Despite what others might see on television or hear from others about the typical teenage life, like they’re generally outgoing and rambunctious in class, but not this teen.

I don’t like it when people—especially the peers in my class—I’ve never met call me by my name. I’ve seen them before, but I don’t know their name in return, so I dread it when teachers assign group work.

How the class sees me: I am the quiet kid, the one who has no friends and usually keeps to herself, but my teachers seem to like me.

I have an uncommon name, so I find it unsettling when I hear a “stranger” say it. Somehow I feel violated. I wonder what else they know about me, like if they know what I did last Friday, but it’s safe to say I don’t have that exciting of a life, so I would be innocent.

I also feel embarrassed. I mean, they know my name and they’re polite about it, but I don’t know their name so I am just left to have them assume that I know their name.

I feel stupid if I have to introduce myself, even though I’ve been in class with them for half the school year already.

On that note, I hate public speaking. By public speaking, I mean the 20-minute Hamlet presentation I had to give for English class last week.

I know I should break out of my shell and be open with people. Last summer, I thought I was going to be a little more open, but I’ve become more of a recluse and I think I know why, but that’s a different story.

I’ll grow up eventually, but I will enjoy my solitude for now.