High school is what I have come to call a “social experiment." As I have gone through middle school and my first two years of high school, I have aimed to truly enjoy the company of people and, through that, I have met many of those whom I call my closest friends. These friends are awesome and share many of the following important characteristics of friendship:

1. Stickin’ Like Glue

Believe me when I say we all need someone who is there for us no matter what problems come up. We need one of those people who you can count on to help you out in sticky situations while pushing you to the best of your ability. One of those people who you can text at 3 AM, freaking out about a paper due the next day or a nightmare that needs to be talked about.

2. Come Into My Circle

This is very important! It's important to find a friend that will include you in conversations, plans, working, and more. A friend makes you feel welcome and comfortable and you should make them feel the same way.

3. Shh... It’s A Secret

This is one of my biggest fears when picking friends. Why would I want to be friends with someone who I can’t talk to and trust? When I am looking for a friend, I look for someone to be my therapist.

4. Trust Me When I Tell You

We need a person to keep our secrets, but when we need advice, who do we go to? Having a friend who is honest with you without intentionally making you feel bad about yourself is very important.

5. If You’re a Bird, I’m a Bird

I need a person who will laugh with me. Someone who won’t let me do dumb stuff alone, like dancing and singing (at the top of our lungs, of course!) to music in the car. Someone to have inside jokes with that no one can understand because it is just too funny to explain. Someone who will pull all nighters with you watching Netflix and eating every single type of junk food you can find your house. Most important of all, we all need someone who shows us they care without being jealous or mean or stiff with you. We all need someone to show us that we are loved.