5 types of friends you can’t do without when studying abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting and life-changing experience that offers numerous opportunities for personal and academic growth. However, it can also come with its fair share of challenges. One of the keys to making the most of your study abroad journey is building a supportive network of friends. In this article, we'll explore the importance of having friends abroad for international students like you, and discuss five types of friends you can't do without when studying overseas. So, let's dive in!

Why having friends abroad is important

Deciding on a university and course can be an obstacle even before you study abroad. Be sure to know who you should speak to, and use the right tools like the IDP Live app, to guide you through with practical advice and resources.

As your challenge shifts to the study phase, where you try to adjust to a new culture and academic system and being away from family and friends, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, having a strong support system can make a world of difference in navigating these challenges.

Making friends while studying abroad is not just about socialising; it plays a crucial role in your overall study abroad experience. With more students packing their bags to head overseas for their education, here are a few reasons why having friends while studying abroad is important:

1. They act as your cultural guide

When you step into a new country as an international student, understanding its culture can be a bit daunting. Having a local friend who can act as your cultural guide will help you navigate social norms, traditions, and customs more easily. They can introduce you to local events, cuisine, and hidden gems, giving you a more authentic experience.

Before you identify your first friend

2. They are your language buddy

Language barriers can be a hurdle when studying abroad. Having a friend who speaks the local language can make the transition smoother. They can assist you with language learning, help you practise speaking, and provide valuable insights into local slang and expressions.

3. They become your adventure companions

Studying abroad is not just about academics; it's also about exploring new places and embarking on exciting adventures. Having a friend who shares your love for exploration can make these experiences even more memorable. Together, you can discover new cities, go on weekend trips, and create lifelong memories.

4. They form your support system

Being away from home can be emotionally challenging at times as an international student. Having a support system of friends who understand what you're going through can provide comfort and encouragement. They can be a shoulder to lean on during homesickness, academic stress, or personal struggles.

5. They can be academic allies

Studying abroad involves academic rigour, and having a friend who shares your field of study can be immensely helpful. They can provide study tips, collaborate on assignments, and offer insights into the academic system of your host country. Additionally, they can connect you with resources and opportunities related to your area of interest.

Type of friend 1: The Cultural Connector

As you step foot into the enchanting realm of your study destination, everything feels like a beautiful mystery waiting to be unravelled. You're eager to embrace the local culture and immerse yourself in this new world. However, the intricate web of social customs and unspoken norms can feel like a daunting puzzle to solve.

Enter your cultural ambassador, a friend who becomes your bridge to this captivating new culture. Their warm welcome and genuine enthusiasm make you feel at home from the very beginning. As you stroll through the bustling streets together, they proudly introduce you to the heart and soul of the city—the vibrant markets, the quaint cafes, and the lively festivals.

Imagine one bright, sunny afternoon, where you find yourself attending a local festival, filled with colour, music, and laughter. Your cultural ambassador patiently explains the significance of each ritual, allowing you to not only witness but truly understand the traditions of this wonderful celebration.

But their role doesn't end there. They become your go-to guide, showing you the hidden gems that only locals know about. From the cosiest bookstores to the most authentic eateries, you savour the essence of the city beyond what guidebooks can offer.

As days turn into weeks, you begin to appreciate the spirit of the culture, thanks to the insights and knowledge your Cultural Connector has shared with you. You confidently engage with locals, exchanging warm smiles and heartfelt conversations, feeling like a true part of the community.

From navigating local transportation to mastering social etiquette, the cultural ambassador friend is almost like a guiding compass in a foreign land. Their friendship not only enriches your study abroad experience but also leaves an indelible mark on your heart, but helps to turn your grand adventure of studying abroad into an extraordinary chapter of your life.

Type of friend 2: The Language Guide

In the bustling streets of your new city, you find yourself eager to connect with locals and truly embrace the culture. However, the language barrier feels like an obstacle in your path to full immersion. Eager to embrace this linguistic adventure, you seek out a language partner, hoping to dive headfirst into the immersive world of communication.

Your Language Guide becomes not just a tutor, but a true language companion. Together, you embark on a journey of learning and discovery. Through animated conversations and patient guidance, they help you practise speaking with increasing fluency. Each day, you gain more confidence in your language skills, breaking down barriers of self-doubt that once held you back.

