Connecting with Your International Peers
Be Friendly at Orientations
You’re in a new country. You might not know anyone, and you really want to make some friends. The good news is that everyone in the room is feeling the same way! Orientations are, well, disorienting for everybody — which makes this the perfect time to meet new people and make new friends.
Go to Events
From language exchanges to dance nights, there are events that appeal to everyone!
Most universities abroad host events specifically for international students, allowing them to meet and mingle with students from the host country.
These events will allow you to make connections and meet students from all around the world.
Form Study Groups
Don’t forget the “study” part of study abroad! Countries have different expectations and standards for grading, so make sure to stay on top of your studies by forming study groups. Study groups can also be an amazing excuse to explore coffee shops or study-friendly parks in the area.
Engage in Class Activities
Talking in class can be a nerve-wracking experience — especially in an international classroom — but getting involved helps you connect with your classmates.
Especially in long classes with breaks, making yourself known in class can lead to fun and interesting conversations during break times. Plus, participating in class gives you the bonus of engaging more deeply with the course material and doing better in the course.
Make Travel Plans
Traveling is a truly bonding experience that allows you to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether it’s a trip to another country, a day trip to a nearby area, or touring your host city, everyone is excited to explore the new environment.
It is very common to travel while abroad, so form a group and start making plans!
Connecting with International Students at UT
Talk Time
Talk Time is a weekly event hosted by the English Language Center that connects international and U.S. students for an hour and 15 minutes of fun, casual conversation. UT students act as volunteers to lead small groups and help current English learners become familiar with informal speaking and listening.
If you are interested in meeting new people, building friendships, and developing intercultural communication skills, email ekbutki@austin.utexas.edu.
Language Circles
Language Circles provide an informal setting to connect with other students — both international and from the U.S. — and practice a foreign language.
Language Circles are all about practicing, so there’s no need to feel pressured to speak perfectly! Come practice a new language, make new friends, and gain confidence speaking with people you don’t know.
UT Austin students are also offered the opportunity to host a Language Circle in English or another language. If you have any questions about Language Circles, please email intercultural@austin.utexas.edu.
International Orientation Volunteer Program
Each year, UT Austin and Texas Global welcome more than a thousand international students to the Longhorn community! Get involved in International Student Orientation activities and help create a welcoming environment for new classmates.
By volunteering, you’ll develop leadership skills and intercultural competencies, and gain the opportunity to share your culture with a vibrant community of international students.
Any student is eligible to apply if they:
• Have completed a semester at UT
• Are enrolled for the semester in which they plan to volunteer, and
• Can commit to at least two orientation sessions.
ISSS Events
International Student and Scholar Services offers a variety of intercultural programs and events, providing opportunities for students to explore life at the University and make new friends.
Students can attend informational sessions on many topics, join excursions around the city of Austin and Central Texas area, or connect with each other during social hours.
Zoe Caruso is an Education Abroad Peer Mentor providing support to students interested in studying abroad. Learn about this position and its services on the Peer Mentors Program webpage.
