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Moving to a new country can feel isolating. Having a circle (even a small one) helps with emotional support, practical help, navigating systems, and simply enjoying life outside studies.

Strategies by Personality Type:
For Introverts
Introverts often prefer deeper one-on-one interactions to large social settings. Here are strategies:

• Join small interest groups or clubs: Book clubs, language meetups, board game nights, etc.

• Volunteer in quieter roles: Many volunteer organizations welcome help—this gives shared purpose and easy conversation topics.

• Use class or study groups: Start by connecting with one classmate and build from there.

• Attend “low-stakes” social events: Coffee meet-ups, library events, or cultural nights with fewer people.
• Take breaks to recharge: Don’t overcommit; schedule downtime so socializing doesn’t drain you.

For Ambiverts
Ambiverts (somewhere between introvert and extrovert) have flexibility. You can adapt strategies to the situation.

• Mix small and larger events: You might enjoy both a quiet study group one week and a larger party the next.

• Dip in-and-out: Join events but feel free to leave early if you’re feeling drained.

• Alternate modes: Socialize in person and maintain contact digitally (chat, social media) to reduce pressure.
• Use “bridging” activities: Invite acquaintances to study with you, attend social events together.

For Extroverts
Extroverts thrive on social energy. Here’s how to connect fast (without overwhelming yourself):

• Be proactive in class/tutorials: Introduce yourself to people before/after lectures.

• Attend large campus events: Orientation, club fairs, sports events, parties.

• Host casual get-togethers: Movie nights, brunch, game nights—invite classmates over.

• Join leadership roles in clubs: Organizing events helps you meet many people.
• Network through work/volunteering: If you work part-time, use that as another social domain.

Universal Tips (All Personality Types)

• Be a “connector”: Introduce people to each other; that builds goodwill.

• Follow up: If you meet someone, exchange contact details and message them later to hang out.

• Use social media & gaps: Facebook uni groups, student forums, meetup, etc.

• Be consistent/persistent: Friendships take time.

• Be open-minded culturally: Some Australian norms (e.g. Aussie slang, relaxed social style) might differ—ask questions.
• Have a “social project”: E.g. aim to meet one new person a week or attend one event per fortnight.

Challenges to Anticipate

• Cultural differences: Different communication styles, sense of humor, or social norms.

• Transience: Many students are short-term, so relationships may change over time.

• Busy schedules: Classes, assignments, jobs make scheduling tough.
• Homesickness and language barriers: Might inhibit initiative.

Despite these, many international students build lifelong friendships. Many universities also run “buddy” or “peer support” programs to help newcomers get connected.