Think of a scenario where you find yourselves exploring a street market, surrounded by the vibrant chatter of locals. With your language partner by your side, you muster the courage to engage in conversations with vendors, feeling an immense sense of accomplishment as you understand and respond in the local tongue. Your language partner's eyes light up with pride, knowing that they played a crucial role in your linguistic progress.

But their support doesn't end there. They introduce you to colloquial phrases and expressions that textbooks often overlook—those subtle nuances that make your speech resonate with authenticity. As you navigate through everyday situations, you find yourself using these phrases effortlessly, blending in seamlessly with the locals.

Beyond language, a language partner who is a true friend might create a safe and nurturing environment for you to explore your newfound linguistic skills. They cheer you on in your triumphs and laugh with you in moments of playful miscommunication.

With their guidance, the language transforms from a mere tool of communication into a bridge that connects you to the heart and soul of the culture. Your experience studying abroad deepens as you form meaningful connections with locals, and the world opens up in ways you could never have imagined.

Thanks to your Language Guide's unwavering support, you embrace the challenges of learning with determination in your language journey.

Type of friend 3: The Adventure Companion

Exploring new places and creating unforgettable memories is an integral part of studying abroad. Having a travel companion who shares your passion for adventure can make these experiences even more enjoyable. They can accompany you on weekend trips, share travel tips, and be your partner in discovering hidden gems.

Picture this: It's a Saturday morning, and you're planning your weekend getaway to a nearby enchanting town. You can already imagine the stunning landscapes and captivating sights that await you. But there's something missing—a companion to share this adventure with. That's when your fellow travel buddy comes to the rescue, with a cheerful smile and an adventurous spirit that inspires you even when you don’t feel like it.

As you both embark on this journey together, the experience takes on a whole new level of joy and excitement. With their travel tips and local knowledge, you uncover the lesser-known gems that tourists often miss. From quaint cafes with the best pastries to hidden trails leading to breathtaking vistas, your Adventure Companion seems to have an endless trove of insider knowledge.

As you traverse through winding streets and charming alleys, you share laughter, stories, and dreams of future escapades. Their company adds an extra layer of meaning to every moment, turning the ordinary into extraordinary. With your travel companion by your side, you feel a sense of security and camaraderie, allowing you to embrace every new experience with confidence.

Back in your cosy apartment, you reflect on the day's adventures. The memories you created together are etched in your heart, forming a bond that will last a lifetime. Thanks to your Adventure Companion's infectious spirit and shared passion for exploration, your journey of studying abroad becomes a tapestry of unforgettable moments, all woven together by the magic of adventure and friendship.

Type of friend 4: The Emotional Support

Living in a foreign country as an international student can be emotionally challenging, especially when homesickness or stress kicks in.

Late at night, if ever the weight of homesickness and the challenges of living in a foreign land begin to settle in, you might find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the distance from your loved ones back home. In this moment of vulnerability, this friend could be one who steps forward as your emotional support.

They sense your feelings, sometimes even without you uttering a word. With a compassionate smile, they invite you for a stroll along the serene riverbank, lending a listening ear, patiently allowing you to pour your heart out. Their comforting presence makes you feel understood and cherished, as if you were with family.

You might even get thoughtful advice, reassuring you that these feelings are a natural part of the journey, or hear from their own experiences of overcoming similar challenges.

When the weight of academic stress bears down, the Emotional Support is your pillar of strength, encouraging you to persevere, perhaps even surprising you with motivational messages on exam days and heartfelt notes that brighten your gloomy moments.

This friend might become part of a close-knit community of support, where the laughter and camaraderie help you realise that you are not alone in your struggles. Together, you form a support network that uplifts each other through every high and low of your study abroad journey.

With this type of unwavering support, you not only conquer homesickness but also grow emotionally resilient, ready to face any obstacle that comes your way. This friend has become a cherished connection that transcends borders and time zones.

Even when the chapter of studying abroad comes to a close, the bond with your friend may remain steadfast, having been your companion through your emotional maze.

Type of friend 5: The Study Buddy

Academic success is a priority when studying abroad, and a study companion can make a big difference to your learning experience.

