Navigating the Challenges of Partner's College Friends: Ask Amy's Advice

A reader seeks advice on how to handle feeling like an outsider among their partner's college friends. Despite making efforts to fit in, the reader finds it difficult to engage with the group, as their conversations often involve put-downs and lack genuine interest. The reader feels lonely and worthless in their attempts to gain acceptance and wonders why their partner's friends don't reflect the person they know. The advice given is to not care so much, conserve energy, and set boundaries by either skipping gatherings or attending briefly. The reader is encouraged to focus on changing their own behavior and feelings rather than expecting their partner to change the situation.