How to actually enjoy your exchange program
As an international student, I have heard many of my peers complaining about their exchange experiences, and I have seen them not fully utilize the opportunities they were given. They tend to stay close to other international students and don’t leave that bubble.
If you actually want to enjoy your exchange, here is what you should do:
🕺Try to do things on your own
If you are interested in going to a new place and you keep waiting for other people to join, the probability is that you will never go or go too late. I have seen that happen too many times. Your time in your new country is limited! Enjoy it to the maximum, even if that means doing things alone.
It may be a little scary or anxiety-inducing at first, but I promise you, no one cares. On the opposite, people probably think that you are pretty badass for doing things on your own.
🏊Join a student club
Student clubs are probably the best way to meet new people outside of class who have similar interests and hobbies. No matter your main interest, you will probably find at least one club for you. I joined the NC State swim club, and that was one of the best experiences ever! I met so many friends this way, and also got to visit some universities on the East Coast when we went to swim meets. It was such a fun way to meet different people and have a group of friends that wasn’t just international students.
👭 Live with American roommates
That is probably one of my favorite tips to know people outside of the other international students. I will say not every roommate you will have will become your best friend. Sometimes it won’t work out, but if it works out, it can be the beginning of an amazing friendship. One of my American best friends was actually my first-year roommate. She and my other roommate did everything to make me feel so welcome. They took me under their wings, I went to their family’s houses, had dinner with their friends, we hosted parties, and went to tailgates together! I think my experience would have been very different without them.
Living with American roommates won’t always be easy, especially if you have an age gap. So talk to them before you move in to learn about their boundaries, share your boundaries, talk about some rules, and everything else. Planning and having a few calls before your arrival will help when you arrive.
Enjoying your exchange takes time, but it is worth it!
If you really want to enjoy your experience in your new country, you will have to get out of your comfort zone. It is not easy, but it can be so worth it! Take it step by step and day by day. Don’t try to rush it, you will find your people and have fun!
