commentr/StutterAugust 9, 2024

Content

Making friends in college certainly didn't come naturally to me. My first ~year and a half were pretty depressing, to be honest. Occasionally seeing my old high school friends at a nearby college and the weekly poker game I was a part of is what kept me going. Eventually I decided I had to make a conscious effort to be more outgoing and whatnot despite the stutter. That got me into my first party (at my college), and things almost immediately started improving rapidly from then on. Then I somewhat unknowingly got involved with a fraternity, and that has been wonderful so far. I'm going into my third year now and it's the first time I'm actually excited to be going back. I will say though, your experiences in high school will more than likely not be replicated in college. The people are just generally much more mature. Everyone is focused on not failing and getting internships and stuff, they don't really have the time or energy to be assholes for no reason, and other people don't have the time or energy to indulge the occasional asshole. Definitely don't hesitate to find some clubs that interest you. Even if they dont necessarily create any lasting friendships, at least you'll get a regular dose of human interaction that everyone needs. Whenever you sit down in the first few days of classes, introduce yourself to those sitting next to you. Ask them questions about the material during the lecture. Walk with them to your next class if you're headed in the same direction. It took me years to realize this, but all you need to do to make friends is be around people regularly. If said people like you, they'll stick around. If not, so be it.

Themes

Social & RelationshipsSchool & WorkEmotional Experience

Subthemes

Friendships & BelongingSchool & Academic LifeHope & MotivationLoneliness & Isolation