<p>Are you looking to find other people who are accepting of social awkwardness? Or are you trying to become more outgoing? Either is OK - it’s all about what direction you’d like to go.</p>
<p>But universities which are good for the former aren’t necessarily good for the latter, and vice versa. In particular, some universities may have subgroups (e.g., social circles, majors, residence halls, or activities) which tolerate socially awkward students even as the wider campus culture caters to the socially skilled and/or those who fit a narrow mold.</p>
<p>Also, consider that what you want may change over the four or so years that you attend university. It’s good to be in an environment which is flexible enough to accommodate any direction you might like to go in the future.</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>Unfortunately, there aren’t many universities or other places like this in general. People usually won’t bend over backwards to reach out to someone just because they’re shy. You’ll probably need to make some effort, even if it’s to reciprocate when someone is friendly toward you.</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>It’s not asking too much. Unfortunately, there are universities where students tend to be extremely cliquish, superficial or both. You need to look closely to make sure the university you’re interested in doesn’t have such problems.</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>On the average, I agree with this. However, large schools can be cliquish too. Contrary to Adenine’s suggestion, large schools also tend to require proactively building a social circle for yourself, something which might be difficult for someone who is socially awkward. I think it’s better to look closely at the culture of individual schools rather than categorically looking at one type of school (e.g., only large schools.) “Closely” is emphasized because if a school is unwelcoming, this fact won’t usually be immediately obvious.</p>
<p>
</p>
<p>Harder, but still quite possible. Notably, some large schools are dominated by their Greek system. I’d recommend avoiding any such schools.</p>
<p>That said, I agree with your ideas on how to improve social skills.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>