Hey guys! I'm baaaack (I hope)!!! Today I'm just gonna chat about something that isn't really talked about too much as far as school goes: not having any friends in your classes. It seems like every post out there about school is about looking amazing or being outgoing or getting good grades, but why doesn't anyone talk about the introvert who finds it a little hard to make friends? Maybe it's hard to understand, I don't know. I hope this helps some of you guys who are just kind of there, alone, in some or all of your classes without a friend.
You know that person that's in your class who is a good student and never talks? Yeah, that's me. Maybe it's you too! It is sooooo incredibly hard to be an introvert or be a quiet person in a world where teachers and society are telling you that you need to be outgoing. It's especially difficult when you are in hard classes and you have no one to talk to or partner up with and when the teacher says to pair up? That's a nightmare. I've been there. I
am there. Girls can be so cliquey. Personally, I hate it when people tell me to make new friends. Most girls don't let you just jump right in to their conversations or sit at their lunch table. I think it's because they have friends so they think they don't need any more. It's annoying and disheartening. Before this gets to be some sort of sob story, I'll get to the point: how to survive class without friends.
1. Know that it will get better
Honestly, the only thing that is getting me through these classes is the fact that college is right around the corner. College will be better. High school or middle school are such a small part of your life that when you're done, it really won't matter how many friends you had or how popular you were.
2. In the words of Kelly Clarkson, "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger."
Even though it is terrible now, later on you'll be able to look back and say that you survived it. So many people go through school taking classes to be with their friends, but you, you got through it without a friend and that's something to be proud of.
3. Try to make aquantinces
Okay, so making new friends is obviously not going to happen in a short amount of time and it's harder when you aren't used to putting yourself out there. But try to make at least one aquantinces that you can ask a question. At some point you'll need a little help and aquantinces are the way to go.
4. Google is your best friend.
Practically everything can be found on Google (including some labs *hint, hint*). If you're ever stuck on a question at home, look it up or ask your parents or siblings.
5. Take detailed notes.
Since you don't really have anyone to talk with, you need to make sure you're attentive and you don't slack off. This will help you in the long run with tests and whatever else you need to do.
I really hope these helped. Remember that you're never the only one going through this. It may seem like it, but I can guarantee that there is someone out there that knows exactly how you're feeling. It stinks being in a class with no friends, but it's an opportunity to grow. I'm going on an overnight trip for a class where I have no friends. I'm terrified, not going to lie. But I'll get through it and so can you!
Be confident. Be friendly. Be attentive. You can do this!
If you guys ever need any advice or anything don't be afraid to leave a comment or drop an email. I'm always here!
Au Revoir!
Update
2/19/16
I've revised some things in this post from when it was previously published last year!
Everything will work out if you just believe!!! Seriously though, it'll all work out!
"And when she stood, she stood tall. She'll make a fool of you all."
-Slow It Down by The Lumineers
