WANTS HIM TO NOTICE HER

Dear Jellybean,

There's this really cute drummer I've been crushing on in my band class, the problem is that I'm a sophmore, and he's a juinor. I know that in high school, its totally normal for people to date other grades, but I guess I wouldn't think of dating a freshmen, so why would I expect him to date a sophmore? Also, I was wondering if you had any tips on how to at least get him to notice me. I've read all of your flirting tips, and at my school, just walking up to people and talking to people just isn't done. So if you could give me some advice, that would be great!
-Marissa, age 16

Dear Marissa,

Love conquers all, so they say, and attraction conquers a lot too - especially when it comes to minor age or grade differences. What I'm telling you is, if your cute drummer likes you back, he'll date you regardless of the freshman-sophomore gap.

So how do you get his attention, when you can't just walk up and talk to him? Start by giving him a nice smile whenever you happen to catch his eye. Of course, you'll want to try and cross his path as often as possible, to give yourself opportunities to lock peepers with him. Walk by his section as you enter the classroom, or find excuses to turn around (like waving at a friend, checking the clock, etc.) if he sits behind you in class.

If you keep tossing him smiles, and he smiles back, that's a great sign that he could be interested. If he is, it's just a matter of time before he finds an excuse to come and talk to you. You can also keep up the smiling if you pass him in the halls, and hopefully (again, if he likes you back) he'll take the chance to say "hi" or start a conversation.

Also, keep on the alert for chances to socialize more at band nights, performances for parents, etc. For special band occasions, people who don't normally mingle will talk to each other, and it will be less weird to just walk up (or walk past) and say something casual but friendly, like "I hope we do well, I'm so nervous!" Or, "I like your jacket".