Good question.
From what you've said, I can see you're feeling a lot of different things, including depression, sadness, loneliness, and fear. I can also see your self-doubt and remorse. Everyone is different. Some people are keen to socialize and gain energy from it, while others prefer to gain strength from within. However, no matter what kind of personality we have, we all have the need to establish intimate relationships with others, to love and belong.
It can be tough when you feel like you don't really fit in with the dorm group. It can make you feel pretty uncomfortable.
Don't be too hard on yourself. It's tough to fit in with a new group, especially when we're not great at socializing with strangers. What you can do now is accept your personality and realize that you're not integrated into the dorm group. Let your emotions out by talking to others, running, or doing anything else that helps. Then try to open yourself up and actively integrate into the group. Here are some suggestions that might help:
1. Talk to people you know to get a better understanding of your current situation and emotions, and to find ways to build your resilience.
You can talk to friends you know and trust about your concerns and difficulties, ask for their advice and support, allow yourself to feel the care of people close to you, and temporarily escape from sadness and loneliness to release your emotions.
Think back to previous times when you were successful in social situations. Think about what you did and how you felt. Look for your strengths and abilities. Imagine how you would feel if you were successfully integrated into the group.
What would you do in that situation? Put yourself in that situation and try it out.
Take the first step and find a way to gradually improve the situation.
Once you've adjusted your mentality, you can take the first step by observing what they're doing together, what they're talking about, and where they are. You can let them know that you want to do those things with them, even if you don't speak and just quietly participate, to make your presence felt more.
You said you joined the dorm with another former resident. She's already integrated into their group. You can talk to her and start with her. Ask her to take you to their activities.
You can also find out what they're talking about and share your thoughts when it's appropriate. This will help you to gradually become more involved.
3. Accept yourself, build your confidence, and learn some interpersonal skills.
As we said earlier, being an introvert is nothing to be ashamed of. You should focus on your strengths, accept yourself for who you are, and don't overstretch yourself. If there's something you want to improve, you can find the courage to learn and practice more. For instance, you could read books and take courses on interpersonal communication, try to join some school clubs and activities, and get to know more people to slightly expand your social circle.
If the topics discussed or activities planned by the dorm group don't interest you or you don't want to take part, you can simply opt out. Use this time to explore your own interests and build connections with people who share them.
I hope you find more confidence soon and that you'll make friends with people who share your interests.
I hope the original poster gains more confidence and finds like-minded friends soon.


Comments
I can totally relate to how you're feeling. It's really tough when you feel left out in a place where you should feel at home. Sometimes it just takes one small step to change things, maybe starting a conversation about something you all like could help bridge that gap.
It's heartbreaking to feel isolated among your peers. But remember, you're not alone in this. Many people struggle with social integration. Maybe reaching out to someone who seems friendly or sharing a bit about yourself could open doors to new friendships.
Feeling invisible in a group can be incredibly lonely. But don't let this moment define your future. Your personality doesn't have to determine your fate. You have the power to make changes, even small ones, like inviting someone for coffee or joining a club that interests you.
It's so hard when you feel like an outsider in your own dorm. But this situation isn't permanent. Consider talking to a counselor or mentor; they might offer some strategies to improve your social interactions and help you find your place within the group.
You shouldn't have to go through this feeling of isolation. It's important to recognize that it's okay to seek support. Whether it's from a friend outside of the dorm, a family member, or a professional, sometimes talking about what you're going through can lighten the burden and provide clarity on how to move forward.