How to get through college as an introvert


If Hollywood is to be believed, college is all about partying, joining a sorority and being super popular. Of course, that isn’t for everyone, and in the real world, it’s not so easy. For an introvert, for example, the idea of college can be pretty terrifying, or at least a little daunting. While everyone else is hanging out in big groups 24/7, you like nothing more than to have a little bit of alone time. Here are our top tips for getting through college as an introvert.

Talk to new people

People often mistake introverts with being shy, but that’s not the case. You may get drained by being with people all the time and want to spend some alone time to recharge, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make some new friends. Especially if you join clubs of people with similar interests as you are likely to meet other introverts too. Other introverts will make great friends as they will understand that you like your own space sometimes as they do too!

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Get some headphones

This isn’t a time for AirPods; you’re going to want big over-ear headphones that can easily be seen. That way, if you really don’t feel like talking, you can put them on while you walk around campus and just smile at people as you walk past, rather than stopping and feeling obligated to make awkward small talk. Only a real monster would talk to someone unnecessarily when they are clearly wearing headphones!

Focus in on you

A big lecture hall full of people might feel like a lot, so the prime seating position to forget about all the other people around you is either at the front or to the side. That way you can focus on the professor or lecturer and feel as though you are the only other person in the room.

Find a secret spot

Find yourself somewhere on campus that is quiet and perfect for being alone. This way you can head there when you feel a little overwhelmed with other people and eat your lunch or read your book in peace, without worrying about who you might see.

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Be honest

Sometimes introverts can come across as a little rude to people who don’t understand, so don’t be afraid to explain that you just like to be alone sometimes and it doesn’t mean you don’t like them. Especially if it’s someone you’re going to be spending a lot of time with, like a roommate. This will make it much easier for you both.

Be okay with who you are

Although college is time to push yourself out of your comfort zone a little and try new things, that doesn’t mean you have to change who you are and become someone else entirely, especially if that means doing things that make you unhappy. There is nothing wrong with being an introvert and getting your energy from being alone, so be proud of who you are.
So remember, you have just as much right to a fantastic college experience as anyone else, and if you follow this advice, you will be just fine. Good luck!

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