How To-51: How to Make Friends at a New School

Friday, June 13, 2008

How To-51: How to Make Friends at a New School

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

It's difficult to start attending a new school. Everything seems to be so strange, and you don't know which direction to go for your own classes. Making new friends can also be hard, because everyone seems to have made their own cliques. However, you can integrate into your new environment and have just as much fun as in your old school.

Steps

Take a deep breath. You shouldn't be so nervous, you're going to a new school, not to the gallows. Remember that in your new school you will find kids your age. You're going to meet people like you there. Don't stare at others before you get to know them.
Be yourself. Never change who you are to try and fit in. If your friends don't accept you for you, they're not really friends.
Be hygienic. Nothing makes a worse first impression than a whiff of B.O. or bad breath that could knock someone over. Shower daily, wear deodorant, brush your teeth, and wash your hair . Designer clothes aren't everything, but look neat. It can make you seem friendlier and more approachable.
Be inviting. A smile goes a long way. When you walk in the halls, don't hunch over your books or keep your eyes on the floor. Stick your chin up and make eye contact with other people. If you see someone you know, give a smile or say hi. Introduce yourself. Tell them your name and where your from. Ask a question: "What do you do for fun?" Chat about the new school: "Have you been here since kindergarten?"
Make the first move. Anywhere, in the bathroom, near your locker, or at the water fountain, you can find someone that has things in common with you, all you need is to know how to approach them. Strike up a conversation, smile and compliment them, and, of course, introduce yourself and tell them where you came from! You never know where you can find a nice friend.
Do something nice for someone. Save someone a seat. Say "hi" in the hall. Give congratulations for a job well done. Pay a compliment: "I like your backpack."
Join after school activities you like. Choir or theater or hang around for a French club meeting, etc. Even if you don't know anyone there, you'll all share a common interest, and you can experience with different personalities from yours that have the same interest!
Look for other people who are new to the school. You're probably not the only one and at the very least, you'll have one thing in common: you're both in an unfamiliar environment. The good news is, if you are starting at a new school in startup year, almost everyone is new! Since being new is something that you all have in common, making new friends shouldn't be that hard. Talk about your old school, your new school, your opinions, grades, teachers, etc.
Don't sit at the back of the class where other people dont notice you! Try to sit in the middle where your around everyone and can make conversation.

Tips

Don't let people tell you you're a loser. Finding good friends is tough, and sometimes nearly impossible. But there are people who like you for you so you're never a loser. You just haven't found the right people yet.
If you're really having trouble, or are feeling depressed, then get some help. A little bit of counseling can make you feel ten times better and can improve your self confidence and social skills.
Quality over quantity. Don't automatically assume that the more friends you'll have, the happier you'll be. A few close friends can lead to richer relationships than a large but impersonal group.
There's someone out there looking for a friend just like you, don't be afraid to go up to someone and say: "Hi!" If they don't seem like your type, that's okay. There's tons of people out there who could be your best friend!
Join or form a study group. This is a quick way to make (potential) friends, establish and multiply your network, and get timely academic support.

Warnings

Don't try too hard. This really falls under the category of changing yourself in order to seem more attractive to others. Don't fake interest, or cling on to people you want to be friends with. Be natural and friendly, but don't overdo it.
Be careful, you don't want to make someone mad by going up and talking to them. If it looks like they are in a bad mood, it'd be a good idea to stay away!

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Ideal Education

Friday, June 13, 2008