I agree, great band, Simone has one of the best voices in symphonic Gothic metal.
Anyway staying on topic, I understand that it can be difficult to maintain friendships unless you have a mutual interest with someone, I would say that the best thing to do is to make financial security and academic pursuits a priority in your life, relationships and friendships can sometimes get in the way of other pursuits. You could always join a club or a community class that shares a mutual interest, that way you have a reason to talk to people and you might find it easier.