In my hometown, a local coffee shop generously asks, “Would you like a chocolate covered espresso bean?” with every order. It doesn’t matter how busy they are, how rude the customer may be, or how early in the morning it is. They always ask if you would like a little free bean. A simple, innocent offering in an otherwise stiff and sore world. Naturally, I always kindly accept their offer. I finish my sweet, sugary latte with a crunchy treat. So far, no one in New York City has offered me a free chocolate covered espresso bean. 

For the past few days, I have been greeted with fake smiles and loose handshakes. Tired and dissatisfied eyes strain to stay focused as my peers try to remember my name. Starting college has been strange. I’m not enthusiastic enough to pretend like I like everybody, but I’m also not secure enough to accept my fate of riding solo.  I truly want to make friends, but I don’t want to make fake friends. I’m sure everyone at my school feels the same way, but it’s hard to remember that when I’m the only person in my dining hall eating alone. I just need to be patient. I know myself well enough to not settle for fake smiles and weak introductions. I guess all I really want is for someone to offer me a chocolate covered espresso bean. Is that too much to ask?