4 answers
Clàudia
Student
Valencia, Valencian Community, Spain
3
Questions
Asked
1479 views
How can I make friends at a new school and not be nervous?
Next year I'm going to another high school and even tho I know some people there I'm nervous because I don't know the majority of the people.
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4 answers
Mohit Goyal
Software Engineer
50
Answers
Gurugram, Haryana, India
Updated
Mohit’s Answer
Making friends in new school can be as simple and enjoyable as it was in previous school.
There are two main aspects to this process. First, you need to develop strong social skills, and second, you should look for the right person to be friends with.
Here are some tips to help you improve your social skills:
- Greet people with a smile
- Offer genuine compliments
- Try to understand others' perspectives
- Show interest in other people
- Remember names
- Discuss shared interests
- Steer clear of arguments
- Listen attentively
- Support and uplift others
A great book to read on this topic is "How to Win Friends and Influence People."
As for finding the right person to be friends with, trust your instincts. You can often find like-minded individuals in:
- Study groups
- Your classes
- Social clubs
There are two main aspects to this process. First, you need to develop strong social skills, and second, you should look for the right person to be friends with.
Here are some tips to help you improve your social skills:
- Greet people with a smile
- Offer genuine compliments
- Try to understand others' perspectives
- Show interest in other people
- Remember names
- Discuss shared interests
- Steer clear of arguments
- Listen attentively
- Support and uplift others
A great book to read on this topic is "How to Win Friends and Influence People."
As for finding the right person to be friends with, trust your instincts. You can often find like-minded individuals in:
- Study groups
- Your classes
- Social clubs
This was super helpful, thank you!
Clàudia
david kirk
Retired Computing Manager
480
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
david’s Answer
Hi, Claudia, That can feel stressful. I recall from my own time in HS. Remember, many other students are in similar positions, and ALL of the students have that feeling somewhat. That is, in every classroom, none of the students know everyone, but only a few, at most. So, just look for friendly eyes toward you and use that as your guideline. By taking the initiative for small talk, you will open the window for conversation and sharing with other students. At lunch, do NOT sit alone at a remote table. Instead, sit where you notice a few faces from one of your classes. It may feel stressful, but that lasts for only a moment. Other students are equally hesitant, and by your taking the initiative makes that first conversation easier for you both. I wish you well.
Thank you so much for the advice!
Clàudia
Janae Aptaker
Diversity & Equity
1
Answer
San Leandro, California
Updated
Janae’s Answer
1 - Embrace your uniqueness! Although it may seem like a worn-out phrase and can sometimes be challenging, the more you accept and feel at ease with your own self, the more people will be drawn to you.
2 - Don't hesitate to ask questions to approachable individuals - being a newcomer in a school, it's natural to have queries. Don't succumb to the urge to "keep to yourself" or "sort it out on your own", particularly if you're introverted. Seek out a welcoming person and inquire. While it doesn't guarantee a friendship, if they're extremely supportive or receptive, it could pave the way for further conversation.
3 - As often mentioned, participating in clubs, sports, or other school-related activities can serve as a great avenue to meet new people, as you all come together with shared interests. Taking on a leadership role in a club can also be beneficial, as it involves you in the planning process and allows you to interact with other key members of the club.
2 - Don't hesitate to ask questions to approachable individuals - being a newcomer in a school, it's natural to have queries. Don't succumb to the urge to "keep to yourself" or "sort it out on your own", particularly if you're introverted. Seek out a welcoming person and inquire. While it doesn't guarantee a friendship, if they're extremely supportive or receptive, it could pave the way for further conversation.
3 - As often mentioned, participating in clubs, sports, or other school-related activities can serve as a great avenue to meet new people, as you all come together with shared interests. Taking on a leadership role in a club can also be beneficial, as it involves you in the planning process and allows you to interact with other key members of the club.
Thank you so much!
Clàudia
Parker Fagen
Masters' Student
10
Answers
Boca Raton
Updated
Parker’s Answer
Starting at a new school can be both thrilling and a tad bit scary, and I completely get that. Here are some friendly suggestions to help you make new pals and conquer any jitters:
1. Be welcoming and easy to approach: Keep a smile on your face, maintain eye contact, and use open body language. This makes you seem approachable, encouraging others to strike up a conversation with you.
2. Make the first move: Don't hesitate to introduce yourself to your classmates, teachers, and school staff. Begin with a basic hello and share your name. Small chats can often lead to deep connections.
3. Get involved in clubs and after-school activities: Join clubs, sports teams, or any other after-school activities that you enjoy. This will give you a chance to meet others who share your interests, and friendships often grow from shared hobbies.
4. Lend a hand in your community: Take part in community service or volunteer work provided by your school or local groups. This is a great way to meet new people and make friends while doing something meaningful.
1. Be welcoming and easy to approach: Keep a smile on your face, maintain eye contact, and use open body language. This makes you seem approachable, encouraging others to strike up a conversation with you.
2. Make the first move: Don't hesitate to introduce yourself to your classmates, teachers, and school staff. Begin with a basic hello and share your name. Small chats can often lead to deep connections.
3. Get involved in clubs and after-school activities: Join clubs, sports teams, or any other after-school activities that you enjoy. This will give you a chance to meet others who share your interests, and friendships often grow from shared hobbies.
4. Lend a hand in your community: Take part in community service or volunteer work provided by your school or local groups. This is a great way to meet new people and make friends while doing something meaningful.
Thank you so much for your suggestions!
Clàudia