Participation in extracurricular clubs and programs is also a good way to develop new skills and build valuable relationships and experience that could benefit you later on.

You can usually find out what’s going on in your school through daily announcements and bulletin board postings. Keep an eye out for events that pique your interest, as there will be others with the same interests in attendance.

While social media platforms can be useful tools for making a staying connected to friends, they can also be distracting, time-consuming and used to bully or harass. Treat your friends respectfully, even online, and be sure not to spend so much time using social media that it outweighs your personal life.

If you have a special talent or something particularly interesting about yourself, demonstrate it openly. Allow people to see for themselves who you are and what you can do. Don’t conform to norms or try to fit in. Be approachable to draw others to you, then give them a glimpse of something different. One way to show that you are unique is to present many different aspects of yourself. Don’t just cling to one activity or interest. Be smart, be creative, be edgy. Surprise people.

Taking the initiative to invite people to events you’ve planned shows that you’re interested in being their friend. If you decide to throw a house party, make sure it doesn’t get out of hand. Your guests are your responsibility, so underage drinking and drug use are frowned upon. Keep noise to a moderate level out of respect for your neighbors. Bowling is a perfect casual outing. You can go in large groups, and it’s a fun, relaxed environment to socialize in.

Remember to be confident. When you’re at the center of attention, it’s important that you be cool and collected. Talk to everyone. Make the rounds and repay the attention you’re getting. Say hi to the people you know, and introduce yourself to those that you don’t. Make everyone feel like they’re on your radar. Make sure everyone else is having fun. Fun should be your main priority. When other people see what a good time you’re having, it will make them want to be around you more.

For example, you can stand out in the classroom by having a great work ethic and being a leader. [8] X Expert Source Katie StyzekProfessional School Counselor Expert Interview. 26 March 2021. Talk to people about your involvement in things. Mention that you’re a part of the honor’s society, or that you won the state wrestling tournament. It’s alright to be proud of your achievements. Don’t brag about yourself. Modesty is an admirable trait of popular people.

Practicing confident habits lowers anxiety and improves social performance, which can make you more outgoing and help those around you feel at ease.

Investing in your appearance isn’t just about having cool clothes. It means adjusting your attitude and behavior to highlight your most attractive qualities. Get in the habit of bathing and grooming regularly, get plenty of sleep, and make sure you engage in some sort of physical activity.

Eating in the morning doesn’t have to be complicated: good morning nutrition can be as simple as a bowl of oatmeal, or a muffin with a banana and a glass of milk. If you’re short on time or not accustomed to having breakfast at home, most public schools provide a basic breakfast for students who arrive early enough.

Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone new![12] X Expert Source Katie StyzekProfessional School Counselor Expert Interview. 26 March 2021.