Difficulties In Making Friends & Not Enough Time With Friends / Question
Published: November 25, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Hi, I hope you understand what I'm going to say, because my English is not so good. I'm in 12th grade now, and I just moved to a new school 2 weeks ago, and I don't know anyone here in this school, I've tried to make new friends but it's not working, because they are like groups, and I like one of the groups they seem cool, but the problem is I don't know how to join their group as one of them, to hang out with them, study with them, and all those stuff that groups usually do together, I don't want to be just friends with them, I want to be one of them, how do I join? I can't just go to them and say, "hi, my name is X, can we be friends?" and I'm not that kind of person who starts a conversation, and when I do. They don't seem like they want me to keep going, what should I do :( ?
Signed: Moved To A New School 2 Weeks Ago - How Do I Join Groups?
Dear Moved To A New School 2 Weeks Ago - How Do I Join Groups?,
It is really tough to start at a new school, especially in senior year when most other kids have been together for four years. TeenHealthFX is glad to hear that you have been trying to make friends, but it may take longer than two weeks (which we realize seems like a long time to you!).
Getting to know people is a process that takes time; it is not really possible to "be one of them" right away. You can start just by saying hello and by asking some questions, find out if you have any shared interests to build a relationship. You can also join activities or clubs that you are interested in - you will find people who share similar interests as you.
Also, if you practice a religion, you can check out youth groups in your house of worship. You can also volunteer in your community (like the Red Cross or maybe your local hospital). Both of the above will allow you to meet people as well as help out others.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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