Networking and Making Friends: My Secret to Surviving the US 🤝🎓

 The Problem: The Loneliness of a New Country When I arrived in the USA, I had a plan for my Engineering classes, but I didn't have a plan for my social life. For the first few weeks, I felt like an outsider. I would go to class, sit in the back, and go straight home. I realized that being a successful student isn't just about GPA; it’s about the people you know. However, starting a conversation with a stranger in a different culture felt terrifying.


How I Fixed It (My Tips for You):

1. Join Student Organizations (Not Just Engineering!) 🏆 I joined the "International Student Association" and a local photography club. Joining a club gives you a "reason" to talk to people. Instead of trying to find things in common, the club activity is the common ground.


  • Pro Tip: Look for "Professional Societies" like IEEE or ASME. You will make friends who can also help you find internships later!

2. The "Five-Minute" Rule Before Class ⏰ I challenged myself to arrive 5-10 minutes early to every lecture. Instead of looking at my phone, I started asking the person next to me simple questions: "What did you think of the homework?" or "Is this your first time taking this professor?" * Result: These small interactions turned into study groups, which are essential for surviving tough Engineering exams.

3. Volunteer for Campus Events 🙋‍♂️ Volunteering is a "cheat code" for making friends. Whether it’s helping at a career fair or a campus festival, you are put into a team. Working together toward a goal builds a bond much faster than just "hanging out."

4. Be the One to Invite People Out ☕ I used to wait for people to invite me, but then I realized: everyone is a bit shy! I started saying, "I’m going to grab a coffee at the Student Union, do you want to join?" It’s low pressure and shows that you are open to friendship.

Conclusion: Your Network is Your Net Worth

Building a social circle in a new country takes time and a bit of "social courage." You don't need to be the most popular person on campus; you just need a few good friends who support you. Once I started connecting with others, my stress levels dropped, and my English improved faster than ever.


Are you an introvert or an extrovert? What was the hardest part about making friends in a new place? Let's talk in the comments! 👇

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