Studying Abroad in Cardiff next Spring

[u/Even_Conference8950]

Hey all,

I was curious if anyone had any tips for studying at Cardiff University next spring? I am a 20 year old M traveling from the united states and I am a bit nervous about the change but very excited! I have been fortunate enough to travel to London and Cardiff before and lets just say Cardiff stole my heart the moment I arrived. I love the Welsh culture and I am making an effort to learn the language and take a course in it. Any tips on how to make friends or build a community during my stay? Also would love to chat with anyone in the same boat as me.

[u/ReasonableMonk4908]

OP,

Please consider also posting your question on r/cardiffuniversity

[u/idgafbo55]

Good on you for learning the language. Not enough people that side of the ocean take the time out to learn English

[u/elmsyrup → u/idgafbo55]

This made me laugh!

[u/Welshbuilder67]

Contact the Student Union, see if they have any American groups at the Uni. Do you do any sports, the Uni./Students Union will have a wide range of sports club you can join and meet people at.

[u/Even_Conference8950 → u/Welshbuilder67]

Thats great to know, and yes I do play sports. Thanks for the info!

[u/elmsbud]

You'll be fine, cardiff is very friendly Join a university society or some local sports clubs.

[u/Maleficent-Bobcat-91]

Well I'm sure you'll make friends easily enough with people from your course. Cardiff is pretty vibrant and safe, fantastic place to study. The university likely has many clubs and societies to join so join whichever takes your fancy. If a couple of you like the idea of exploring there's plenty of beaches, castles, towns, hills and valleys, national parks within an hour or two by train, bus or car.  Perhaps you'd enjoy going to see Cardiff play rugby or football (socker), or an international rugby match in Cardiff is usually a very special day. Hope you enjoy your time here!

[u/Even_Conference8950 → u/Maleficent-Bobcat-91]

I would love to get involved in the rugby scene! Its not a major sport in my state but I've always thought it was a great sport to watch. I love the pride Cardiff has for their rugby team as well. Thanks for the info its very helpful! :)

[u/Maleficent-Bobcat-91 → u/Even_Conference8950]

Well the university has a team I'm sure you'd be welcome if you fancied giving it a go. But if you only want to watch, rugby crowds are very safe and friendly, often home and away supporters mix.

[u/MPD1987]

I’m American studying at CU- feel free to message me if you want!

[u/ishimat]

The language is English so you'll be right at home

[u/xxxobrienxxx]

American who moved to Cardiff this year, here! You just have to really put yourself out there. When you enjoy a casual chat with someone, ask them to hangout! Say yes to everything you’re offered. I have more friends here than I ever did in America. The people are so friendly and welcoming. Make sure you keep an open mind and put yourself out there. You’ll find so many good people :)

[u/xxxobrienxxx → u/xxxobrienxxx]

Also to note, Cardiff has a lot of international students. You’ll meet so many people in a similar boat as you.

[u/Comfortable-Ant-5522]

Make sure you go to Clwb Ifor Bach where you’ll meet a fantastic group of people and an introduction to Welsh music https://clwb.net/whats-on/

[u/elmsyrup]

When you're ordering in a cafe make sure you say "may I have a cappuccino please", and then thank them. Rather than saying I'll get/ I'll do a cappuccino. Or I've even experienced an American person standing in front of the barista and saying one word- "cappuccino" and nothing else. That's what makes people think that Americans are rude.