<p>First off, don't feel dumb posting here! It's a good place to ask this kind of question. I'm a parent to three kids that are in college and a lot of what you experience "trying to find your niche" is common with many freshmen. In fact, one of my kids is at Purdue now and loves it, he is a freshmen. He is an introvert, so I am surprised he wanted to attend such a big school but it's working out well. He might be the nerdy person you talk about, ha! That said, some things he has done along with my suggestions might help you out.</p>
<p>Don't expect necessarily for a friendship to develop with your roommate, be glad if you can simply get along to live together, ha! There are many, many clubs...of course you know that. If you've tried a club and it seems cliquish, move on to another. I think there are like 600+ organizations? Maybe look for one that revolves around a passion or interest you have. Or you could experiment, attend a club or group about something you think you "might" like.</p>
<p>My son has found fun going to the sports complex and doing athletic things there, something he has not done in ages. He ended up even bumping into a few old friends from years ago.</p>
<p>If you are not into working out, swimming, etc. what about your religion? There are many religious groups on campus that have churches, services and activities.</p>
<p>Try going to different locations to work on homework. Like if you are always doing it in your dorm lobby, move to a library or a different lobby in a different building. Expose yourself to new faces and see if you can strike a conversation with someone. My son rarely hangs out with anyone on his floor. He ends up going to different dorms and the above-mentioned athletic complex.</p>
<p>And to answer your question, yes, I do believe it gets better as a sophomore. You'll be much more comfortable with your surroundings and have a better idea of who you, yourself are. All of my kids had some type of "did I pick the right school" feeling at first. Good luck.</p>
<p>If time allows, you might get a small on-campus job. That would get you in a different circle of friends and seeing more people.</p>