The Introvert Student's Guide in Surviving the Term
You're an introvert, and you're not too worried about college. You read "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" a number of times, and you won't mind reading your favorite quotes if something would overwhelm you. However, Stephen Chbosky's bestseller is not THE Bible for introvert teenagers like you. You must plant your feet on the ground firmly. And you should learn to adapt to a new environment that is the university,
You may not be the party-type of individual, but it's hard to pass up the invitations. You would go to a party sooner or later. The thought didn't make you uncomfortable, as you can look at your mobile phone whenever you didn't fancy the music being played on. Moreover, you don't feel pressured to drink alcoholic beverages. You have made a promise to your parents that you won't get drunk. (You dread someone taking a picture of your passed-out self and making public in social media the following day.) Your options are dwindling, which didn't alarm you at all. You can count on Netflix (or YouTube). You wouldn’t mind reading one more paperback, which is not included in your reading list. You can also hit the gym if sitting makes you lethargic for your next assignment. A fellow introvert would approve such actions, but you're letting a good opportunity go to waste.
If you haven't traveled much, then the thought of getting out of your comfort zone may revolt you. No one is telling you to make a drastic change in your routine, though. As a matter of fact, these new experiences could be good for you. (If you're a Literature student, then these new experiences can give you a new perspective. It should help you in writing better.) You'll never know what would be in store for you (if you won't do something that you haven't tried before). You might end up less of an introvert and a bit of an extrovert, which can be good to you.
How to Handle an Uncomfortable Situation
What if you don't like the music? You can pretend not to hear it, while you scroll down the latest pictures that are uploaded on Instagram. You can also scan the room and figure out whom you want to talk about the final episode of "American Idol" and/or "The Voice". Hip hop music might be playing, and you're not a huge fan of it. On the other hand, you notice a few teens who like ambient music. You're not familiar with the likes of Brian Eno, though. (You've been listening to pop music for too long.) Hang around for a bit longer, and try to enjoy the atmosphere. If you really can't stand it, then you can go out for some fresh air. Someone might do the same thing. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself and start a conversation.
What if you don't like to drink? You have made a promise to your folks, yet you can't say it to the other students who are looking at you. They happen to be the ones you frequently meet in the hall, so walking away won't be an option. Compromising won't hurt at all; one or two cans of beer should be enough. If you have that urge to drink one more, then do your best to be on guard. If you feel anything, if not think incoherently, then you should know what to do next. Think of a good alibi, if not tell them that the deadline to your assignment would be hours away.
What if you don't like to party? You can get along (and attend one) or invite your friends. You can watch a play (if you're Art students). You can also munch on popcorn while enjoying a blockbuster. (You can't wait to see the Wall of Serpents on the big screen.) You can watch a game on TV. (A replay of an old game would be good as a live one.) There's a huge risk in feigning sickness, if not telling anyone that you're not interested to hang around with other students. You're not a stuck up (unless no one notices it yet).
What if you don't like to talk to other students? You're not obliged to tell anyone about your introvert nature, even defend yourself (whenever you notice a facial expression that bothers you). A smile will get you that far while a polite approach won't let you down. Don't try too hard to please anyone, even show eagerness in making lots of friends. It takes time, and you might not count on them when you need (emotional) support. A short conversation should be good for everyone especially during the last days of spring.
What if you don't like to get off the computer screen? You can experience dizziness, if not information overload. (And it can give you a headache.) It also gives you difficulty in falling asleep (unless you only have a few hours of sleep these last few days). If you have a deadline, then a short break would help you recharge your energy. You will need it when you proofread your paper.
A Short Note to the Stubborn Introverts
It's not a good thing to have it your way. You must learn about flexibility at this stage, as you would need to show more of it later. You don't have to wonder about it, as you need to focus on the present. Get out of your room once in a while. You won't find your best friend if you don't meet other students. Staying connected should keep you from getting affected by the pressure of the coursework.
