Move in day and Welcome Week are a whirlwind for most college freshmen. You go through the process of leaving your hometown, leaving your family, living with a stranger, and being in a new place all in one day. Although this is difficult for everyone, it is especially difficult for introverts. It may be hard at first, but adjusting to college life will happen.

1. The First Day Is The Hardest

Move-in day is a huge mixture of nerves and excitement. You really have no idea what to feel. It is an exhausting day where upper class-men greet you with loud and obnoxious cheering and everyone is excited and trying to make you feel welcome. We all know they do this out of the goodness of their hearts, but as introverts, all of this noise and chaos is overwhelming. Don't worry. I promise, if you just get through the first night of craziness, everyone will be tired the next day and everything will calm down.

2. Branch Out

It is difficult for us introverts to step out of our comfort zones, especially when it comes to socializing. But this is such a pivotal part of Welcome Week. First impressions are everything and if you make a bad first impression (even though you don't mean to) it will most likely stick for awhile. If you see someone walking, take a risk and say hi. The worst they could do is either not hear you or ignore you. Ask people about their lives and actually listen. It is rare for people to actually listen to each other these days. Most importantly, keep your door open! This lets people know you are welcoming visitors and want to make friends just like everyone else.

3. Get Through The Small Talk

I know, I know. Small talk is pretty much the death of introverts, but it has to happen. This is the only way you will get to know people. Try to look for clues into what the person may like and ask them questions about it. For example, if the person you are talking to is wearing a Harry Potter t-shirt, ask them what their favorite book/movie is.

4. It's Ok To Take Breaks

Socializing is exhausting for introverts. It takes everything out of us and drains us for awhile. So just like your cell phone, go and recharge! It is totally fine for you to take a break and just hang out in your room for awhile. It will be much easier to socialize again after you are rested and your energy has been restored.

5. Connections Will Happen

Give it time and you will make some amazing friendships.