When should she tell guys that she's a virgin?

DEAR ABBY: I am a 20-year-old college student who is a virgin.

I think this is the time to date people and get a better understanding of who I am and what I like in men. When I tell guys I'm a virgin, they don't want to talk to me anymore. When is the best time to bring it up, and how do I do that in conversation?

- Diamond in the East

DEAR DIAMOND: You may be jumping the gun and announcing your status prematurely. The subject of one's virginity - or lack thereof - is relevant at the time when there's a reason to anticipate there will be intimacy in a couple's relationship.

DEAR ABBY: I'll be 30 soon. My friends and I have drifted apart because we're all in different stages of our lives. Some of us still frequent the bar scene, others have gotten married or dropped off the radar.

My closest friend is so wrapped up in "mommy blogs" and all things "baby" that she's no longer able to discuss much else. I don't have children, and I'm tired of going to bars. I'm in a happy, committed relationship, but neither of us wants to focus on marriage for a few years. How do people connect with others at this stage of the game?

- Friendless in New Jersey

DEAR FRIENDLESS: One way is to expand your interests. You and your boyfriend should join groups and meet people with whom you'll have some things in common. If you're interested in politics, the next two years should give you plenty of opportunity to meet new people. Volunteering is another way to expand your circle of acquaintances.

While you won't make dear friends overnight - friendships usually take a while to grow - the more people you meet, the greater your chances will be of developing meaningful relationships.