I’m going to a public school next year for the first time since 6th grade (I’m in 10th now), and I’m really nervous. I go to a charter school with less than a thousand people, and there’s almost triple that at my new school. I have one friend who goes there, but she’s a grade lower than me so I won’t see her as much. I’m going to be all alone. Also, I hardly have any friends right now and I’m really un-social. I don’t know how I’ll be able to make new friends. How can I get used to a bigger school and make some friends?’

-Quiet Chica‘

Hey Quiet Chica,

The best way to survive in a big school is to make a big splash. Now you don’t have to star in your school’s play a la High School Musical and you don’t have to be head cheerleader to get attention. Just be yourself. A big school will take a while to get used to, but don’t give up. Join clubs and other after school activities that interest you. Not only will you meet people who share the same hobbies as you, you’ll already have something in common, too!

Remember, as Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “The only way to have a friend is to be one.” Not bad advice from an dead guy, huh? You won’t make any new friends by standing around and staring at everyone else having fun. You have to get involved! Smile, laugh, ask questions, compliment people and get to know them! Don’t forget to introduce yourself and make an extra effort to remember names.

Most importantly, don’t rush it. We’re still not sure if love at first sight exists, so why should friendship be any different? True friendship takes time and not everyone will become your best friend. But that’s okay, you’ll be just fine.

Lots of love,
L’Oreal