Not Making Friends Like I Thought I Would...

College Life
1

<p>At my high school, I was a generally sociable person because I knew everyone and I was a leader in a lot of activities and at the top of my class; everyone knew who I was and I had a lot of teacher support. I just moved into my dorm yesterday. The person I've talked to the most is my roommate- I suppose I would consider us friends because we've been eating together and she's been trying to include me in stuff with her friends from high school- but other than her, I haven't been able to talk to many people. I don't know why, really, except for that I'm naturally just an introvert. I have a hard time going up to people and starting a conversation unless I know they're younger than me. For example, when I was a section leader in band, I had no problem getting to know my new flute players and joking around with them, even when I first met them. When I was in theater and a kid came to auditions that I'd never seen before, I always made a point of going to meet them, and I would usually say something silly or joke around with them. But it's different, I guess, when I'm not...over someone, I suppose? I don't know what it is. And I guess I don't make myself very approachable, because nobody has really approached me. I mean, a few people have introduced themselves, but that's about it. Classes start tomorrow, and since I'm in honors I'll probably have smaller class sizes and be with people in my hall, so maybe I'll meet people that way, but I'm not sure. We've already had a hall meeting, and I haven't really gotten to know anybody that way. I'm just afraid that when I try to go out and do activities, it'll be the same way. I want to join the theatre organization- and I even know some of the people in it via tumblr- but I'm afraid all those big personalities (because that's the majority of theatre people haha) will make me feel even more awkward and nervous. I also want to write for the newspaper, so I guess we'll see how that goes.
Anyways, can somebody give me some sort of tips to get over this awkwardness?</p>

<p>I guess the main thing I'm having trouble with is not being on top anymore. I liked it when everybody knew my name and knew what kind of person I was.</p>

2

<p>I’m not being mean but nobody cares who you were in hs. To everyone you’re just a new student. If you want to make yourself known try to be more social. Join a club or 2. Just be a nice person and you will make friends. GL!</p>

3

<p>I would simply advise you to be more open and sociable towards others. Learn to get over your shyness and voluntarily talk to others and approach others. If you try that and it’s still not working, then start off by pretending they are younger than you, just to get comfortable (although you might come off as arrogant).</p>

<p>Just be nice, friendly, and join some activities where there are a lot of people.
Good luck! :)</p>

4

<p>It’s been a day. You’re not going to instantaneously have tons and tons of great friends. You’re doing all of the right things–you just haven’t had the time to do them because you just moved in yesterday.</p>

<p>Relax, you’re going to be fine.</p>

5

<p>You are lucky you are interested in theater, I think that is a GREAT way to get to know people. Theater is so intense and such a bonding experience – definitely join the theater group! Newspaper is good, too – those late nights and agonizing over writing headlines can also help you get to know people. You have been on campus less than two weeks, right? And your roommate already has friends there from high school. Just hang in there, keep doing stuff with your roommate until you get going in classes and with theater and newspaper. If your hall or dorm has any activities, go to them for sure. And if you get a chance to join (or form) a study group for your classes, do that too. You won’t have new friends <em>poof</em> like magic, but in a few months you will find yourself with some people you like to hang around with. Don’t worry, just go ahead and join things you are interested in.</p>

6

<p>Ooh, okay. I think I was just having a panic moment earlier today because…well, I don’t know why. Me and my roommate ended up hanging out with two other girls in their dorm tonight, so I guess things are picking up after all. I just tend to worry about these things. Thanks!</p>