How can I be more outgoing to people in my dorm?

Question

I'm shy and introverted by nature, but I want to get to know people and not let them think I'm avoiding them because I'm some sort of a snot. Any suggestions would be nice.

Answer 1

Maybe start out slowly..set a goal to meet one new person a day.Just saying hi how are you usually is enough to start a conversation.Dont try to overwhelm yourself by meeting all the dorm at once..it will get easier with each person.Best of luck:)

Answer 2

I had a similar problem when I was backpacking, but you'll find that with a little effort, you'll soon have heaps of friends.

First, you have to realise that (just like when you're backpacking) most people in your dorm have come there on their own. They need company just as bad as you do. Just say hi to people: you'll find them usually quite receptive.

Make small talk. If you're living in the same dorm as them, you have something in common. Ask a dumb question just to raise conversation even if you know the answer. How do I use the tumble drier? When is the cafeteria open till? Once you've shared even one or two sentences, you can say "hey" to that person when you pass them in the hall, and your relationship will grow. If you share a room, you'll have more to talk about. Dont be afraid to say: "we share a room but I know nothing about you! What do you study? What kid of music do you like..."

Be receptive to other people. If someone talks to you, smile and give them a proper conversation. If someone says "we're having a few beers, wanna come?" always go (if you dont drink beer, take some coke and a packet of chips).

Most importantly: if people are nasty, that's their problem, not yours. Forget them. And nobody is shy "by nature": that's something that you learned, just like I did. You're in a new environment now, so push your boundaries, and be a little bit wild. Thats what being at uni is about. Have fun!

Answer 3

I'd go with answer 2, being shy is very difficult and blushing easily doesn't help... which I suffer from, then a few years ago, after being teased on a holiday, but some guys who were very friendly and I had know for a couple of years.... they revealed they found it really sexy to make a girl blush! Ok getting to meet people, just take it slow don't appear to keen or desperate, and just try to get know them, first slowly, just smile, say good morning etc, then try noticing hairstyles, jewellery, saying how much you like it... be genuine and ask where they had it done, or brought it, etc, its just a question of developing small talk... helps with practice. Any clubs or interest groups that you could join, you might find people with similar interests always a good way to break the ice

Answer 4

You can go around your dorm knock on peoples' dorms and introduce yourself. Or bake some cookies, cupcakes. etc., and put up a poster that all the people in your dorm are invited to your room for some goodies.

Answer 5

dance around the dorm in your undies while you sing the "itsy bitsy spider" song.

you'll pick out the snooty ones right off.
those who laugh with you will probably be right to make friends with

Answer 6

See if your roommates can introduce you to anyone. If you live in a single however - maybe see if they have study groups that you can come to and meet people. It won't be akward.