I was hesitant to go to the international student event because I was tired after a long day of work, and the comfort of my bed was very enticing. But I decided that It was a good idea to meet new friends, especially since I had just moved to Hasselt, Belgium. So I dragged myself out of my room and across town to the place where the event was being hosted.
I walked in and glanced around the full room. It seemed that everyone was already gathered around in groups. I anxiously walked ahead and saw a group of young students. I went up to one of them, a brown-haired girl who seemed inviting and asked her if I was in the right place for the international student meeting. The girl lit up with a smile, and immediately started asking me where I was from and what I was studying. Her kindness was so welcoming, and all my anxiety melted away as we continued our conversation. It turned out that she was actually Belgian, not an international student but wanted to meet people from different cultures and backgrounds.
It turns out the girl, Sofie has become one of my closest friends here in Belgium!
Sofie Marra
