ISO - August 2009 e-Newsletter
Fall semester is about to begin, and it’s not just about buying text books and stocking up on supplies. Going back to class means reuniting with old friends you haven’t seen since summer started and finding new places in the neighborhood to explore.
This newsletter reminds you to also be aware of all the exciting opportunities there are to meet fresh faces and make new friends! This semester, take the time and make a little effort to introduce yourself to new people, join new clubs and participate in new activities. It might make your Fall semester that much more memorable!
Here are some suggestions for discovering your new best friend right around the corner:
- You may have enough academic reading on your hands, but sometimes it’s nice and relaxing to be able to read something other than Tolstoy or Art History methodology. Join a book club in your area and spend a night a month meeting new people and discussing a fun paperback over coffee or dinner out! It’s a great way to meet new people that you may not meet in passing on campus or in your local Kinko’s.
- You know those pick-up football games and other sports that always seem to be going on in the quad on campus? Ask someone if you can join their team! Often, there are lots of sports and games being played on campus that you can join, no uniform required! Learn squash, pick up tennis, finally find out why all the Americans are calling football ‘soccer’ and American football, well, football…
- Volunteer, get a job! Not to sound like your parents, but if you have the time and the energy outside of class and activities with friends, find a community association, religious organization or even elementary school where you can volunteer your time. It’s rewarding, it can be lots of fun and you will meet people from all backgrounds and interests. Read books at the library to children’s classes, walk dogs for your local humane society, or just spend a few hours a week at the park helping to plant flowers or maintain a garden. If English is your second language, you might also consider teaching your first language at a local school. It will get you out and meeting new people while becoming a part of your new community.
- Explore the city! Sometimes the most interesting things, facts, and information about a place can be found in your own backyard. If you’re attending university in a city that’s unknown to you—or even slightly unfamiliar—find the nearest tour guide, vacation spot or fun attraction. You might find some interesting local friends along the way that you may never have otherwise met!
Just remember, exploring life, culture and the people around you is an important part of being an international student. Immerse yourself in your new home town or city and make new friends. Many people say that the friends you make at university are lifelong friends. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to find a life-long friend!
And as long as you’re making so many new friends, you can now also become a fan of ISO-Student Health Insurance on facebook! Get updates from ISO, suggest ISO to friends and, when you refer a friend, get $10 when they purchase an ISO insurance plan! What can be better—making new friends, helping them to find affordable insurance and making a few extra dollars at the same time?! All this networking is going to make for a great start to the school year!
ISO wishes you a happy and healthy Fall semester!
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