While some students get to go home to spend the holidays with friends and family, expensive travel costs mean that international students often end up spending Christmas at their university or in their student accommodation. This can be a lonely time so it’s important to try and find a community to spend the holiday with.
Create a Holiday Family
Build friendships with students in the same boat as you. If there are some students who, like you, can’t go home for the holidays or don’t celebrate the festive season, you could create your own holiday family. Reach out to fellow students and make plans together for holidays like Christmas. Everyone needs a support network and it’s a great way to be there for each other.
Check out University Events
Some universities organize events, meetups, or meals for international students staying over the holidays. It’s worth checking out if anything is happening on your campus. This is a great way to have a unique Christmas and meet new people from your university! Also, charities like International Students House provide a great Christmas Day program with international students at the heart of it. Book a ticket for yourself and spend Christmas with peers from different universities and different countries.
Look for Groups From Your Country
Perhaps the UK isn’t your home turf and travelling home isn’t possible at this time of year. Look for groups and events associated with your nationality and try to join or attend an event. You can create your own ‘National-style’ Christmas or even take a weekend trip away with your fellow nationals. Each of you will understand the difficulties and emotions of having Christmas away from home, and it’s a perfect time to bond and support one another.
Volunteer and help local communities
Immerse yourself in the local community if you’re finding uni life challenging. At Christmas time, charities are often understaffed as people are off for the holidays, so try volunteering at a local dog rescue or home for the elderly. You’ll be preoccupied with a new purpose and can connect with a whole new friendship group – plus enjoy a Christmas outing with plenty of new people!
If you are interested in volunteering over the holidays here are some good options for you:
Help Out a Food Bank
There are people in our communities who struggle to feed their families all year round, and Christmas in particular is a time when people feel the pinch. If you’re lucky enough to have plenty to eat already this year, why not donate some extra food or a few hours of your time? Both could make a big difference. Putting together a reverse advent calendar is also a great idea. Check out The Trussell Trust’s list of food banks to find one nearby you could help.
Good Gym
If you like exercising and sports this might be a great option for you. Good Gym brings people together to stay fit whilst doing something good in their community, whether it’s gardening at a community centre or repainting a retirement home. Click here to learn more about Good Gym.
Crisis at Christmas
Crisis, the national charity for the homeless, is running its annual campaign to make Christmas a reality for those without a roof over their heads. From helping with collections to cooking up a mean Christmas feast, or even throwing a party, there are tons of ways to get involved! Find out more here.
Have you also read these articles?
Spending Christmas in The UK as an International Student
Holiday Shopping Guide: Gifts to get your Friends and Family this Christmas!