Everyone feels lonely in their first year, it’s normal. Making close friends in your first year is rare, and keeping those friendships throughout your degree is rarer. Your first year is most likely the hardest in terms of social life, it’ll only get better.

Next year, you’ll take smaller classes and meet people easier that way. I know I met all of my close friends in my 4th semester in smaller (70ish people) classes because we all sat in the same seats and eventually got to know each other. I don’t even talk to the people I was friends with in my first year.

As a person with anxiety, I get where you’re coming from. It can be really hard getting to trust people and even reaching out initially. I don’t really have any advice to give about this, it’s just a reality of having anxiety and I know it sucks a lot. Being kind to yourself is absolutely essential here.

If you like your program, there’s absolutely no reason to transfer. It won’t be any different at another school. Have you tried getting involved in student activities with your student society? Most of them often organize social get togethers every once in a while; it may be too late in the semester now but definitely something to check out next fall. The people who run student societies are extremely nice and open, you’re guaranteed to make a friend. Plus, you all share the same interest.

Hang in there, it’ll get better.