It’s that time of year again, where over 13,000 Catamounts swarm campus, from newly graduated highschoolers all the way to our 5th-year vets. 

It would be an understatement to call this an overwhelming experience—it goes beyond “overwhelming.” From seeing people that have been radio silent all summer, your ex that has a new partner and everyone in between, the experience goes beyond discomfort. 

All of this can cause a lot of anxiety that might take away from the fun and marvelous experiences that lay ahead. 

Fear not: I am here to help.

I have been the student that keeps her headphones on while making a beeline for class, missing every passing wave and “Hey Taylor!” that approached me. I have sat on the couch at parties quietly, leaning into my fear and uncertainty rather than excitement.

Here are some of my best methods to combat self-isolation due to social anxiety and ease the pressure of “FDOC.”

Class introductions

At the end of one of your classes, ask someone to study and grab their number or Instagram handle. This is a very low-stakes way of getting to know people outside of lecture, and a great way to share interests and knowledge with another person.

Hosting small events

Throwing a low-key dorm party for your floor can be a great way to make friends your age who are, at the end of the day, just as scared as you. If you are willing to spearhead a small event, it would definitely help others join you and break out of their shells. 

Mutuals

I am not just talking about following the same people on Instagram, but actively introducing friends to other friends and hoping, or even asking, they do the same. 

I have made very close friends by doing this. Think of it like the transitive property in math: you both are friends with the same person, and so it is more than likely you two would have something in common.

A friendly face

For everyone in the dorms, if you see someone around often, they likely see you as well. Introducing yourself with classic ice breaker questions like “What’s your major? How was last night’s Grundle dinner treating your stomach?” are easy ways to make a connection. 

On top of that, you can ask them to get breakfast in the dining hall, a low commitment meal that you can end with the classic exit phrase, “I need to get to class!”

Board games

Find a game you and the dorm next to you can play one night. Personally, my friends and I have been loving King’s Corner, BS and Bananagrams. We also love this online game called Quiplash, which is similar to Kahoot, and it always leaves us in stitches. 

Clubs

Joining clubs is not the only route to branching out. Granted, I am writing this on account of having joined a club, but it was not always this way. Some students have jobs, heavy class loads or just want to make friends without the additional commitment of a club. 

Clubs can be great for making friends and sharing interests, but again, there are other ways to connect with people. 

These are just a few but essential tools out of many I have learned during my time as a college student. Some of my closest friends are the biggest introverts I know, but our connection still flourishes in the college environment.

Don’t give up hope: be the one to be the new friendly face in someone’s life.