The tendency to separate one’s self from the presence of others and enjoy it might seem weird to some, but it’s comfortable to people known as introverts.
Alexandra Grese, a fourth-year English major, has an introverted personality type, according to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, and wanted to provide similar students a chance to congregate without the pressure of a traditional meeting setting.
Introverts of OSU is a community designed to give students of a more timid nature a chance to indirectly socialize with peers.
“It’s an organization where introverted people can be alone together, the same way people in a cafe or library are all in one place doing their own thing,” Grese said.
Two months ago, Grese made a Facebook page to create a following. As of Wednesday afternoon, 29 people have “liked” the Introverts of OSU page.
“Every few weeks or so, I’ve been posting advertisements on the Facebook page letting people know that if they’d like to do individual activities alone in a group, I’ll be at this location at this time,” Grese said. “So far, in typical introvert style, no one has shown up, but with the Facebook following growing, I intend to keep trying.”
Grese’s most recent post on the page reads, “The first rule of introvert club is you do not have to talk at introvert club.”
Five individuals active on the Facebook page were contacted for comments, but no replies were received.
Ally Himes, coordinator of Student Involvement, encourages students to get involved in an organization during their college careers.
“No matter the specific focus, students report their involvement helps build skills like time management and leadership, and offers a unique social opportunity to create close relationships,” Himes said.
Himes said she believes that both direct and indirect socialization can help a student grow, but encourages students to step outside their comfort zones.
“Don’t be afraid to lean into discomfort,” Himes said. “Not all situations will be appealing, but leaning into discomfort can help us grow and learn to adapt to new types of situations.”
OSU offers more than 1,200 student organizations that cater to the diversity of the students. At the moment, Introverts of OSU is not an official student organization.
“Whether someone is more introverted or extroverted, it is beneficial for all individuals to be in situations that build upon both strengths and weaknesses so that we can continue to develop as humans,” Himes said.
Grese encourages anyone looking for an introverted community setting to like the Introverts of OSU Facebook page.
