I need to learn how to be pro-active.
You already know what to do
. Some other things to consider:
1) Be yourself! Pretending to be someone you're not won't be doing yourself any favors in the long run. People appreciate genuineness. Med school tends to be the time when most people mature and stop caring so much about others' opinion. At the end of the day, you want to meet people who like you for who you are, and not who you are trying to be.
2) Be curious: While it is tempting to start studying 24/7 for anatomy the first week, make time to know where other people are from and what their interests are. To state the obvious, first impressions are everything.
3) Be positive: People are more likely to want to know you if you're always friendly and not complaining. Also, nothing smells friendship like helping a stranger remove adipose tissue and fascia in the evenings.
4) Avoid drama: It's toxic--don't contribute to the conversation when people talk behind other people's back.
5) Be open: Resist the urge to say 'no' when someone invites you to an event, especially early on. For each 'no' that you give, make an effort to go out to another social event. If there aren't social events that suit your personality, try organizing one yourself. The great thing about med school is that there are plenty of introverts and extroverts.
6) Be patient: The best friendships may not happen overnight, so be patient.
7) Be realistic: Realize that you can't be everyone's friend and don't force yourself to be. And be wary of people who may abuse your kindness.
