Here's How to Become Popular in School ...

You don't have to become everyone's best friend overnight, but it certainly helps to have a lot of friends, or at least acquaintances, if you want to raise your social status. Talk to and be kind to everyone so that you begin building up a reputation as a friendly, sociable person. Eventually, even the people who don't know you will know of you.

People are naturally drawn to visually appealing, unique people. When you develop your own style, you not only learn how to express yourself in a new way, you also attract attention from others. You'll be known as the "girl in neon pants" or "the girl who wears high heels" and people will recognize you walking down the hall, without even having been introduced! If that's not popularity I don't know what is!

I'm sure you know how important extracurriculars are in regards to college and overall high school experience but did you know they can help you ascend the social ladder, too? Think about it, extracurriculars give you the opportunity to get to know lots of people, identify with a certain group, and become a leader if you run for office. So find a club, sport, or art that interests you and jump right in!

Whether your reputation is the know-it-all or the class clown, the point is you have a reputation! Always participate in class so that people see your face and get a sense of who you are.

If there's a shopping center, cafe, or coffee shop where many of your peers hang out, make a point of going there as often as possible. If people don't see you outside of school, they'll assume the worst and figure you're just a hermit who thinks she's too cool to hang out with her peers. Plus, it's a great place to make new friends who will lead to greater popularity!

It's always a good idea to have multiple groups of friends so that you always have someone to go out with! That way, you're out socializing, having a good time, and proving that you're a fun person.

If you really want to be popular in high school, you have to be somewhat strategic with your friendships. If you've ever watched the show Survivor, you know how important alliances are! And when you think about it, high school is basically a four-year-long episode of Survivor! Befriend people who have big personalities and are already popular, then share a little bit of their spotlight until you get your own.

Popularity isn't the path for everyone, but if it is for you, try these methods to help you rise to the top. But remember to never resort to below-the-belt type tactics like gossip and cruelty to get to the top. How do you recommend attaining your dreams of popularity?