A Guide for Foreign Students in Sydney on Making Friends

Although relocating to a new place to pursue higher education is an exciting opportunity, it may also be nerve-wracking to leave behind loved ones and all that is familiar. The ideal location to meet interesting people and form lasting friendships is in Sydney, one of the world’s liveliest and most multicultural capitals. International students studying in Sydney have a lot of chances to meet locals, have fun, and relax because of the city’s warm atmosphere, plenty of events, and stunning natural beauty.
For those looking for the best advice on making friends for life in Sydney, here it is:

1. Dive Into College Life

At Sydney’s universities, you’ll find a plethora of student organisations that cover every possible interest. There is a club out there for everyone, whether they are interested in sports, music, theatre, or social gatherings. Getting involved with these groups is a great way to find others who share your interests and build a support system.

Expert Advice: Schedule your calendars to coincide with your university’s orientation week! You should join as many clubs and associations as possible, go to as many social events as possible, and meet people during this time.

Some schools, like the University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales, have dozens, if not hundreds, of clubs and events that bring students together. Trying out some of the campus activities is a great way to meet new people and get a social life started!

2. Go to Community Festivals & Events

The energy of celebration is palpable in Sydney. Things are constantly happening, whether it’s a cultural procession, an outdoor movie night, a cuisine festival, or live music. These gatherings offer a casual setting where individuals may relax, meet new people, share stories, and gain a better understanding of the city’s rich cultural diversity.

Get Started Right Away: See what’s happening around you by checking out sites like Facebook Events, Eventbrite, meets, or Meetup. Visitors from other countries are expected to visit major events such as Vivid Sydney, the Sydney Royal Easter Show, and the Lunar New Year Festival.

3. Reside in Social and Convenient Student Housing

In terms of how easy it is to meet new acquaintances, your location might play a significant role. An example of a student housing community that prioritises community is Living High Co-Living. Common amenities in co-living facilities, such as kitchens, living rooms, and offices, promote communication and collaboration more than in conventional housing.

In addition to offering a place to stay, Living High Co-Living strives to foster a sense of community. The common areas and many social activities make our places ideal for making new friends. On top of that, you’ll be sharing quarters with other young adults who are just as excited about and familiar with the obstacles and opportunities that come with living in Sydney.

Why Choose Living High Co-Living?
-Strategically located near universities and public transport for maximum convenience.
-All-inclusive billing and unlimited WiFi, so you can focus on your studies and friendships.
-Vibrant community events and thoughtfully designed spaces to bring people together.
-A supportive environment where you’ll be surrounded by fellow students navigating similar challenges.

Discover your ideal living space with Living High Co-Living.

4. Join Language Exchange Groups

Meeting together with others who speak a different language can be a great way to learn and have fun if English isn’t your native tongue. In these communities, you can meet native speakers who are eager to pick up your language and form friendships based on a shared interest.

Common places for such meetings include neighbourhood cafes and community centres. You can find local events on sites like Meetup or on Facebook groups.

5. Explore Sydney Together

Famous sites and lesser-known treasures abound throughout Sydney, just waiting to be discovered. Plan excursions to famous landmarks like Bondi Beach, the Opera House, or Taronga Zoo for your group. Your bond with the city will become stronger and the memories you and your new friends will make will last a lifetime on these travels.

Get out of your comfort zone and meet some new people by inviting your classmates or roommates on a casual outing. Asking someone out on a casual Saturday outing can be all it takes to kick things off.

6. Volunteer for a Worthy Cause

Volunteering allows you to give back to the community while connecting with like-minded individuals. Sydney offers numerous opportunities for students to get involved in everything from environmental cleanups to charity work.

Get Started: Explore resources like GoVolunteer and Volunteering Australia to find opportunities that align with your interests.

7. Use Social Media and Networking Apps

In a strange place, social media may be a lifesaver when it comes to meeting locals. Sydney Private Room is just one of several Facebook groups where students can meet together to plan activities, get answers to questions, and discover events.

If you’re looking to meet similar-minded individuals, apps like Meetup and Bumble can help you out!

8. Embrace Cultural Exchange

You can expect to encounter individuals from various walks of life in Sydney, since the city is known for its multiculturalism. Meeting new people and learning about their culture is a certain way to bring people together. Hold a meal featuring traditional dishes from your homeland, share anecdotes about your traditions, or even teach someone a traditional dance.

What makes it effective: Being genuinely curious in other people’s histories fosters empathy and understanding.

9. Attend Networking Events

Networking events are frequently held by various institutions and groups for the benefit of students and young professionals. The main focus of these events is on careers, but they are also fantastic opportunities to meet like-minded individuals.

The finest friendships can blossom in the most unlikely of settings, such as a workshop or career fair, so it’s important to maintain an open mind.

10. Be Yourself and Stay Patient

True friendships are not made overnight. Stay true to who you are; it’s normal to feel lonely at first. If you want to surround yourself with positive people, be friendly, approachable, and receptive to new experiences.

Maximize Your Sydney Experience via Living High Co-Living

Sydney is a city of endless possibilities, offering warmth, diversity, and countless ways to connect with others. Whether it’s through student housing like Living High Co-Living, attending cultural festivals, or joining clubs, the key is to step out of your comfort zone.

Ready to start your Sydney adventure? Visit Living High Co-Living to find your ideal living space and begin creating unforgettable memories today!

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