Page 5 - ASC Highlights Spring 24-25

5

From Shy to Social:

My University Transformation

If you told first-year me that I’d one day, be an extrovert, I would’ve laughed in disbelief. When I started
university, I was shy, constantly second-guessing myself, and terrified of doing something embarrassing.
The truth is…everyone is. We all have awkward moments. We all mess up. But something I realized along
the way is this: mature people don’t judge you for being human. And the ones who do? They’re not the kind
of people worth impressing, let alone befriending.

One of the biggest turning points for me was letting go of the fear of being “cringe.” University is a place
for growth, not perfection. Once I stopped worrying about how I looked or whether I was saying the right
thing, I found myself opening to real connections. And surprisingly, people responded with kindness often.
Another lesson I learned is that friendship doesn’t have to be built on matching hobbies. You don’t need to
like the same music or have the same routines. What matters is loyalty, trust, and shared principles. Some
of my closest friends today don’t even know my favorite shows or hobbies, but they’ve shown up for me
when I needed it, and I’ve done the same for them. That’s what counts.

What also helped me grow socially was stepping into discomfort on purpose. I signed up for events I’d
normally avoid. I raised my hand even when my heart raced. For instance, every opportunity I had to
volunteer, I felt compelled to find a way into the room, even if I thought I wasn’t supposed to be there. The
harder I pushed myself, the stronger I found myself inside. Confidence is never granted from waiting until
you feel ready: It is earned from just showing up.

Therefore, if you’re shy or feel that your interests are weird or too specific, don’t let that bother you. The
right people will value you for who you are, not what you like. Be curious. Ask questions. Sit next to someone
new. Say hi even if your voice shakes a little. It’s worth it.

University helped me find my voice, not by changing who I am, but by helping me believe that who I am is
enough. And I promise, you are enough too.

Jana Suhail Alabrach (1088919)
Peer Mentor

Abu Dhabi University | ASC Highlights 24-25 Spring 24-25