For months you look forward to the moment you depart for the United States. You say goodbye to family and friends, and suddenly you step off the plane into a new reality. The first few weeks on a US college campus are extraordinary. Everything is new: the language, the campus, practices, classes, and the people around you. While exciting, it can also feel somewhat overwhelming. Virtually every international student-athlete experiences an adjustment period, and that is completely normal. Having guided student-athletes through this transition since 2009, we consistently observe the same patterns. Those who feel at home the fastest are not necessarily those with the best English or the most outgoing personalities; they are the athletes who remain open to their new environment from day one.
Take initiative rather than waiting
The initial weeks at a new university are exciting for everyone—not just international recruits, but American freshmen as well. Everyone is seeking new friendships and navigating campus life.
We encourage you not to wait for others to invite you. Ask to join teammates in the dining hall, participate when group outings occur, and strike up conversations with classmates during lectures.
You do not need to be the most extroverted person on the team; small moments of initiative make a significant difference.
Limit contact with home
Nearly every international student experiences homesickness at some point. It is a natural part of the transition. The temptation to spend hours video chatting daily with family, friends, or partners back home is strong. However, experience shows that excessive contact often makes adjusting more difficult.
While keeping in touch is important, establish set times for calls or FaceTime. Dedicate the remainder of your time to being present on campus. The more time you invest in your new environment, the faster it will feel familiar.
Seize opportunities during orientation weeks
Universities organize numerous social activities during the opening weeks, including athletic events, barbecues, freshman orientation meetings, and student organization fairs.
Even if you feel exhausted from new impressions or crave quiet time, participate as much as possible. The people you meet during those initial weeks often become the friends you share your entire college experience with. Additionally, core team bonds are established during this initial timeframe.
Establish a daily routine quickly
Initial days on campus can feel chaotic as you navigate schedule changes and meet new people. Establishing daily structure helps restore a sense of control. (Read more about what a typical day looks like for a student-athlete).
Wake up at consistent times, schedule dedicated study sessions, find your preferred study spots on campus, and familiarize yourself with facility locations. Once a daily rhythm is established, you will experience greater calm and focus.
Avoid constant comparisons to home
Almost every international student eventually catches themselves making comparisons:
- “At my club back home, we trained differently.”
- “The food back home was better.”
- “Things were easier at home.”
These comparisons are natural, but try not to dwell on them.
You did not move to the United States for everything to remain identical to home. The differences themselves make the experience valuable. Embrace new traditions, coaching styles, and academic approaches. The quicker you accept these differences, the sooner campus will feel like home.
Make a strong first impression on your coach and team
First impressions matter in high-level athletics. Arrive in peak physical condition, demonstrate punctuality, and show a strong work ethic.
While American coaches value talent, they place equal emphasis on attitude. Are you coachable? Do you encourage teammates? Do you work hard when no one is watching? These qualities earn immediate respect within a program.
(H2) Connect with people outside your athletic team
Your team naturally becomes your core support system. However, building relationships beyond athletics is equally important.
Engaging through classes, an on-campus job, or campus events introduces you to students with diverse backgrounds and interests. This expands your social network and enriches your overall university experience.
(Read our guide on working as an international student-athlete in the US to learn how an on-campus job can help expand your network).
Give yourself time
Every student-athlete requires time to adjust to a new environment. Whether it takes a few weeks or a few months, it is completely normal.
Avoid placing unrealistic expectations on yourself during the initial adjustment phase. Each week, you will meet new people, navigate campus with greater confidence, and build trust in your new life in the United States. Before you know it, campus will feel like home. (Read more about how we guide you through our complete recruiting process).
Have questions about campus life in the US or want to learn how we prepare student-athletes for departure? Feel free to contact us.