New girl, new country...new language!

I recently moved from the U.S. to a country in Europe. I'm really nervous about starting school. Especially because the country I moved to doesn't speak English. I will be attending an English-speaking international school, but it's only about 20 kids per grade.


All my friends, family, and random kids from my old school tell me not to worry, I'm so nice, friendly and pretty, so I'll make lots of friends. But I don't think so...because usually when I'm in a place for the first time I'm really shy. I'm also worried that since the school is so small I won't ever get friends like the ones I have now.


How can I ease my nerves and show everyone the real me when I walk through that door?


-The New Girl


Hey New Girl,

Starting school is always super scary, but starting a completely new school in a completely new country is completely intimidating, I'm sure. You're not the only gal who gets intimidated by new scenarios. Before I went to college I was SOOO scared to leave. I didn't think I would make any friends. Or I thought that any friends that I would make would be nothing like my tight-knit group of high school friends that I had become so comfortable with. It's totally natural to be scared of the unfamiliar, but don't fret. There are plenty of things you can do to kick these feelings of shyness and get geared up for an awesome year!


Being away from your friends and outside your comfort zone can be nerve-racking, but the way to make the best of it is to put yourself out there and really try to talk to someone new. It's natural to be nervous, but the best thing you can do is just be yourself. Don't try too hard. Start off small. Maybe tell the girl who sits next to you in math class that you love her sweater and were wondering where she got it! Or ask that cute guy behind you what he thought of the test last week. Soon chatting up people will become super easy!


The great thing about people is they're always open to new friends. If you just act naturally, and be the sweet and lovable person that you are, people are sure to gravitate towards you. As your friends and family said—you're a total catch! You're nice, friendly and pretty. What kid at this new school wouldn't want you as their new BFF?! Take this as an amazing opportunity to start over and do things that you've always wanted to do like joining a new club. And learn whatever new language is native to your new country! It'll be so much fun, and you'll score even more international pals.


Remember how I told you I was soo nervous before I started college? Well, three years later, I have that same closeness with my college buds that I had with my HS pals, AND I've maintained the same friends I had from HS. Your true friendships will never fizzle, but it's even better because now you can expand your group of besties even further.


Moving is always an extremely difficult transition. I know you're anxious, but be the confident gal I know you can be, and I promise it won't be as bad as you think. Get excited, chica!


-Jackie E.

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POSTED IN ,

8/27/2009 7:00:00 AM
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