Hi @Kenzie ,
Thanks for reaching out for advice regarding a transition in your friendship group. I think a good place to start would be to know exactly what you are looking for in a friend (e.g., loyalty, honesty, humour, etc.,) and the reasons behind your desire to become part of the 'popular' group at school. Knowing this will help you best judge the type of people you want to surround yourself with. An important thing to remember is not to burn any bridges with the people you are currently hanging out with.
I would recommend engaging in more conversation and activities with the people you want to get closer with. This could be talking to them outside of class, asking about their interests or inquiring about social plans they may have to see if there is a potential you could join them. This will allow you to get to know them on a deeper level and start to branch out by being involved in activities with their friends too. Also, when people from the popular group do talk to you try and make the conversation a meaningful one and express interest in hanging out with them. I know it might seem daunting but unless you put yourself out there, it will be hard to extend your social network 😊
