What it can feel like
Feeling lonely in a crowd of people who seem to have friend groups already, drifting from hometown friends, roommate tension, or a relationship straining across distance.
Why it happens
You are rebuilding your entire support network at once, often far from home, while everyone else looks settled online. That is genuinely a lot — not a sign something is wrong with you.
What can help
Clubs, orgs, and campus events are the fastest way to real connection. Counseling centers help with relationship and roommate stress. It usually takes a semester or two to find your people — keep showing up.