Meeting New People at Middle School

Going to a new school can be stressful.
Stressful things:

• Making friends
  
• Using buses
  
• Using a locker combination
  
• Meeting new teachers
  
• Finding your way around

Remember, when you're meeting new people, ask questions about them and listen. You may find you have lots in common. If you don't, ask more questions about what they're interested in! Being a good friend means being a good listener.

Questions you can ask (just some ideas):

• Do you have brothers and sisters? Do they go to school here? How old are they? What are their names?
  
• Is this your first year here, too? How long have you gone to school here?
  
• What sports do you like to do? What's your favorite sport to watch (on TV or live)?
  
• What did you do over the summer?
  
• Do you have any pets? How long have you had it/them? How big are they? What are their names?
  
• What's your favorite food? Why? Do you know how to make it? What's your favorite restaurant? What do you like to eat there?

Remember to keep asking if there is only a one-word answer to your question -- a one-word answer won't start a conversation.

It is normal to feel shy around people that you do not know. Just be yourself and you'll be sure to meet people who like you for who you are. Listen and feel comfortable talking to other people and going to a new school will not be such a hard adjustment.