much every religion is represented in English-speaking countries. Going to mosque, for example, is usually possible wherever you study. Students will often meet native-speaker Muslims in that situation, for example, which can mean an easier friendship due to having similar values or beliefs. Most religious institutions in English-speaking countries, of course, are Christian. These churches will often have many different social organizations attached to them. Many churches throughout the English-speaking world have strong ties and experience with charity organizations in the community. Many also have “international friendship” groups that like to reach out to foreigners in the area. If there isn’t a group like this on your campus, there’s likely to be one in the wider community. These groups don’t usually try to change your mind about your religion, but rather offer friendship and opportunities to get to know the locals.
Making friends with internationally-minded native speakers
Native-speaker students are often a mystery to international students, especially to those students who come from cultures that are very different from English-language culture. But hopefully we can help take the mystery out of making friends with native speakers.
Students from English-speaking countries are usually very casual and can be quite friendly. Here are some basics you need to know.
Friendships in English-speaking countries can be made very quickly (especially in the US and Canada), but they may not involve the same level of closeness and obligation that many friendships in places such as Asia and the Middle East can.
Friends in English-speaking countries love to spend time together, but they also need time apart. Don’t expect to get calls and texts from your English-speaking friends all the time, and you shouldn’t call them all the time either.
The beginning of a friendship may be a little confusing and difficult. You may also find that not all native speakers want to make friends with international students. Try to find out if people you talk to are “internationally minded” that is they want to learn about other cultures. These native speakers are often interested in becoming friends with international students.
Starting a conversation
Don’t be embarrassed about your English! Try to be confident and don’t worry about asking people to repeat themselves or explain things that you don’t understand. Speaking to you is often an opportunity for English-speaking students to learn something about a new culture. But how do you start the first conversation? What you need is an “icebreaker” to help you do this.
icebreaker (noun): An icebreaker is something that someone says or does in order to make it easier for people who have never met before to talk to each other.
Other ways to “break the ice” (or start a conversation)
There are a few common ways that English speakers usually break the ice. If you’re interested in sports, you might mention something about the local sports team.
“How about those Giants?” (the New York Giants American football team)
If you’re interested in fashion, you might compliment someone on her clothes, nails, or jewelry.
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