So in one week I'm going to be going to a 2 week summer program at a university near me, doing research with professors. I'll be staying in a dorm, which means I'll have a roommate, and about 20 other classmates. This summer program attracts kids from all over the country, and even the globe.
I'm pretty much the dictionary definition of introvert. My parents say I'm *too* introverted. I'm not a hermit; I just prefer spending time by myself rather than with big groups of people who just spend all day gossiping or doing other boring stuff. At school, I only have a handful of close friends, and I usually don't talk in class unless I have to. I never approach people first; I always let others approach me and start conversations and such. Part of the reason I'm so introverted is because I have social anxiety, which makes being an introvert so much more difficult. Going to this summer program will be my first time away from home, and I want to make it the best experience I can, because I've been looking forward to this for like six months.
My problem is... I just CANT be outgoing. Trust me, I've tried plenty of times over the years. Going to therapy and learning how to deal with my social anxiety got me out of my shell a little bit, but it's still a daily struggle. I can't even say hi to my teachers in the morning without stuttering and making a fool out of myself. When talking to people, I feel like I'm so awkward because I never know what to say or do to fit in with everyone else and keep the conversation going smoothly.
So, my question is, how can an introvert like me survive these 2 weeks? I want to become good friends with my dorm mate and my classmates, and I don't want to be that shy girl that everyone takes under their wing because they feel bad for her. I'm fun and have a great personality, it just takes a while for me to open up to people. How can I be more outgoing and make people want to become friends with me? I know I have to "fake it till I make it", but like, HOW do I do that?? It's time that I finally break out of my shell, I just need a little push of motivation to do so.
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