Making your Host University Feel like Home

By Phoebe, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States

When i first landed in Raleigh, I was honestly a mix of emotions- excited, nervous and slightly terrified that i’d packed the wrong power adapter. Studying abroad at NC state sounded amazing in theory, but stepping into a new country, culture and campus all at once? That’s a lot. But, it didn’t take long for NC State to start feeling like home.

Orientation week was a blur of new faces, campus tours, and icebreaker games that made me forget everyone’s name five minutes later. But it was also where i met some of my closest friends- other international students who were just as confused as me about where to find everything. The NC State staff and students are so friendly. They really live by the ‘wolfpack’ spirit whereby everyone helps each other out.

Join a club. If you take anything from this- it’s this advice- join a club. I attended the sports club fair where they had representatives from every club you could imagine. I was immediately drawn to club swim and found by joining, it helped immerse myself into the American culture so much more.

It’s the small things that started making Raleigh feel familiar- grabbing coffee at Jubala, going on walks in Pullen Park, or even just sitting in Talley student union between classes. I’ve even learned to love southern food (especially mac and cheese- trust me when i say it hits different here.)

Game days have probably been my favourite experience so far. The whole campus turns red, everyone’s hyped, and you can really feel the energy everywhere. Even though i know nothing about American football, being in the crowd and wearing pack colours makes you feel a sense of belonging I never thought possible.

Overall, while my year abroad is only just beginning, Raleigh has become a second home to me and i love the city the same way i love Manchester.