The most important way I have made friends is by saying yes to new opportunities. I try to accept every invitation I receive. Even when something feels outside my comfort zone, I make an effort to try it.
I have competed in sports that I had never played before and tried foods that I would not normally eat at home. Sometimes these experiences feel a little uncomfortable or embarrassing, but they have helped me meet many new people. Because of this, I have discovered activities and foods that I now love.
For example, this past weekend I competed in a badminton tournament with some of my friends from Vovinam. I did not know how to play badminton, and I was worried I would not be good enough for the tournament. My friends encouraged me to try anyways. I did my best in the competition and had a lot of fun!
Conclusion
Moving to a new country can feel lonely and difficult at first. It is hard being separated from family and friends back home. However, joining activities, spending time in the community and being open to new experiences can make a big difference. By playing sports, drinking coffee with coworkers and saying yes to new opportunities, I have been able to build meaningful friendships in Viet Nam. These experiences have helped me feel more connected to my community and more confident living in a new place. I hope to maintain these friendships throughout my life!
