For me, college meant starting fresh: new school, new people, a new side of the country. I left everything I knew behind and I started over. When you can count the number of familiar faces you see, on one hand, a number of new people approaching you can become overwhelming.

The first week of school, I met a ton of interesting people that I thought would stick around. Truth is, I haven't seen most of them since.

The second week of school, while there was slightly less pressure to make new friends, I still noticed people trying to force friendships- starting a conversation over a meal or in the middle of laundry. Nothing about those interactions felt natural.

By the third week of school, I joined more organizations, met people through common interests, and started making plans with the people I truly wanted to spend time with.

Many, like myself, struggle with understanding when someone is a "true" friend, or if they are just popping in for their own benefit. This is an important quality to spot, and by now I'm confident to share the ways I know if I've found a true friend.

1. They motivate you to be better.

2. They don't ever jeopardize your success for personal gain.

3. They are there for you when you need them.

4. You can be yourself around them.

5. You can really trust them.

6. You go to them with big news, and they go to you with big news.

7. They will be there to listen, whether it's about your dinner or love life.

8. You enjoy their company, and they enjoy yours.

9. You're not trying to pull all the weight when it comes to making plans.

10. They know how to make you smile.