How to Make Friends in an IELTS Review Center

There are two ways you can enroll an IELTS course. You can either choose to register in an online class or in a review center. Both provide IELTS practice tests to ensure that students are well equipped when they take the English proficiency exam.

One of the remarkable perks of joining an IELTS review center is meeting new people. These people may turn into friends or study partners as you have once common goal: to ace the IELTS exam. If there are lessons that you find difficult, you may turn to your classmates to help you understand these topics. You can also practice with them then provide feedback on areas that need improvement.

However, none of the advantages discussed above will come to life you if you do not socialize. Understandably, befriending a total stranger can be challenging. It can be intimidating at times especially as you get to know each other’s language strengths and weaknesses. Then again, you must remind yourself that you are not in a competition.

If you are having difficulties making friends, here are some ways that you can do to win one:

1. Introduce yourself – Make the first move and introduce yourself. This creates an impression toward your potential friend that you are sociable and approachable. It also encourages him/her to become at ease with you.

Tips:
• Say “hi” or “hello” in introducing yourself.
• Tell him/her your name or nickname (“Hi! I’m __________.”) Then ask for his/hers.
• Extend a handshake to welcome him/her or say “Nice meeting you!”

2. Ask common questions – Since you have just met, you do not want to make your newfound friend to feel that you are nosy. Thus, avoid asking too personal questions like “Are you in a relationship?” “When do you plan to get married?” “How many kids do you want to have?”

Tips:
• Choose topics that are general in nature, like current events.
• Given that you are all IELTS test takers, you can ask about his/her purpose for taking the exam.

3. Show that you are interested – Most people loved to be heard. It makes them feel good to see others paying attention to what they are saying; it encourages them to open up.

Tips:
• Maintain eye contact. This gives him/her an impression that you are interested in what he/she is talking about.
• Respond. It can be a verbal or nonverbal response.
• Avoid interrupting him/her while speaking. (In case you have to do so, tell him/her politely.)

4. Share something about yourself – At this stage, you have realized what you and your friend have something in common. You can now freely share your thoughts to drive the conversation further.

Tips:
• Open up about the things that interest you.
• Ask for his/her insights how something should be done or what is the best course of action about a certain situation.
• Relay an amusing story, about a movie or program you have recently watched.

5. Ask for his/her contact details – Follow through with the relationship you have established by asking for his/her contact details.

Tips:
• Invite him/her for group studies.
• Exchange IELTS test practice materials for review and feedback purposes.
• Say hi once in a while, even after your IELTS course program.

Overall, not everyone can maximize his/her learning by studying independently. Some may learn more with partners or buddies who are willing to explain and clarify difficult points. Others learn better when they discuss a lesson to someone. Regardless of your learning style, having peers to help and support you will leverage your IELTS preparation.