To me it sounds like you arent the type of person who takes much away from shallow or casual interactions. You much prefer deeper meaningful connections? You probably do this, because you know the type of person you are, what you’re capable of giving, and its generally a lot of time, effort and consideration for the people you consider close to you. However, you simply are not going to show this side of yourself to any person fresh off the street, without putting them through the test, to show they deserve you in their life. As much as you may want them in yours. Did I get anywhere close?

I suppose the best thing I could give that remotely lives in the neighborhood of advice would be, simply do not expect much out of people. However don’t allow yourself to become embittered because you feel you can rely on no one. I’ll assume that since you’re going back to college? the people/classmates are much younger than you. “flaky, selfish” and generally shallow seems to be the mold they are cutting people from these days. Not to say EVERYONE, but the majority of the ones that lay on the surface generally all shares these qualities. I would also suggest taking a little responsibility for your predicament and using the resources available to you due to the nature of your academic affiliations to seek out some people who may be more suited for friendship. Adult student groups? getting involved in a volunteer project? civic organizations such a united way, kiwanis. I generally find if you involve yourself in things that require people to commit their time and effort to something and give of themselves. These are the type of people you might click with.

Best of luck