How to make friends??

howdy! so we all know summer is ending soon (ugh!) and school is starting! i’m 13, i’m going into 8th grade, but i’m transferring from homeschool to public school.

i was in public school in 6th grade but left because of some things that happened, and went to 7th in homeschool. i’m finally going back because i feel more secure in the idea of being in school.

i want to know, how can i make friends? i have no friends at all as of right now. i do talk to an old friend from 6th grade, and he says he’ll introduce me to his friends, but i want more than just his friends. i want to be able to make some on my own.

(i think i might get along with his girlfriend, he said he’ll also introduce me to her)

also, i know im young, but what about relationships? im a lesbian, and i dont know how to approach that.

im very socially anxious and awkward!

help!!

update!!!

i actually made tons of friends! i have a girlfriend (yaaassss!) and everyone is so nice! i got literally no backlash any time i ever told someone i like girls, and its been great!

yes, yes, theres a little bit of drama about whos friends with who, blah blah, but nothing major!

thanks to those who offered advice!