[Michelle]

The first year of any new situation is the most difficult. Get through this, and you'll have grown up a lot.

Why are you giving away the responsibility for your social life to your roommate? If you want to meet people, go meet them. If you are too anxious to do so, enroll yourself in some free campus counseling or psychotherapy. If you want to go to class, study and do your homework seriously - what does that have to do with him sitting around all day?

Perhaps knocking on doors is simply too big a step for you at this time. It isn't the only way to talk to people. What about going to places where people have to talk to you, and there is no chance of rejection? For example, the library staff has to help you find books, etc. If you go into the library every day, soon you will have someone to "shoot the breeze" with. Your advisors have to give you advice. You might also try to get involved by first meeting your fellow students on the internet where you are less under pressure.

Also remember that friendship takes time to develop. It is unrealistic to expect a deep relationship and comradery to form after a few minutes of talking. Start slow.

But I most definitely would talk this out with a kind and compassionate therapist. Don't make yourself suffer any longer. Take control by slowly taking the baby steps you need to work through your fears. Good luck