Making friends
There is no magic trick to making friends. And if you are in a foreign culture it can seem more difficult than usual to find people who you really “get along” with.
If you moved to a new city in your own country, you would probably make new friends through your common interests: studies, sport, group hobbies, religion, and so forth. In Queensland it will probably be no different. You may meet most of your friends in the classroom. Or, most schools, colleges and universities in Queensland have clubs you can join: academic, sporting, national, hobby, cultural, religious and others. In the wider community you will also find a large range of groups and clubs.
Be kind to yourself - remember that making friends takes time. If you make the most of social opportunities during your life in Queensland, just as you would back home, it will be quicker and easier for you to fit in, make friends and feel at home.
However you meet people, remember to be careful. When you meet someone new, be cautious until you get to know the person better and feel you can trust him or her. If a stranger starts talking to you, they are probably just being friendly. But stay wary, and don’t give them any of your personal details like your name, your phone number or your address. With people you don’t know well, always arrange to meet them in a public place, like a café or a park, instead of inviting them to your home or going to theirs.
Many international students spend time hanging out with other students and people from their own country and culture while they’re in Queensland. These people can make you feel accepted and you may be able to communicate much more easily with them than you can with the locals, particularly when you have just arrived. When everything around you is new and different, it can feel like a big relief to find people from your own country and cultural background. But remember, you need to be wary at first, until you get to know them better, just like you do with anyone else. Even though you may feel like you have a lot in common, remain cautious until you feel you know them reasonably well and can trust them.
If you have any concerns or questions about someone you have met, or want to talk to someone about Australian mannerisms and communication “norms” (widely acceptable behaviour), make an appointment to talk it over with your International Student Advisor.
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