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New School and No friends?!

I've been going to a prep-school all my life and next year I'm going into high school. I really don't want to go to the same high school, I want to go to a public one...but I'm scared that I won't make any friends. What do I do? - Kelley, 14, USA

"Hey, Kelley!" Let me just let you know, Kelley, I know exactly how you feel. I have moved around so many times and I'm always having to go to a new school where I don't know anyone. So it's totally understandable that your scared, because I was too. Honestly, I think that you should just think over your decision carefully before you decide to do anything. Compare the two schools together to find out what you'll be missing out on if you choose one or the other. Find out how important it is for you to have what one or the other school has to offer you, and ask youself is it really worth it to go to a public school or stay at a prep school.

When you realize what you want and what you can handle, then the choice will be easy. Just make sure you know what the consequences of each decision will be. But don't let the fear of not making friends stop you, because high school can be tough but its also a lot of fun. Just think of it this way, when you first started at your old school you didnt know anyone but everything turned out fine. So don't worry, because, remember it'll be the first time at a new school for everybody in your class so there's really nothing to worry about. I hope this helps your figure outhow to solve your problem. Good Luck!

Ryma, 15, Florida