We all know that putting yourself out there and trying to get to know people especially in your teenage and early adult years can create a lot of stress. I often think, 'what if it isn't an organic friendship?' Or 'what if they don't actually like who I am?'

But I've found some interesting ways that I've come to meet people with common interests as myself. Below are some of the ways that I as an individual have come to meet people.

1. Joining student association or any organization. Whenever I chose to go through the interview process at my school for student government, I never imagined the many friendships that would follow. In participating in a student group focused on community service last year, I got to know many other peers that were passionate about being involved in the school functions and the community.

2. Going to school events. The students and faculty at universities work really hard to host events that are targeted towards students needing to meet new people. I encourage students to attend these events even though they may be awkward at first. I find that if I'm feeling awkward in a situation, other students do too.

3. Joining a community group. Community groups come in many forms. Every individual is different, so it may take time to find something that works for you. I found that joining religious groups and group messages that aligned with my beliefs helped me to stay open minded throughout the school year and get different perspectives on certain social or educational issues that were happening around me.

4. Club/intramural sports. This option is certainly not for everyone; however, exercise and teamwork is important to me. I find that exercising puts me in a headspace to be super friendly and outgoing with my teammates which gives me an outlet to introduce myself to others and ask them questions about themselves.

5. GET OUT OF YOUR DORM ROOM OR APARTMENT. So while we may be accustomed to wanting our own space now that parents aren't hovering nearly as much, being trapped in a dorm room all day without interaction is not going to lead to new relationships with fellow students. Even going on a walk is a great way to run into someone you may have otherwise never have met. I meet new people daily on my runs and walks. While I'm not the most outgoing individual, many people I pass are much more outgoing and will go the extra mile to introduce themselves or give me a nice compliment.