If your goal is just to have a girlfriend, then I think you're going about it the wrong way. A girlfriend is not something that you own like a tablet or a pair of jeans, she's a person. So that means, you have to put in the effort, just like you make an effort in your Biology exams. 

Who cares who assumes anything even if you're 26 and don't have a significant other yet, insecurities aren't attractive. Perhaps, you should work on yourself first. 

Lastly, start off as friends, focus on getting to know the other person...that's how you can avoid confidence spasms, it's not just about you in a relationship . Being in a bad relationship is bad, worse, so no rush. Life is too short just to focus on a significant other.

Goodluck and 2013 will bring you some love!