I’ll be the first to admit that I was never an extrovert. If given the choice of staying inside all day or hanging out with people, I’d choose staying inside.

Going into high school, I expected it to be pretty similar to middle school, but with stricter teachers. I didn’t expect to make new friends, or to feel more comfortable around people. I always thought Link Crew was just supposed to say things about getting involved, and maybe they are, but there’s a truth to it.

I joined Band and Newspaper, both of which are a big family. It felt closed off at first, because I didn’t know anybody who wasn’t also a freshman. They all knew each other, so it was awkward at first. However, the longer I spent with the two groups, I didn’t feel uncomfortable.

After getting out of my comfort zone, I’m began to figure out who I really am. 

It’s pretty silly to find out in high school, because you’d think being 14, I would know more about myself. 

I’ve always relied on others to tell me what I’m like, but I don’t think I want that anymore. I want to be myself, which apparently means being social. I’m less of an introvert than I thought I was at the beginning of the year.

To anyone who’s more of an introvert, try and get out of your shell. Listen to all those speeches Link Crew makes about getting involved. It doesn’t have to be as drastic as joining a 125 member band, but try joining a small club. You might discover something new about yourself.