An outsider is someone who does not fit in their specific group. In high school situations, this usually refers to a friend group. Maybe this person thinks they’re in the group but is not completely, or maybe they know they are on the outskirts but do not have another place to go.

When surveyed, 34 of 55 students from Antioch Community High School answered that they had friends from various groups. 12 of the 55 students said that they were in a particular friend group, seven said they were not and the remaining two responded with other.

64% of those surveyed responded that they have felt left out when with their friends.

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“I like to describe it as being the spare tire,” junior Sydney Koslica said. “I’m not really in their group. If one of them is gone then suddenly they will talk to me, but as soon as they come back I’m kicked out. It sucks especially because I just sit there completely aware that I’m not important to them but I can’t leave because I don’t have anybody else.”

Another student had a different point of view. They believed that if they were an outsider with their friends, the people would not be their friends.

“My friends are my friends,” senior Sally Bessette said. “They’re my go to people, people I’m comfortable around and can be myself around. People I have things in common with.”

Overall, most students at ACHS have been an outsider with their friends before. Whatever the case may be, no one should ever feel alone. The next time one spots someone alone on the sidelines, welcome them with open arms and make them feel welcomed and cared for. When walking in the hallway, give a stranger a smile and make their day. The simplest thing can make the greatest impact. Be aware of how one treats their friends and always remember one’s worth.

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