As the semester progresses, you find yourself facing the daunting challenge of a complex course. The subject matter seems like a maze of intricate concepts, and you begin to feel overwhelmed. That's when your Study Buddy comes to your rescue, armed with enthusiasm and determination to conquer this academic obstacle.

Together, you schedule regular study sessions, and as you dive into the material, complex concepts are broken into easily digestible pieces. Their patient explanations and insightful analogies spark a newfound understanding within you. Suddenly, what seemed like an insurmountable mountain becomes a series of conquerable hills.

Beyond individual subjects, your study ally could be an indispensable collaborator on group projects. With complementary skills and shared ambition, you form an unbeatable team. As you brainstorm ideas and refine your work together, you realise that collaboration yields a higher level of creativity and innovation.

There might be nights when you find yourselves huddled in the university library, pouring over textbooks and notes. The pressure to excel weighs heavily on your shoulders, but your study companion's unwavering support becomes your source of motivation. They cheer you on when you need it the most, motivating you to strive and push on, even when doubts creep in.

During exam week, you create a study schedule together, ensuring that you cover all the necessary material. With focused determination, you both navigate through the challenges of academia, knowing that you have a trusted ally by your side.

As the results are announced, you celebrate your academic achievements together. Your study buddy's encouragement has not only improved your grades but also instilled a newfound confidence in your abilities. In return, you celebrate their victories, cherishing the camaraderie and mutual growth that this academic journey has fostered.

Throughout your study abroad experience, your study buddy might be more than just an academic companion; they become a friend who believes in your potential and encourages you to reach for the stars. Together, you transform academic pursuits into shared triumphs, proving that the power of friendship can propel you to achieve greatness.

How to find friends abroad

Now that we've explored the importance of having friends abroad, let's discuss some ways you can find friends you can connect with while studying abroad:

Orientation programs: Participate in orientation programs organised by your university or host institution. These programs often include icebreaker activities and social events, providing an excellent opportunity to meet fellow international students.

Join clubs and organisations: Get involved in clubs and organisations related to your interests or hobbies. This allows you to connect with like-minded individuals and build friendships based on shared passions.

Attend social events: Attend social events organised by your university, such as parties, cultural nights, and sports activities. These events provide a relaxed and informal environment for meeting new people.

Engage in group study sessions: Form study groups with classmates to collaborate on assignments and prepare for exams. This not only enhances your academic performance but also fosters camaraderie among group members.

Online platforms: Utilise online platforms and social media groups to connect with other international students or locals in your host country. These platforms often have dedicated communities for students who study overseas, making it easier to find friends.

Benefits of having friends abroad

Making friends while studying abroad goes beyond just companionship. Here are a few additional benefits of building a strong network of friends while studying abroad:

• Intercultural understanding: Interacting with friends from different cultural backgrounds broadens your perspective and deepens your understanding of the world. You'll gain insights into different customs, traditions, and ways of life.

• Personal growth: Friends abroad can inspire personal growth by pushing you out of your comfort zone and encouraging you to embrace new experiences. They can help you develop confidence, independence, and adaptability.

• Networking opportunities: Making friends while studying abroad can lead to valuable networking opportunities. Your friends may introduce you to professionals in your field of interest, opening doors for internships, job opportunities, or collaborations in the future.

• Lifelong connections: Some of the friendships you make while studying abroad may turn into lifelong connections. These friends can become your global network, with whom you can stay in touch, visit in their home countries, and create lasting memories.

Speak to a friendly IDP counsellor before studying abroad

Studying abroad is a transformative experience, and building meaningful friendships can enhance every aspect of it. From cultural guidance to academic support and personal connections, making friends while studying abroad enriches your overseas adventure. So, make an effort to connect with fellow students, locals, and other international students to create lasting friendships. Remember, studying abroad is not just about academics; it's about embracing a new culture and creating lifelong memories with friends from around the world.

At IDP, we not only understand the significance of having a supportive network of friends while studying abroad, but the many other considerations you’ll need to think of for studying abroad. Our friendly and experienced education counsellors can guide you through the process of starting on your study journey in your dream destination. Whether you need assistance with getting an instant offer from a university, finding a course, or other student essentials, our counsellors are here to help. Reach out to an IDP counsellor today for a free counselling session and embark on your study journey with confidence.