Download ArticleDownload ArticleThis article was co-authored by Rebecca Tenzer, MAT, MA, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, CCATP, CCFP and by How.com.vn staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD. Rebecca Tenzer is the owner and head clinician at Astute Counseling Services, a private counseling practice in Chicago, Illinois. With over 18 years of clinical and educational experience in the field of mental health, Rebecca specializes in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, grief, interpersonal relationships using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, and other evidence-based practices. Rebecca holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sociology and Anthropology from DePauw University, a Master in Teaching (MAT) from Dominican University, and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Chicago. Rebecca has served as a member of the AmeriCorps and is also a Professor of Psychology at the collegiate level. Rebecca is trained as a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT), a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS), a Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), and a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional (CCFP). Rebecca is also a member of the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Society of America and The National Association of Social Workers.
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Are you enrolling at a new school? Being a new student can feel pretty nerve-wracking at first, but you have nothing to fear. There are tons of different ways to connect with your classmates, from joining groups and extracurriculars to striking up a convo in class or the cafeteria. We’ve compiled the best tips and suggestions from therapists, teachers, and school counselors to help you make new friends at school.
Easy Ways to Make Friends
- Hold your head up and project confidence so that you seem approachable and friendly.
- Ask open-ended questions to start a conversation, then really listen to what people have to say.
- Make connections at school events or by joining clubs or activities.
Steps
Expert Q&A
- QuestionHow do you help a socially awkward child?
Ashley Pritchard, MAAshley Pritchard is an Academic and School Counselor at Delaware Valley Regional High School in Frenchtown, New Jersey. Ashley has over 3 years of high school, college, and career counseling experience. She has an MA in School Counseling with a specialization in Mental Health from Caldwell University and is certified as an Independent Education Consultant through the University of California, Irvine.
School CounselorSome schools have a peer leader program, where other students may help the child get to classes or introduce you to other people. Also, talk to teachers or the school counselor to help connect the child with other students. - QuestionI was going to start a conversation, but I got nervous, and didn't know what to say. What are some good conversation starters?
How.com.vn Staff EditorThis answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Staff AnswerHow.com.vn Staff EditorStaff AnswerAsk some open-ended questions! These are questions that require a long response, and not just a “yes” or “no” answer. You might ask something like, “What did you do over the weekend?” or “What’s your favorite class?” - QuestionI’m going to a new school next year in 6th grade, and I’m nervous. I have only known my friends that I have now since kindergarten, back when I was not shy. What should I do?How.com.vn Staff EditorThis answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Staff AnswerHow.com.vn Staff EditorStaff AnswerIt’s okay to be nervous! Focus on putting yourself out there, little by little. This can be something as simple as complimenting someone on their shirt, or asking if you can sit with someone at lunch. Joining clubs and sports teams is another great way to meet new people.
Reader Videos
Tips
- Have patience! Clinical therapist Rebecca Tenzer encourages you to "remember that making friends is a gradual process and it's normal to encounter some challenges along the way. Be patient, persistent, and open to new opportunities, and you'll increase your chances of meeting friends who enrich your life."Thanks
Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about making friends, check out our in-depth interview with Rebecca Tenzer, MAT, MA, LCSW, CCTP, CGCS, CCATP, CCFP.
References
- ↑ https://www.kidscape.org.uk/advice/advice-for-young-people/friendships-and-frenemies/how-to-make-new-friends/
- ↑ https://findmykids.org/blog/en/how-to-make-friends-at-school
- ↑ https://blog.icesusa.org/the-exchange-students-guide-to-making-friends
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/making-good-friends.htm
- ↑ https://findmykids.org/blog/en/how-to-make-friends-at-school
- ↑ https://www.kidscape.org.uk/advice/advice-for-young-people/friendships-and-frenemies/how-to-make-new-friends/
- ↑ https://findmykids.org/blog/en/how-to-make-friends-at-school
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/play-your-way-sane/202303/7-research-backed-benefits-of-improv-comedy
- ↑ https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/self-esteem
About This Article
To make friends at a new school, act approachable in the hallways by smiling and making eye contact with other students. You could also try joining an after school club or sports activity to meet people with likeminded interests. Additionally, when you’re in class, try to sit in the middle as you’ll be noticed more there, which could result in more people talking to you. If you see someone nearby at the lockers or water fountain, try striking up a conversation by asking a question and briefly introducing yourself. To learn more ways to make friends, like how to ask questions that show people you're interested in them, keep reading!
Reader Success Stories
"It was the tips and the steps that helped most. Like, I use to let everyone change me that's why I did not have any friends. This also helps me for this year to be myself, and if they don't like me the way I am then they're not my real friends."..." more
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