How to build a community as an international student in London
Moving to London as an international student can be both a thrilling and nerve-wracking experience. The city is a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and opportunities, making it a perfect place to build a new community and create lasting memories of your time at university abroad.
Read on for some tips to help you connect with fellow students from home and abroad – and make London feel like home.
Join university societies and clubs
University societies and clubs are perfect places to meet new people who share your unique interests. Whether you’re into sports, arts, gaming, or even more niche hobbies like knitting, folk music or Quidditch, there’s likely a student group for you.
Staying active in particular is crucial for your wellbeing while you’re studying. University sports clubs and fitness classes are ideal places to meet fellow students in a relaxed setting. The regular meetups will help you build up friendships over time.
Attend orientation events
Orientation events are specifically designed to help new students settle in and meet each other, so it’s worth adding a few to your calendar. They often include tours and social gatherings, too, so you can connect with others while getting familiar with your surroundings.
It’s also worth seeing if your university or student accommodation hosts any city tours. Student-led tours are a great way to get familiar with the city, as you can ask your peers questions about what it’s like to study here and get some insider tips on, say, the best cheap eats around or the quietest study spot nearby.
Volunteer locally
Another great way of getting to know fellow students and people in the local community is through volunteering. This will not only allow you to give back to your new community, but it will help you meet locals and other students who are passionate about similar causes.
You could join an environmental clean-up event at a local park or canal, or volunteer at a food bank near you after classes. If you don’t have lots of spare time, many charities are flexible around people volunteering on an ad-hoc basis. You can check your local council’s site to browse through the opportunities and see if any are right for you.
Tap in to the power of social media
It’s called social media for a reason!
Using these platforms and apps, whether that’s Facebook, Instagram, or even your university portal, can help you find out what’s happening around you and join groups with common interests.
Facebook groups in particular can be useful for finding local events and gatherings for international students or people from your home country. Your calendar will be full in no time!
Explore cultural societies
Joining a cultural society is a wonderful way to connect with people who share your background and culture. It’s likely there is a students’ association run by, and dedicated to supporting students of your nationality at university.
If you join, you’ll be able to celebrate festivals, enjoy cultural events, and build a social support network to help you throughout the academic year and beyond.
Research international-student-friendly accommodation
While there are plenty of accommodation options for students in London – including private rentals or on-campus halls – a good option for international students can be a private accommodation that has years of experience hosting international students.
At Beaumont House, we take pride in providing excellent student accommodation and student rooms to rent in London, for all Malaysian, UK and international students.
Our building has an inclusive and accommodating environment that’s perfect for international students that want a home away from home. For Eastern cultures especially, we offer a dedicated prayer room, ablution room and specialised international student services.
On top of this, you’ll get high-speed WiFi, 24-hour security, and plenty of common shared areas including a communal sharing kitchen so you can cook together and meet new people right in your building easily.
Be open and relaxed – but proactive
Building a community as an international student takes time, and requires effort and openness. Don’t be afraid to take the first step to meet new friends.
If you see a fellow student sitting alone in the cafeteria, join them for lunch. You’ll be surprised how far the question, “what do you study?” goes on campus.
Remember, everyone is experiencing the same thing – whether they’re an international student or not. Putting in a little effort to meet new people in your first few months here will go a long way to help you build meaningful friendships and connections for your future.
To check room availability in our building, or to find out more about living at Beaumont House, contact us or give us a call at +44 203 195 3214.
