1. Stay Connected with Technology

When you’re far from home, technology becomes your best friend. Thanks to apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, FaceTime, and even social media platforms, staying in touch with loved ones—whether they’re family, friends, or a significant other—is easier than ever. Schedule regular calls or video chats to stay connected. Whether it’s a quick check-in with a friend or a long heart-to-heart with a partner, seeing a familiar face can make a world of difference.

Pro tip: Try to sync up time zones so that calls don’t interfere with your academic or sports commitments. Scheduling your catch-up time can help keep things organized.

2. Set Boundaries for Academics, Sports, and Personal Life

Studying abroad often means juggling academics, sports, and a new social life. It’s easy to get caught up in everything, but maintaining your relationships and friendships requires finding balance. Make sure you set boundaries for when you focus on studies or sports and when you make time for personal connections.

Pro tip: Use a planner or calendar to keep track of assignments, practice times, and social commitments. Block out specific times for relaxation, connecting with others, or making time for a partner or friends.

3. Be Honest About Your Schedule

The academic and sports schedules of international students can get packed, and that might mean not always having the time you’d like for personal connections. Whether you’re keeping up with long-distance friends or maintaining a relationship, it’s important to be honest about your commitments and the time you have available.

Pro tip: Communicate openly with your partner, friends, and family about your schedule. They’ll understand that your time is limited, but they’ll appreciate that you’re making the effort to stay in touch.

4. Make Time for Yourself

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with everything happening around you, but don’t forget to prioritize self-care. A healthy relationship, whether romantic or platonic, starts with a healthy you. If you’re stressed or burnt out, it will be harder to maintain meaningful connections with others.

Pro tip: Take time to do things you enjoy on your own—whether it’s reading, taking a walk, or having some alone time to recharge. When you feel good about yourself, you’ll have more energy to give to your relationships and friendships.

5. Celebrate Small Moments Together

Long-distance relationships or being away from home can make holidays like Valentine’s Day feel a bit lonely. However, don’t let the distance diminish the significance of the day. Celebrate the small moments that show appreciation for each other, even from afar. Send a sweet message, a virtual gift, or even surprise someone with a video call.

Pro tip: You don’t have to do grand gestures to show you care. Sometimes, a simple message or thoughtful gesture can mean a lot to someone far away.

6. Build New Connections

Studying abroad also means the opportunity to build new friendships and connections. You may meet people from all around the world, whether through class, sports, or social events. These new friendships can become an important part of your support system, helping you feel grounded and connected even when you’re far from home.

Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and engage with others. Building meaningful friendships in your new environment will help you feel more connected and supported.

7. Plan Visits or Future Plans Together

If you’re in a long-distance relationship, planning visits or even discussing future plans together can give you something to look forward to. Whether it’s a weekend getaway during spring break or a visit home after the semester, knowing when you’ll see each other again can help make the distance feel more manageable. Similarly, planning trips to visit friends you’ve made abroad can strengthen those bonds.

Pro tip: Plan ahead and keep each other updated about your schedules. Knowing that you have a visit or future plans will help keep your relationships and friendships strong and the anticipation alive.

 Being an international student can be both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to balancing relationships and friendships. Whether you're maintaining a long-distance relationship, building new friendships, or navigating life away from home, staying connected with those you care about requires effort, time, and communication. This Valentine’s Day, celebrate love in all its forms—whether it’s with a partner, a friend, or yourself. Remember, the distance doesn’t diminish the value of your connections; it just makes them stronger.