Any dating tips for a struggling 18 year old male??

Not sure what you're really looking for. You say you don't want a body count (and I hope you don't) so taking your word on that then I'd keep on being you. Continue to work out and do something interesting and help others during this gap year. Don't look to compare yourself with your mate. You could be interested in a different kind of girl than they are attracting. If you're looking for a respectful kind of girl yet you're having w/ guys that are just adding notching to their belt (body count) you going to be assumed to be a body counter too. Nice girls (usually) can read that a mile away and will steer clear of you. Even if you're a nice guy you reputation is going to be the same as those you hang out with.
If you are heading off to uni I think, especially if your not going to the same uni as all your mates, you're going to have a much different experience. Don't just try to pick girl up at a club or bar.
At the end of the day you are still young and you will definitely meet a lot of new and interesting people at uni. Branch out with new friends there. Very important and I hope you'll be living in student accommodation. Girls like interesting guys that can have a good conversation. Don't overthink this. Meet girls and be friends don't just try to hit them up. Text w/ them for a bit then ask them out.
I honestly think it is just a matter of some time and not trying to just pulling a girl at a club.
Best of luck!