It is probably unrealistic to think that you will make friends with host‑country students just
because you are taking classes with them. Consider your classes here in Iowa City. When was
the last time you befriended an international student? You might be polite to them and talk to
them occasionally in the classroom, but it’s rare for an American student to take the initiative to
get to know an international student on a social level, outside of class. Most international
students never get invited into a U.S. home while they study in Iowa City. Most international
students report that they find it very difficult to make friends with Americans. You may be
surprised to learn that you are in the same situation when you study abroad. That’s not to say
that you won’t make any friends with local students, but that it takes time and effort to do so.
Just sitting in a classroom usually doesn’t work. Below are some strategies to help you get
integrated in the local scene overseas.