Hey there, I don’t think I’m qualified to give advice given I’m 33 and feel pretty alone these days also... but if I was you I’d really try to join clubs or activities that you’re passionate about. They have engineering clubs that might be great.

Also, don’t worry about how your mom is and what you should be. I was considered very attractive (at least face n height wise - asked to model by agencies) in my 20s and looks shouldn’t be the only thing you value. You need to find something you love about yourself...true confidence is all you need. But yeah you will have to work a bit harder in engaging people than your mom. Just remember she s had a lot more time to build her emotional and social intelligence.