opt flip book 2019 - Flipbook - Page 5
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FINDING NEW FRIENDS
YOUR JOURNEY
Alright, let’s be real – moving to another country is HUGE. It is exactly as big as what your family makes it out to be. You’re starting
afresh, away from what has been your home. On the one hand, it
is extremely exciting; saying hello to big dreams and adventures
and bye-bye to things that could have held you back. However, it is
nerve-wracking too – even if you haven’t realized it yet. But that’s
what adds to the thrill, right?
It is SO important to find a group of people in the new place;
even if you don’t think they are going to be your (new) best
friends. If you’re lucky, and I mean, really lucky – you’ll find your
squad (is that still a thing?) during your orientation week and
first few classes. I mean, of the two fellow students I spoke to
at my orientation, one transferred to another department and
I barely saw the other. I, eventually, found some awesome
people to hang out with though!
And, no – it is not going to be easy. Even the most social and
“out-there” people feel lonely sometimes. I had my friends and
family back at home constantly tell me, “Get out there! Find
people! Do something!” I was already travelling a hundred
miles a minute; this was added stress. And it should not be that
way. There are many ways and places that you can comfortably
socialize in, especially for the less extroverted.
Most schools have orientation weeks that involve a variety of events
that make it so much easier to find friends and a group of people
that might become your group of people. And remember, most of the
others are in the same boat as you. Even if they’ve come from within
the country or closer – they still need friends here.
The International Student Center at most universities
hold special orientations and regular events for
students from all over the world. Often, they even have
guided tours that are both fun and useful!
Trust me when I say that events are always happening throughout the
campus – especially when it is a large university; it is not surprising
to see a number of schedules put up for club events, competitions,
open mic nights, food/study breaks one after the other. Attend as
many as you can! (Lifetip: Free good food? Yes please!)