We asked 5 international students 2 questions about winter break…
What is one thing you wish your American friends would know about winter break? If your American friend could do one thing that would make you feel loved over winter break what would it be?
An international student from the African Subcontinent responds…
“Buy me a big winter jacket
But on a serious note…
Take me to see Christmas lights in your hometown and invite me to your Christmas family tradition.”
An international student from India responds...
“For internationals, I feel like that winter holidays is the most depressing time and the time they feel lonely the most because they miss their family and home and the celebrations.
I feel like this is asking a lot as it is winter break and they spend time with their family, but it would be nice if they take a day and spend with us or invite us to their home. Ultimately, the only thing during that time we miss is someone’s company so we don’t feel left alone. For me sometimes even a phone call would be great.”
An international student from Europe responds…
“Over winter break I don’t have a lot things to do so hanging out over the break with friends would be really nice. I haven’t been able to enjoy time with friends during the semester so winter time would be perfect for that.
One thing I’d really love is to play soccer with American friends over winter break. I know it’s a bit too cold now but the best soccer is when there is snow.”
An international student from East Asia responds…
“We don’t really celebrate Christmas on the eastern side of Asia. Sometimes people still go to school and work on the 24th and 25th so it was unusual for us to see businesses close here during the holidays. However it gets lonely when we watch people go to their families while we stay in our dorms/apartments alone with nothing to do. It’s always super nice to be invited to someone’s home in place of ours at home, though we don’t celebrate it there.”
An international student from Latin America responds…
“Winter is my least favorite season. Back home, we had just two seasons:rainy and summer season, so for me spending a break during my least favorite season away from home is sad and depressing. I miss the food, the celebrations and the company of those who love me. I think American students should know how much we struggle as international students. Being away from home is challenging every day especially if English is not your first language. I wish American students would understand us, intentionally getting to know us, and being a genuine friend.
American students have a chance to be a friend and invite an international student to their home. I can assure you that your new international friend will be always thankful! We just want company, feel included, and loved especially during the holidays that is a season of sharing and love.”
Winter is no doubt a hard season for the internationals among us. Hearing from the heart of our international friends probably has you wondering how to help. Check out this article for some practical ways to help our neighbors from the nations this holiday season.
