Moving to a new country can be exciting — but also intimidating, especially if you’re naturally quiet or introverted. You might see other students quickly forming groups, hanging out in cafés, or exploring the city together, while you’re still figuring out how to start a conversation. If that sounds like you, don’t worry — you’re not alone.
The truth is, you don’t need to be the loudest or most outgoing person in the room to make meaningful connections abroad. With a few simple strategies and genuine effort, you can build lasting friendships that make your international experience truly memorable.
Start Small and Use Shared Spaces
You don’t have to attend every party or social event to meet people. Some of the best friendships abroad begin in quieter spaces — classrooms, libraries, residence halls, or university cafés.
If your university has an orientation week, join at least one or two activities. These events are designed for students who don’t know anyone yet, making it the perfect opportunity to connect.
You can also look for small groups or societies that match your interests. For instance, if you love reading, joining a campus book club gives you something to talk about instantly.
Even small moments — like asking a classmate where the lecture hall is or complimenting their presentation — can open the door to friendship. These short interactions slowly build confidence and familiarity.
One-on-One Conversations Work Best for Introverts
If large groups drain your energy, focus on one-on-one conversations instead. Many introverts find deeper connections when talking to one person at a time.
You can invite a classmate for coffee after a lecture or ask someone to study together before a test. These low-pressure settings help conversations flow naturally.
Look for people who seem approachable — maybe someone who stays behind after class or enjoys quiet study spots. You’ll often find you have more in common than you think.
Use Your Interests to Find Your People
Shared interests are the easiest way to make friends abroad. Whether it’s cooking, music, gaming, sports, or volunteering, your hobbies can help you meet like-minded people.
Here are a few ways to connect through your passions:
Join a club or society: Most universities have hundreds of clubs — from cultural and sports clubs to art or movie groups.
Volunteer locally: Community projects are a great way to meet people while doing something meaningful.
Take workshops or short courses: Language, dance, or art classes attract friendly, creative people.
Engage in online student groups: Join WhatsApp, Discord, or Facebook groups for international students — they often plan meetups or study sessions.
When you connect over something you genuinely enjoy, friendships grow naturally and effortlessly.
Build Friendships Where You Live
Your accommodation can be one of the best places to make friends abroad. You already share a space — that’s a great starting point.
Say hello to your flatmates, join them for a meal, or ask about their day. You don’t need big gestures — being approachable and friendly is enough.
If your dorm organizes events like movie nights, cultural dinners, or game evenings, attend one or two. Even brief participation helps you recognize familiar faces and feel more at home.
Be Open, But Move at Your Own Pace
Making friends while studying abroad doesn’t mean forcing yourself into uncomfortable social situations. It’s all about balance — trying new things while giving yourself time to recharge.
Being open can be as simple as smiling, asking a question, or showing genuine interest in someone’s story. Curiosity goes a long way, especially in a multicultural environment where everyone has unique experiences to share.
If you’re learning a new language, don’t stress about being perfect. People appreciate the effort — and a few laughs over language mistakes can even strengthen your bond.
Use Technology to Meet People Abroad
In today’s world, many friendships begin online. Platforms like Meetup, Bumble for Friends, and Facebook student groups make it easier to find others who are also looking to connect.
You can also join local WhatsApp or Discord groups for students in your city. These communities often plan hangouts, cultural events, or weekend trips. If you’re shy, chatting online first can make meeting in person much easier.
