We are living in a world made for extroverts. With the rise of networking, it seems like the only way to get a job is if you’re good at schmoozing. Even college admissions offices are always on the lookout for “leaders” - whatever that is. It seems like the introvert is being forced to go the way of the dodo.

There are definite difficulties when it comes to being an introvert in college. Orientation week was the most overwhelming experience of my life and I almost cried in the middle of an ice cream social because I did not want to make any more small talk. I have taken to scheduling my classes so that I can eat lunch during off-peak hours to avoid the massive crowds. On the weekends I choose to stay in, I hear the sound of people pre-gaming in my hall and I feel as if there’s something wrong with me for needing to spend some time by myself and recharge. There are definite drawbacks to introversion but, while I envy extroverts for the ease with which they navigate parties, there are significant benefits to being an introvert.

The biggest advantage is being able to notice things - and I don’t mean just the cute baby bunnies playing in front of my dorm. Introverts are able to pick up on people’s social cues better and notice when someone isn’t feeling the best. Because we don’t speak a lot, that means we’re also great at listening. (Another benefit is that most people assume introverts are automatically good at listening, so even when I zone out during a conversation, I get praised for my listening skills.)

Being an introvert means that making friends and meeting people is hard, but once I get past the initial awkward stage, I value the friends I have so much more. My squad may not fill up an entire table in the dining hall, but they’ve been through thick and thin with me and I appreciate them. Being an introvert means I am able to focus more on making deeper connections with the people I do choose to get to know better.

Introversion has helped me to get to know other people on a higher level, but it has also helped me get to know myself. I do get the occasional bouts of FOMO, but I am able to have fun by myself on a weekend with a good book. I’ve also gotten more in tune to what I need to be mentally and physically healthy, such as knowing when I have to cut out of a party or skip a social event because it’s too draining. I’m also able to enjoy my own company more. If I see a cool event advertised on campus, I don’t waste time trying to coordinate plans in the group chat, I go even if nobody wants to go with me.

I have no problem picking up and walking around town on Saturday morning or going to see a student show by myself. I think the fact that I’m comfortable being by myself has made me do so many things that I would have missed out on otherwise. Some people are self-conscious about going somewhere by themselves or eating a meal alone, but I appreciate the quiet time. It makes me more independent when I do not have to wait for other people’s plans to line up with my schedule to do something.