Perhaps you have just moved into your new place abroad. You must be excited and equally very anxious about how the locals will react to your moving in. You have just joined a new school in your new locality. It is unfortunate that many international students end up socializing with only the other international students. It could be either shyness, or fright, or both. To truly experience life in another country, having local friends is a significant advantage. There are plenty of benefits by befriending the locals. Five ways in which you can socialize with the locals and enjoy life have been listed below.
- Learn the Local Language
This is probably the best way you can socialize with someone in their country. By learning their language, they will be happy to realize that you are embracing their land and culture. They will be more friendly and jovial with you. Even if you are not well versed in their language, it is ok. They will undoubtedly appreciate the effort you are putting in to learn another language. The more you practice, the better you get at it.
- Accepting Invitations
To get over the awkwardness, when they call you for a coffee or a trip, say yes. Attend social events around the locality; make the locals feel that you want to be a part of them. Have a small talk with all your neighbours and school friends.
- Look beyond the school
School campuses are the best way to create connections with the locals, but try to go beyond that. You are bound to find an entirely different array of people outside the school walls. Try to get a part-time job to earn some pocket money so that you can spend more time with hanging out with friends. You could also be a volunteer in an organization if that interests you.
- Join a Club
Get involved with local organizations such that you can increase the bond between you and your local friends. Interested in music? Join a chorus, or join a band. Mingling with the like-minded people will not make you feel out of place. In fact, you will have more fun. Your school is bound to have a lot of social clubs, so you can decide which club to join based on your interests.
- Embrace their Interests
It does not matter where you are from, respecting others’ interests will lead to a binding friendship. You might end up having common interests too! The locals might be aware of your home country’s values and cultures, so investing time in exploring your new area is the best way to mingle with the locals. Common things like television shows, sports, etc. will give you a lot of things to speak about and gossip. This will create an excellent connection between you and your local schoolmates.
Do not be under the impression that the locals will find you weird and will not want to socialize with you. They are as interested as knowing you as you want to know them. The International School in Gurgaon is perhaps a perfect place where a lot of international students mingle with the locals and spend quality time together.
