Written by Devin Miller, Relate Contributing Writer

One of your best friends invited you to a party that one of her classmates is throwing. Although you don’t know the host, your friend got permission for you to tag along. We’ve all been put into this situation and know how it feels to enter a room and see not one familiar face.

Being the girl no one knows at a party can be intimidating if you don’t know how to mingle and work the crowd. Instead of being a boring wall flower, learn how to stand out, meet new people and have a blast.

Before arriving at the event…

1) Find out the general dress code for the party from your friend, and then pick out an outfit that you feel comfortable and confident in. Wear your favorite color shirt that brings out your eyes or the necklace that you always seem to get compliments on. If you want to take a little bit of a risk, wear something that’s unique that will make you stand out or that would make a great conversation starter.

2) Ask your friend questions about the people that will be at the party. Getting some background info will make the adventure a little less of a mystery. Also, it can help you come up with ice breakers later.

During…

1) The most important things to remember: be yourself, be relaxed, and be sure to smile. By keeping those in mind, you will automatically look more approachable.

2) Body language is key. Along with that smile, make sure to hold your arms naturally by your side. Sitting or standing with your arms crossed can make you seem guarded or disinterested in meeting new people.

3) Pay attention when you are introduced to someone. Countless times we are given someone’s name and forget it only a mere five seconds later. When you are introduced to someone, give them a nice firm handshake, and then repeat his or her name back to yourself. This technique will help you to remember other guests’ names throughout the night.

4) Be a conversation queen. Casually ask people questions about themselves without sounding like you’re interrogating them. Truth is, everyone loves the sound of their own voice. While talking to someone, try to find a common ground. If both of you love skiing, this is a great way to keep the conversation rolling.

5) Genuine compliments go a long way. If you love the earrings someone has on, tell them! Everyone loves the feeling of getting complimented because it naturally boosts confidence. Telling others they look good will show them that you are secure in your own skin, and aren’t trying to act stuck-up around people you don’t know.

After…

1) Thank the host of the party. Anyone who has been the host of an event knows just how much work can go into it. By saying how much fun you had, the host will feel reassured that his or her party was a success.

2) Keep in touch with the people you really connected with at the party. Fortunately due to technology, there are many ways to do this, from Facebook to texting. Staying in touch is one of the best ways to show that you care about building a friendship.

So, next time you’re invited to a place where you may not know anyone, don’t come up with a lame excuse in fear that you may feel uncomfortable! Embrace the opportunity to have a change of scenery while meeting new people. Before you know it, you will be a social butterfly!

Tags: college interaction, college party, make friends, meeting new people, new party scene, social butterfuly, socializing