My AP psychology teacher was a crazy man who taught me a few of the most enlightening lessons of my entire life. There was one time, specifically, when something he said resonated with me. He explained how extroverts are people who get their energy by socializing, while introverts recharge by spending time alone.

I remember listening to that and feeling it click within me. It was simple, but I felt like I understood myself a little bit better. Christofer Drew summarized the struggle I've faced in one too many social situations: "Yeah, I have friends, but they have friends, and they have parties, and I'm so awkward."

College is a very social experience. You go to class with people, do homework with people, go to meals with people. You have a roommate and floor-mates. You share the bathroom with at least 15 other girls or guys. There are parties where, truth be told, even the most outgoing extrovert probably tires of being pressed into four other people at any given moment.

For an introvert, the social side of college can be daunting. I think a common misconception about introverts is that they don't like people. I love people. I love talking to people, but I hate small talk. I'd rather call my best friend from home than talk about my schedule for next semester with someone. College is rough because there are very few breaks between socializing for introverts to recharge.

There is the constant struggle between the fear of missing out but also wanting to stay in a nice, cozy bed and watch "Say Yes to the Dress." When you do go out, it's fun for the first half hour, but then you're feeling like everyone else is having a better time than you are. You can only socialize for so long before you feel like a fish out of water. No matter how enticing the dry land is, it's simply not for you.

Being an introvert doesn't have to be a bad thing. It's good to know how to do things by yourself. Life is easier when you can grab lunch after class without having to deal with a mess of choppy plans in a group chat every day. Still, it's equally important to find people who can support you. Everyone needs somebody at some point in their lives, and you're likely to find some of your best friends in college.

There's no clear-cut solution to socializing in college. It's a careful game of figuring out what works for you. Join clubs that interest you; maybe there's one that lets you be alone in a group environment, like a

writing club. Make use of opportunities to meet new people but don't force yourself. All good things come in time. Until then, no one will judge you for taking a night in to watch "10 Things I Hate About You," and eat two bags of kettle corn.