High school is a challenging time for teens; there are many more people and a lot more going on than in middle school. You might miss your middle school days, when making friends seemed easier. But you probably were just as nervous about making friends when you started middle school as you are now that you are in high school.
Be a Friend
Think about the type of friend that you would love to meet. Would your friend be kind, thoughtful, positive, upbeat, fun, quiet or a little zany? Be yourself, but try to be the kind of friend who would interest you.
Break the Ice
Everyone is nervous to take the first step. You can make friends by walking up to people and saying hello. Introduce yourself and find out about the person, so you can see what you might have in common. Smile and nod at people to let them know you are open to conversation.
Join Clubs and Activities
High schools have a lot clubs and activities. Investigate what's going on at school, and see what matches your interests. Join the chess club, the student newspaper or the drama club. Go out for a sport. Take up a new activity, and learn about it with some new friends. Attend sports and other events at school. Any activity can be a place to meet new friends.
Attend Orientation Events
High schools often hold orientation events for incoming freshmen. Attend orientation so you can meet some other students and feel better about being able to find your way around. Understanding how the new school works takes some of the pressure off, and you might meet new friends at orientation.
Work for a Cause
If your school does not have a student volunteer group or a service requirement, start one. Choose a social issue, like hunger or tutoring, and get other students to join with in making a difference in your community.
Volunteer for the School
Sign up to help out at school. Schools sometimes need students to help out in the office, the library or at special events. You will meet your fellow volunteers and other students who are potential friends.
Know Yourself and Your Friends
Sometimes you meet people, and things don't work out so well. Making good friends requires that you know yourself--what you like, what you are think, the kind of person you want to be now and as an adult--and that you don't waver in your beliefs just to be popular. If you don't compromise who you are, you can make real friends and have lasting friendships.
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