Many students are still new at school. Even after months, some haven’t been able to blend in smoothly with everyone. For those about to finish their SSC, another new institution awaits just around the corner.
Face the Fear
For students who are introverted or shy, stepping into a new school or college can be intimidating. It’s not the classrooms, walls, or trees that cause fear—it’s the new people and new teachers. The number one formula to overcome this fear is to face it head-on. Approach students who seem a bit distant on your first day. Smile, ask them something, or even invite them to share a snack. You’ll see that fear disappears in a day, and you might even gain bold, interesting friends. Don’t rush to stick only with silent or familiar-looking peers at the start.
Fail Fast, Switch Faster
Once you join school or college, you’ll encounter numerous clubs: debate, football, science, photography, and more. Initially, you might feel pressured to join all of them due to peer influence or personal enthusiasm. But if you realize something isn’t working out, move on quickly. If debating feels frustrating or unenjoyable, try sports instead. Maybe swimming isn’t your thing, but you shine in photography. Don’t waste too much time forcing yourself into one track—explore and adapt quickly.
Stay Close to Good Friends
You’ll naturally make good friends. But don’t assume that a single meeting means you can disappear for days. Balance time between studies, family, and friends. Gradually try to integrate into their families too. Invite them over. Expanding strong, healthy relationships not only enriches your social life but also benefits your studies and future career.
Start Something New Early
Alongside regular classes, identify other areas of interest and plan extra courses or activities. Make sure this doesn’t strain your main studies. Focus on what you already understand well and can handle independently—no need to overburden yourself with external help. Use your extra energy for photography, technical projects, or art courses. Remember, each day is equally important when learning something new.
Step Outside
Being cooped up in school or study rooms all day isn’t healthy. To break an introverted mindset, you need to get out. You don’t need to attend parties randomly; just go for short trips with trusted friends, explore the city or village, and carry a notebook to jot down interesting observations. This can be a fun and educational experience.
Stay Inside Too
Now, do the opposite. Nature loves balance, and so should you. Don’t spend every day only exploring the outside world. Sometimes lock yourself in, dive into a good book or a movie, and relax. This mental downtime is a great remedy to ease campus anxiety and overcome the fear of a new school.