Comprehensive Guide

4.Embrace Social Media to Stay Connected

Is it hard to connect with people face-to-face? No worries! Get interacted first online and move to in-person meetings when you feel more comfortable. Social media is not a place to only post pictures. It is a great way of creating connections abroad. You can find people with the same interests online.

• Follow local student influencers to know about your nearby local events.
• Facebook groups of students at your university can be helpful.
• Make new friends with apps like Bumble BFF and MeetUp.

5.Attend University Events and Workshops

Abroad universities are famous for their vibrant social life. Attending events is an excellent way of setting into your study abroad lifestyle.

• Attend workshops on culture, language learning, or professional skills.
• Involve in orientation programs especially designed for students like you.
• Get into student-run activities like dance groups, music clubs, or photography sessions.

6.Leverage Your Student Network for Support

Well, it may surprise you that there is a community of international students similar to you. Reach out to them! Your peers can always offer you some tips on adapting to new environments.

• Join an international student union.
• Ask peers and seek out mentorship programs.

Fun fact: Actress Priyanka Chopra attended school in the U.S. as a teenager and experienced the same cultural shock many international students face today.

Read More: How a Study Abroad Company Can Help Fulfill Your Dream of Studying Abroad

7.Explore the Local Area – Go Beyond the Campus

Stepping into your comfort zone is easy, but, going out can be the game changer for adjusting to new settings.

• Enjoy local holidays and festivities, and visit local parts and markets.
• Join a local language exchange group and take a tour of the city.

Feeling adventurous? Take a weekend trip with your new friends and see more of the country!

8.Stay in Touch with Home – Balance the Old and the New

Adjusting to new environments does not mean ignoring your loved ones! Stay connected with your roots, and hurray! You can find a balance between family and friends.

• Invite friends or family to a visit or do regular calls.
• Share your adventures with them through social media.

9.Make Use of University Support Services

With more universities offering free support services and counselling sessions, you can get help with your settling into study abroad life.

• Get a look over the counselling services your university has.
• Use career centres for your internship or job advice.

DID YOU KNOW? Universities in Germany offer free or cheaper public transport for students—a great way to explore the city on a budget!

10. Be Patient – Adjusting Takes Time

Stay calm and be patient! This is the most important rule for adjusting to new settings. Changing the culture, making friends, and long-lasting relationships take time.

• Enjoy the journey, not just the destinations.
• Take some time and celebrate even small wins like understanding the local language.

Feeling frustrated? It's normal! Remember, you're not alone in this journey!

Don’t wait to make your dream a reality. Book a Free Consultation with our experts—limited slots available!

FAQs

Q1- What if I don’t make friends easily?

Worry not! Attend events, join clubs, use social media, and take initiative. Your focus should be on quality over quantity, and one thing you must remember is that friendships take time to build.

Q2- What is the time duration to adjust to a new environment?

It is different for everyone. Some get settled in less time, and some take longer, even months. Use the above-given study abroad adjustment tips to lessen this time.

For more personalised support, contact us at Gateway Educonnect EduTech and get the best tips for adjusting to new settings. You can also reach out to us at +91 7412067040, and we’ll help you out!