Say hello. Seems obvious, but it’s one of the easiest things you can do. Go ahead, introduce yourself the girl sitting next to you in homeroom. Make eye contact (but don’t stare) and smile. She won’t bite. We promise.

Laugh out loud. Ever notice funny people have more friends? After all, who doesn’t enjoy a good laugh? You don’t have to study up on knock-knock jokes. Telling a funny story about the time you tripped outside of English class will work just fine.

Give a compliment. Be honest, you love it when someone else notices your new ‘do or fab earrings. So return the favor and tell the girl sitting in front of you how much you adore her flats. You’ll make her day and feel awesome, too.

Join a club. Probably one of the best ways to make new friends is to surround yourself with people who enjoy the same activities and hobbies as you do. So whether you’re a drama queen or a chess champion, you’re bound to find someone who loves it just as much as you.

Bring your "A" game. It’s a two-for-one deal: Get a good workout AND find a workout buddy. You don’t have to try out for varsity volleyball or field hockey. A local rec team works, too. Be competitive, but don’t be a bully to break a sweat.

Be yourself. No one likes a copycat. Instead of constantly changing yourself to impress other people, do your own thing. Not only will you feel better and more confident, you’ll find people who like you for who you really are.

Lend a helping hand. Do a good deed and pair up with a pal. See a sistah struggling with her books? Offer to carry some. Positive vibes will automatically attract people your way. You’ll make a new friend and help someone in need. How’s that for multi-tasking?

Start a conversation. You can join every club at school, but if you don’t open your mouth, you’ll miss out on chances to meet awesome people. Talk about anything. Talk about the new Jo Bros CD. Talk about your homework. And ask questions, too! No one likes a chatterbox that’s all about me, me, ME!

Listen carefully. Really open your ears to what people are saying. You’ll learn more about them and what they like and don’t like. Plus, the next time you meet and greet, you have ammo to keep the conversation going. She will be impressed you remembered her fave Taylor Swift song.

Be a good friend. Remember the Golden Rule: Treat others the way you want to be treated and you can’t go wrong. Be loyal. Be trustworthy. Be respectful. But most importantly, just be there—through good times and bad.

By L’Oreal Thompson