One of the best parts of my study abroad experience in England has been befriending several other international students. Although I am studying in England, most of my friends are not English. Speaking with other American friends that have studied abroad before, they too found that it was more challenging to become friends with local students. For someone eager to get acquainted with the local culture and society, this seems like a disappointing a prospect. I have found that there are many benefits of having international friends with which to share your time while abroad.
This idea dawned on me when I was recently at a “wine and dine” party at my friend’s apartment. Of the twenty people there, only a handful were British. Most of the students there were international students, from countries such as Germany, Norway, France, and Netherlands. It was a really fun night, and because most people were international, it was a comfortable setting to exchange perspectives.
Firstly, we are all experiencing similar experiences as international students. We can complain about odd British customs, products, and the weather. For example, “beef and onion” flavored potato chips?! Likewise, we can collectively marvel and appreciate the amazing aspects of England, such as the history. Locals might take these aspects for granted.
Secondly, international students can provide guidance and advice. Some are doing full-year programs whereas I am only doing one term. They have more knowledge about how to be a student at Exeter, such as how to submit assignments. They have also had more time to get to know the city and can provide recommendations for places to visit. Other international students are also interested in exploring, so they can share cool places they have visited as tourists.
Thirdly, studying abroad is about learning about knew cultures. This does not have to be restricted to the country in which a student is studying. I have been learning about cultures all around the world just by talking with friends from other countries. We do a lot of comparing and contrasting. It can be very fun.
Fourthly, interacting with international students helps improve communication skills. Even though all the students here can speak English, there are some expressions and terms which vary. Speaking with international students requires me to think about how I am communicating ideas and explaining uniquely American things. Communicating to an international audience is a useful skills that may be looked upon favorably by potential employers.
I am happy to have made friends with some great, interesting students from around the world. It makes the study abroad experience more fun when I have people to share it with.
