How to make friends / meet people?

22 / F

hi! so i’m a little shy, which makes me nervous about dating but i’d like to get back into the dating scene - or even just make some new friends! i suppose i’m just wondering how everyone goes about meeting people, in a genuine sense - not into hookup culture!

also any advice on ideas for first dates, approaching beginning conversations, and confidence would be very appreciated, i haven’t been on many and i get super nervous!