How to Make Friends During Your Mobility in Romania
Moving to a new country for your Erasmus mobility can be both exciting and challenging. It opens up a world of possibilities, but it also comes with some uncertainties, one of them being how to meet new people and make friends. Fortunately, Romanians are lovely people who will welcome you in their houses, so no need to worry about it!
The question remains how to meet new people, so in this blog post you will learn some tips on how to overcome the eventual cultural barriers you might encounter, socialize confidently, find the places where locals or other expats hang out and, finally, make friends while on your mobility!
Have fun while exploring the culture
No matter if you are just traveling to a new country, studying or moving, learning about its culture is a must. You can do it in various ways: listening to Romanian music, watching movies, trying traditional recipes or even learning how to cook some and then inviting your peers to taste.
If you show people that you are open about learning how they live, they will appreciate it and include you in their day-to-day life, so soon you will become part of the community.
Attend social events
What comes naturally with the last point I made is getting invited or finding social gatherings to take part in. Some examples include festivals, expats meetups, cultural events, and you can find most of them on social media platforms.
These events will come with opportunities to connect with other people who share similar interests and experiences with you. Be proactive in introducing yourself and striking up conversations and remember, most people who attend these types of events are also looking to make friends.
Learning the language
In the same way OLS connects you with fellow students who are also doing their mobility in Romania, you can find many language exchange events taking place in the city you’re in where you can practice speaking Romanian.
A fun idea if you don’t want to go looking for such gatherings would be to use OLS to chat with people on the forums and, why not, create your own language learning club where you can practice Romanian and exchange ideas. For instance, on this discussion topic you can connect with members from the Bucharest community, and on this one you can connect with members from the Cluj community. Feel free to comment to this blog post with the city you are doing your mobility in!
Use social media
In the digital age, social media and expat forums are very good resources for connecting with people in your new country. Join local social media groups, expatriate forums, and online communities related to your interests. These platforms allow you to ask questions, seek advice, and connect with potential friends before even arriving in the country.
Look no further than next door
Your new friend could be a person living in your dorm or apartment building. In Romania it is very common for students in dorms to socialize while cooking, studying, or playing games outside.
So, next time you see someone who you’d like to talk to, don’t hesitate to introduce yourself and ask casual questions such as where they are from or what they are studying.
Join clubs and organizations
When I was studying abroad, I found most of my friends through student organisations. There are plenty of them in Romania, you just need to find one that matches your interests. There, you will meet people who share common hobbies and passions. Whether it's a sports club, book club, or volunteering organization, engaging in activities you enjoy will make socializing easier. Not only will you find friends, but you'll also have the chance to improve your skills and immerse yourself in the local community.
Be patient
Last but not least, making friends takes time, especially in a new cultural context. Don't get discouraged if you don't make meaningful connections right away. Keep attending events, joining clubs, and reaching out to people, and eventually, you will find your buddies!
Moving to a new country is an adventure that can lead to incredible personal growth and meaningful connections. So, step out of your comfort zone, take the first step, and watch as your circle of friends expands, making your new country feel like a true home away from home.