I used to be extroverted, I swear!

I think engineering has really screwed with me psychologically. After graduating high school I felt unstopable. I was brimming with self-confidence (but I wasn't cocky) and I could walk up and talk to a total stranger without a problem. Now I'm exactly the opposite. I'm introverted and I rarely speak unless spoken to. I've lost the confidence I had back then, even though I've accomplished a lot in the past five years. I don't know where it all started to go wrong for me, but I'm trying to make a comeback.

I've made attempts to put myself into so called "social" situations. Well actually all I've done is gone to the community pool a few times hoping to meet someone and make friends so I'm not so damn lonely all the time, but hardly anyone my age is there and they are usually with friends of their own. People have suggested other things to me like going to the gym, but I abhor working out when others can watch me (I don't know why). Bars, parties, etc. are no good for me either, because I don't like those environments. I'm starting to feel so desperate I should paint a sign that says "Help! I need friends." and walk around campus or something with it. I've never been one to make friends quickly with others, but I've almost been in Austin a year now and its starting to get ridiculous. *sigh* Well I just felt like whining a bit today I guess. If you have any good ideas for me to get out of this rut, I'm all ears. :P