I don't think being shy is the issue. More like being an asshole. Being socially adept is HUGE imo. You don't have to be Mr. Popularity, but just don't be a Douche. I have SEEN the Better Artist Candidate A, passed over because he didn't fit in as well as the Almost as good but the immensely more Sociable Candidate B.
I guess "socially awkward" does look a bit negative, please don't mistake it for incompetence. What I should of said is I'm introverted. http://giftedkids.about.com/b/2006/07/13/shy-or-introverted.htm I don't get nervous in social situations, I just don't have any interest in small talk. I do like to discuss topics that…