Are you by any chance going to a big school in North Carolina? I'm wondering, since I live there, too. I'm sorry you're getting off to a rough start. It sounds like your friends are trying to cut their ties from their past.

I don't know you well enough to say if you might be actually doing something to alienate folks, but I'm assuming you're not. I have several suggestions: 1) Seek out a counselor on campus. This person will have heard stories like yours before. Alas, some of what you describe is very common in college. He/she can be a sounding board and also will be able to offer some suggestions; 2) Look for other clubs and organizations to get involved with. That way YOU can meet some of the other 50,000 folks there, including lots of freshmen, many who are likely having some of your same experiences; 3) Do call your mom and dad, maybe once a week. They will be glad to hear from you. Homesickness is extremely common at first; 4) Don't give up. Things will get better. If you are struggling in class, then meet with your advisor/professors. It's understandable that you're having trouble getting your act together right now, since you are upset; 5) If you still hate your school by the end of the first year, then you CAN always check into transferring, perhaps to a smaller school. Okay?

I'm glad you're reaching out. BTW, I was a college professor for many years before going on disability.....