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Making friends in a new city
We're not going to lie. Making friends in a new city can be challenging. But one of the great things about being an (international) student is that plenty of people are in the same boat as you. So let's get started and make some friends!
Join your study association
During class, you're surrounded by a lot of people. But unfortunately, you don't necessarily click with the person sitting next to you in the lecture hall or find someone to talk to during the break. Joining a study association is an excellent way to meet new people and do fun and educational activities together.
Join a club or course
If you want to meet people with the same interest, you will meet them doing exactly what you like. It's simple as that. So, sign up for that pottery course, salsa class, or sports club. Amsterdam has many options, so finding a club you like should be easy!
Meetup
MeetUp is a great website to connect people to meet in person over their shared interests. There are already hundreds of Meetup groups in the Netherlands, so you're almost sure to find something in your area. Join a group that's going to a movie you already wanted to see, go bowling, or play your favorite board game with people that are just as excited about it.
Amigos
You are constantly surrounded by people looking for company, just like you. But how do you find them? With the Amigos app, you can select what you are up for. The app is used for spontaneous meetings, such as house parties, watching soccer, playing games, or running together. You can automatically invite people nearby.
Bumble BFF
Bumble has three modes: Bumble Date, Bumble BFF, and Bumble Bizz. Once you register an account, you'll be taken to a home screen where you can choose Bumble BFF. Like the dating version of the app, you complete your profile by uploading pictures and interests and indicating what you're looking for. If you've already used it for dating, you can open the app and click the grey silhouette at the bottom left of your screen. Then, hit the setting icon, and the app will bring you to a menu where you can switch modes to BFF. Let's swipe!
Facebook groups
While many of us may not use Facebook anymore, it can be a very handy platform for meeting new people and making friends when arriving in a new city. There are a lot of different groups for all types of people. Here are some nice examples: