How to stop feeling left out in college?

[TennisGirl]

I am a freshman who lives on campus. I've tried...

-walking straight up to people
-hanging out with people on my floor
-joining clubs
-starting small talk before/after class
-going to all events that I could (athletic events, art stuff, etc.)

Yet, I feel lonely. I've failed at orientation and I'm failing now. People have already formed their friend groups. It is extremely difficult. Do I talk to people? Yes. But it never goes beyond small talk. To make matters worse, we played a game where we had to write down a compliment about anyone in the room. Guess who didn't get a compliment? Me. I'm not letting it bring me down, but it still sucks.

I am struggling being myself. People don't like me being myself. I am goofy and nearly all the girls find me weird for that. They look at me funny when I try to crack a joke. Often there are too many girls with outgoing personalities in the room to even get a word in. I consider myself outgoing, but it is hard when they already have friends.

It pains me the most to see posts on facebook of people at college having the time of their lives. The only thing keeping me here is the schoolwork/education. Although that is at the center of what college is about, it is a LOT less enjoyable when you are lonely. How am I supposed to unwind? TV and music can only do so much...

[Fanaticalparent513]

I am in the same situation young grasshopper.

I was a Freshman too and I can say that Freshman year was downright the best year I have had. Living close to campus is always great; but believe me, it pains me more than it pains you.

I came from California to Kentucky for college and after Freshman year, I am so lonely. It sucks! I forgot what it was like when people wanted to meet someone. I rejected so many girls and I never really formed friendships with people that I had talked to in my classes. It just goes to show you that you need to find a way to start doing these sorts of things.

Talk to girls in your classes and ask them if you can tag along or eat with them at your food court or something. Might as well start somewhere. It's not just you. There are many people like that. Most of all, be who you are. Many girls will go into college having the best time of their lives, but they become irresponsible. Have sex when they should not and end up worse with disease and a broken heart. Be proud you still have not been there yet. College is not everything.

[WEWBWB]

I spent the first few months of college alone. Only difference between us is that I didnt care. I wasnt outgoing, I was shy but I spoke my mind (nothing mean just things people usually dont talk about.) one day I found a friend who enjoyed my oddballness (not a word I know) and then other people started joining in on our conversations.

Give it time. You dont want to force a friendship and you should want people to like you for you. It may be hard but try to focus on you. Do homework, join a club that you find interesting, hang out alone in the student center. Enjoy your own company and someone else will too.

Gl!