Welcome, exchange student!
How to welcome an exchange student.
Before I start, remember everyone is doing their own thing and it's based on my own experience and no rule to follow, more a guideline or something.
Go talk to them. Chances they already know someone is slim to none. And if they do know someone they often speak their 1. language with them. They're here to learn the language, the best way is to talk the language as much as possible.
Be friendly. Invite them out with your friends or arrange to show them around town. Networking is difficult, talking is crucial to learning the language.
Be articulate. Learning a new language is hard enough, learning to understand mumbling is especially hard even in your 1. language. But don’t overdo it.
Talk the language. If you live in an English speaking country, fine, ignore this, but if you're not, listen up. An exchange student is not someone to practice your English on. They've made an effort to learn your language, be kind enough to stick to it. If they don't understand, try and ask them, but don't switch over to English immediately. Try to explain, don't translate.
Sit next to them in class. I know you want to sit with your own friends, but it's disheartening to sit all alone. Your friends will stay your friends even if you don't sit with them in every class.
Don't simplify your language. They want to learn how natives speak.
Be interested. You probably already are if you have read so far, but talking about the exchange students country can help them feel more on safe ground. And I know I grew to love talking about Norway and the differences I experienced.
