4 Ways to Become Part of American College Social Circle

Besides academics, developing local friends is the next biggest challenge for international students studying in the US. It can be awkward to feel ‘not a-part of the local scene’. The best way to integrate is to adopt a gradual, incremental approach.

1: Try asking a local a question

When something happens that you don’t understand, try asking a local a question that lets them know you don’t understand everything about American culture. Keep in mind, America is a melting pot, and most people will not assume much about your background unless you give them a clue. Also, as you become more familiar with your classmates, feel free to mention how something would be handled differently in your country. Many Americans will notice your comment and will respond with conversation. This may not happen right away, but it will help generate conversation in subsequent interactions. Americans appreciate polite and direct approaches, so if you don’t succeed…try, try again. The key is to be patient and remain open. Appreciate small wins and be persistent – you may tend toward being reserved but putting yourself out there can be very rewarding.

 2. Participate in a club or extracurricular activity in school

The second suggestion involves your participation in a club or extracurricular activity in your school. Here are some ideas:

•  Theatre: If you can act in a play, great; if you simply participate as stage manager, in wardrobe, props, etc. fine too. College theatre groups are great because they help students break down the barriers in communication and allow friendships to develop. Theatre students are usually personable and open-minded. Join the thespians!
• Campus Newspaper: Your student newspaper can be a great place to get to know new friends. If you aren’t ready to write yet, you can fill roles in management or marketing.
•  International Business/International Affairs Clubs: These clubs are a great place to meet other global thinkers on campus.
• Sports: If you’re interested in sports, consider getting involved in the intramural league on campus as a player, or you could find a role in supporting one of the athletic teams fielded by your school. The office of the Athletic Director has plenty of need for volunteers and the work will bring you into contact with many kindred spirits.
• School Departments: Consider working (for pay or as a volunteer) for your school in departments that will provide an opportunity to meet a wide variety of students, staff, and faculty. Good departments to check out include Admissions, Alumni Relations and Development or Advancement. These departments are usually well-connected within the school community and a great place to network with positive, gregarious people.
• Start your own club: If you have a particular talent, interest, or hobby that isn’t represented on campus, consider starting a club. Being a leader in this fashion is certainly a sure-fire way to generate a vibrant circle of acquaintances and friends. Remember, you’re living in America where anything is possible. Most colleges have an office of student life that manages student clubs.

 In selecting an extracurricular activity be guided by your interests and passions.

3. Be comfortable and confident in speaking English

How comfortable and confident are you speaking English? Your ability to speak English well will have a big impact on your ability to make friends. ProImpact has a simple program to help international students become better English language speakers in three months called Fluently. Fluently provides an enjoyable way to acquire near native spoken English and is available as a stand-alone solution or included free with 3, 5, or 7 sessions of American U college admissions coaching. The time you spend improving your spoken English will pay huge dividends as you attempt to develop a large network of friends in the US. 

4. Not to spend all your free time with your fellow countrymen

Finally, when you arrive in America and start to settle in on campus, be mindful not to spend all your free time with your fellow countrymen. It will be easy to fall into a pattern of associating with those from your same country, speaking the language you grew up with, but remember, that’s not why you came to the US. If you want to integrate into American life, from day 1, try to limit your time with friends from your same country and force yourself into situations that will help you integrate.

Perhaps you share this article with your countrymen and challenge each other to pursue the same goal of integrating. You can encourage each other, share best practices, and maybe even share friends!