Exchange Students

I have learned so much in only the three weeks that I have been here about how to treat exchange students. I without a doubt have changed my perspective on them. We want to make friends, but it is hard when everyone already has their own friend groups. Here are my new rules ff there is an exchange student in my life:

-Invite them to stuff,

-Include them in the conversation, ask them to hang with your friends,

-Answer all their weird questions

-Tell them things about your culture

-Ask them questions about their culture

-Don’t be overly enthusiastic (else you might freak them out)

-But also don't blatantly ignore them.

-We appreciate it when you talk to us, even if you don't speak English well.

Previously I had no idea how to treat exchange students, and I wish I had known all this sooner. I probably could have helped them to have a better year and made a lot more friends.

Also, a note to exchange students: It is not the local's job to entertain you or make your year better. You are the only one who can control whether or not you have a good year. Most of the time you are going to have to take the first step towards friendship. People will be scared of you, you are a foreigner, do not take it personally. We are in for a crazy ride.