How to Make Friends While Learning Spanish in Spain
Moving to Spain to learn Spanish is an exciting experience, but if you’re travelling alone, you might be wondering: “How am I going to meet people?” The good news? Making friends while studying Spanish in Spain can be easier than you think — especially when your Spanish school creates opportunities to connect from day one.
At AIL Español, we know that arriving in a new country can feel exciting and intimidating at the same time. That’s why our student experience goes beyond the classroom, with cultural activities, social events and opportunities to meet other international students in Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga and Valencia.
So, how can you make friends while learning Spanish in Spain?
Here are some of the easiest ways to start.
Start Talking to Your Classmates
Your Spanish classroom is probably the easiest place to make your first friends in Spain.
Why?
Because everyone already has something in common: you’re learning Spanish and experiencing life in Spain together.
Your classmates may come from completely different countries, speak different native languages and have different reasons for studying Spanish. But that diversity is exactly what makes the experience so interesting.
Join the Welcome Tapas
Take Part in Cultural Activities
If you’re wondering how to make friends while learning Spanish in Spain, one of the best answers is simple:
Say yes to activities.
Cultural activities give you a reason to spend time with your classmates outside the classroom while discovering Spanish culture.
Depending on the destination and programme, your experience might include cultural visits, language exchanges, food experiences, social events, excursions or other activities designed to help you experience Spain beyond your lessons.
Use Spanish as Your Common Language
Here’s something interesting about studying at an international Spanish school in Spain:
You might meet someone from Germany, France, the United States, Turkey, Japan, Brazil or somewhere completely different.
You may not share the same native language.
But you do share one language you’re all trying to learn:
Spanish.
That creates a unique opportunity.
Remember That Other Students Want to Make Friends Too
This might be the most important thing to remember.
When you arrive at your Spanish school in Spain, you probably won’t be the only person who doesn’t know anyone.
Many other international students have also arrived alone.
They’re also wondering who they’ll have lunch with.
They’re also looking for someone to explore the city with.
They’re also hoping to make friends.
So don’t be afraid to introduce yourself.
The person standing next to you at your first activity might be just as happy as you are that someone started the conversation.
What If You’re Shy or Travelling Alone?
You don’t have to be extremely outgoing to make friends while studying abroad.
Start small.
The advantage of studying at AIL Español is that you don’t have to create every opportunity yourself. Classes, Welcome Tapas, cultural activities and social experiences give you natural opportunities to meet people and become part of the student community.
You just have to take the first step.
Whether you choose Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga or Valencia, you won’t just be choosing where to study Spanish.
You’ll be choosing where your next experience begins.
