Nervousness can be our friend!! It is the body’s way of saying, “hey! pay attention to me!” Even trained athletes will get nervous before a competition – the difference between the competing athlete and a beginning athlete is that the trained competitor knows to use his anxiety as a focus tool, paying attention to his goals and every movement of his body to navigate his course.

I think it says a lot about your character and willingness to “jump right into the swing of things” that you’re trying to prepare yourself for the college experience. Don’t think that because your previous course didn’t go as well as you would’ve liked that you’re doomed in all future college things. Use your experience as a lesson – why did you become part of the quiet group? Did you let your anxiety overwhelm you? Did you not “put yourself out there”? Don’t waste time worrying about the “What ifs.” Instead, spend time preparing yourself to achieve your goals – so you’re afraid you won’t make friends, what are ways that you can put yourself in a position to make friends?

I would suggest taking up meditation now before you start school and to continue it throughout your life. Meditation can help us become comfortable in our own skin, as well as be a powerful stress reliever.

Namaste!