Making Friends After the First Week
Hey everyone! I’m a college student from the Philippines, and I’m finding it tough to connect with people who don’t share my interests. It feels even more challenging since most of my classmates excel in our subjects, while I consider myself more of an average or below-average student. This sometimes makes me feel unworthy of their friendship. A friend mentioned that after the first week or so, most friend groups are already established, which might make it awkward for a newcomer like me to join in. Does anyone have any tips for breaking into those social circles? What’s going on here? Thank you!
Hey! It’s completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed when trying to make friends in a new environment, especially in college where it seems like everyone has already formed their groups. Here are some tips that might help you navigate this situation:
Join Clubs and Organizations: Look for clubs or groups that focus on your interests. This way, you’ll naturally meet people who share similar passions, making it easier to connect.
Study Groups: Even if you feel you’re not doing as well in your classes, joining a study group can be a great way to meet classmates. Everyone brings different strengths to the table, and you might find that your unique perspective can contribute to the group.
Be Open and Approachable: Smile and engage in small talk, even if it feels awkward at first. Sometimes, just being friendly and approachable can encourage others to reach out to you.
Seek Out Other “Loners”: There are likely other students feeling the same way you are. Look for others who seem to be sitting alone or are also looking for connections.
Attend Social Events: Participate in campus events, workshops, or mixers where you can meet new people in a more casual setting. People are often more open to making new friends during these gatherings.
Focus on Quality Over Quantity: It’s better to have a few close friends than to feel pressured to fit into a larger group. Seek out those who appreciate and value you as you are.
Be Yourself: Don’t be afraid to show your personality. Authenticity will attract the right people to you.
Reach out: If you find someone interesting in class, don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation after class or during a break. Sometimes a single genuine interaction can spark a friendship.
Remember, many other students are also looking for connection and friendship, so you’re not alone. Good luck, and remember to be patient with yourself! It takes time to find your place.