I knew most everyone from Middle School, though there were a few new kids. High school in my town started in 8th grade. I never wanted to be part of any particular clique, had friends among all the different groups, and that was fine with me. Made some friends I still hold dear to this day.

My advice? Be yourself. Introduce yourself to people. Don't let anyone pressure you into doing something you're uncomfortable with, and you'll be fine.

I was (and still am) not shy. I got into "Senior Chorus" in 9th grade simply because they had scheduled a few of us into it without telling the director. There were three of us wondering what to do (Mary and Lisa were a grade ahead of me), so I dragged them with me, spoke to the director (by whom they were intimidated) and talked him into giving us auditions on the spot. We all got in, and that was it!

Look around, find someone with whom you might have something in common, and talk to them - you never know, you might end up with a friend!