If you are reading this, know that you are more than your network.
Ever since coming to SMU, the rudimentary lesson I have learned is that making friends in college is hard. Especially a college full of people with money and status, I am constantly presented with the question of who is being sincere and who is acting. Evidently, I am not good at telling who is acting. In the past 3 months, I have been blown off, kicked to the curb, and left out more times than not. I learned that people hide their intentions for one reason or another.
We all wear a mask for some reason - whether it be to hide insecurities, previous scars, or to protect yourself. But this mask impairs people's ability to judge a person for who they genuinely are. I can’t look at someone and understand if they want to be my friend because of who I am or my network. I understand we are all trying to succeed in life, but befriending someone for who they know, who they have on speed dial, is hardly a way to live. We are not our networks.
I recognize the world is not a utopian candy store. However, our lives should not be limited to the 2000 steps we take to get through our school days and back to our cars.
I have recently learned that there was someone wanting to be my friend who just sat a few seats away from me. I can’t say I will never experience being left out again, but I am choosing to be an optimist. Now, I have someone. It’s a step up from where I was.
If you’re reading this, know that there are people out there who truly want to be your friend. There are other people who have struggled with friendships and finding their people. I know it's cliche, but you are not alone. There is someone looking for a friendship with someone like you - there is someone looking for a friendship with YOU. If you feel like there isn’t a light at the end of the tunnel, light it yourself. Next time you are in class, smile at the person sitting across from you. Casually talk to them - build up that friendship. I believe in you.
If you are reading this, know that you are not alone. There is always a friend nearby.
-Anonymous, Southern Methodist University ‘25
FOLLOW @IFYOUREREADINGTHISATSMU TO STAY UP TO DATE ON NEW LETTERS AND EXCITING UPDATES
AUTHOR CONTACT
This author has opted to allow readers who resonate with their story to contact them. If you would like to speak to the author of this letter about their experience, please use the form below.