ArcaMax

First of all, you can make friends. You report that you have one close friend, and others you describe as "friends" from high school.

So, you actually have a track record of making friends.

You may think that the norm is to have more than one very close friend, but I don't think that's quite accurate. Many people have only one best friend -- and one close and intimate friend is all most of us need. Your relationships will probably always fall into concentric rings, with very few people sharing the center with you.

Secondly, you need to realize that you are surrounded by people who are feeling just as you are now. The first month of college is socially more challenging and frightening than the first day of kindergarten.

And, just like in kindergarten, you are feeling anxious, awkward and isolated. This is a time to be very gentle with yourself as you tiptoe toward and away from relationships.

As classes start, a routine will emerge. You will be more occupied with your studies. You will gradually get to know others in your classes, cafeteria, library and dorm. You will also have the opportunity to join clubs and activities. Staying busy will help you to weather this awkwardness, and will put you in proximity to others without the pressure to be purely social.

Don't put too much pressure on yourself to behave as you see others behaving. Share your feelings and frustrations with your bestie from home; she might be feeling the same way.

If you find yourself feeling depressed, worried or too isolated, visit the campus health center and ask to speak with a counselor.

Dear Amy: How do I tell the man in my life that his huge muffin top is a turn off for me? He is more than plump, Amy, he is obese.

He blames his diabetes on the fact that he cannot satisfy me sexually, but I maintain that it is his obesity that is the reason he has diabetes.

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