That’s a wonderful question! Building lifelong friendships is an important—and often overlooked—part of studying abroad. Strong social habits can help you connect with people from diverse backgrounds and make your overseas experience truly memorable. Here are some proven social habits that can help students build lasting friendships:

1. Be Open and Approachable

- Smile and greet people; don’t be afraid to introduce yourself.
- Show genuine interest in meeting new people from different cultures.

2. Join Clubs, Societies, or Student Organizations

- Participate in clubs related to your hobbies, interests, or academic field.
- Attend social events, workshops, and cultural festivals organized by the university.

3. Attend Orientation and Social Events

- University and student unions often host welcome events—make the most of these to meet fellow students.

4. Practice Active Listening

- Show interest in other people’s stories and cultures.
- Avoid interrupting and ask questions to learn more about them.

5. Share and Participate in Group Activities

- Study together, cook meals, or explore the city as a group.
- Organize movie nights, potlucks, or game evenings.

6. Be Consistent and Reliable

- Follow through on plans and keep in touch—consistency builds trust and deepens relationships.

7. Embrace Diversity

- Be respectful and open to different opinions, traditions, and perspectives.
- Be curious about your friends’ backgrounds and share your own culture as well.

8. Offer Help and Support

- Be willing to lend a hand—whether it’s with studies, settling in, or personal challenges.

9. Communicate Regularly

- Use social media, group chats, or messaging apps to stay connected.
- Don’t hesitate to check in with friends, especially during stressful periods.

10. Be Yourself

- Authenticity attracts genuine friendships—don’t pretend to be someone you’re not.

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Tip from Pollster Education:
When you study abroad, take the initiative to step out of your comfort zone. Building lifelong friendships starts with small, everyday interactions. And remember, your university’s student support services (which we can help you learn about during your application process) are there to help you connect with others!

If you’d like more tips on adapting to a new social environment or want to know about student communities at specific universities, feel free to ask!