Maybe you have a new summer job or you’re going to a new school in the fall, but whatever it may be, I want you to know that you’re not alone when it comes to being nervous about making new friends. Here’s some advice I’ve gathered over the years about meeting new people that you might find helpful!

Try something new

Don’t be scared to do something completely different. For example, when I started high school I joined marching band. Since marching bands usually are only at the high school or college level, no one else my age had tried it in middle school. After two weeks of band camp in the summer, I instantly had a group of close friends to hang out with once school started.

Build meaningful relationships

Whether it is with your friends, family, or a significant other, make sure to put effort into your relationships. Take time to respond to messages and actively listen when others are talking to you. I personally don’t love small talk so I try to make sure to check in with my friends and family every so often to see how they are actually doing. No matter how long it has been since we’ve caught up my friends and family know that I genuinely care about their well-being.

Be yourself

One of my best friends from middle school said that he was ready to change his personality 100% because he was ready to be cool for high school. How did that turn out? Just over a month after high school started, he ditched his new wardrobe and nickname because he was tired of putting on an act. Be yourself. It takes a lot of effort to pretend to be someone else. Of course, this is easier said than done but if possible, try and surround yourself with people who make you feel comfortable being who you are rather than those that shame you or want to change you.

– Nathaniel