From Stranger to Friend: Maria's Story

Maria's Journey: Finding Home in Suwon

Maria, a vibrant young professional from Brazil, arrived in Suwon with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Like many international residents, she initially found it challenging to navigate a new culture and build meaningful connections. 'Everything was new,' she recalls, 'the language, the food, the way people interacted. I felt a bit lost at first.'

Building Bridges Through Conversation

In the language circles, Maria not only improved her Korean but also shared her own culture and learned about others. 'It wasn't just about grammar or vocabulary,' she explains. 'It was about real conversations, sharing stories, and understanding different perspectives.' These interactions quickly blossomed into genuine friendships.

Beyond the language circles, Maria started attending GGN Local Meetups, Make A Circle's monthly cultural exchange events. From hiking in local mountains to exploring traditional markets, these outings allowed her to experience Suwon in a deeper way and connect with both Korean locals and other international residents.

A Sense of Belonging

'Make A Circle became my family here,' Maria says with a smile. 'They helped me feel at home, not just in Suwon, but within myself. I've made lifelong friends, and I've learned so much about myself and the world through this community.'

Maria's story is a testament to the power of community and the mission of Make A Circle: to help strangers become neighbors, fostering a sense of belonging and growth beyond language and culture. Her journey from feeling like a stranger to becoming a cherished friend in Suwon is an inspiration to us all.