how do i improve at socializing?

i have been a shy kid since day 1. got called a disciplined child when i was in primary school so i thought that's how i should be. however, as i grew up and realized I need to talk to people in order to be friends, it became hard for me to even initiate conversations. i changed schools after 10th so i knew NO ONE. met this one person and got glued to them throughout the two years. i tried to speak to people who weren't a part of my group but again, i was very awkward. i don't want to continue with this in college so what can i do to improve and have small conversations without being awkward?