[bambi vision]

You're your own worst enemy, as they say. It sounds like it's self-consciousness holding you back, or maybe 'self-awareness' is a better word to use.

I think there are two things worth remembering in this situation. Firstly, only very few people tend to know us as we really and genuinely are, so your concern that people might judge you as fake is for the most part non-existent. People are consistently changing, particularly young people, so it's hardly the most outlandish thing. Honestly, yes, people at school might initially notice that you've made what is in their eyes a 'drastic change' but that's the social climate for you. It's very focused on image. You've already said that you don't want to change your moral fibre and its nuances, so those closest to you will understand that you're not simply taking on a new appearance.
Secondly, and most importantly, you sincerely want to change - so this stereotype that you want to emulate is you. What I'm trying to say is that you are the person that you are now why? Because life's molded you that way. Now that you're in a position to change, now that you're aware of your choices and the possibilities of expression, do you want to remain the same? No. And it's that choice that is important and that defines you as a person.

You say that you're a part of a drama class and you've participated in a few plays. Would you be able to employ the techniques you use in drama to ease you in to accepting your new 'character' as yourself?
I know it's easier said than done, but it would probably help if you didn't focus on reviving your reputation, and instead saw this change as making a brand new one. This is a ridiculous example, but do you remember Avril Lavigne's image when she first came into public light? [solarnavigator.net] She was tomboyish, a poster-girl for stores like Claire's Accessories. And then she changed [images.newcelebritypics.com], and I remember it being a very sudden change. I got the impression that it wasn't a publicity stunt for her to appeal to markets outside of skateboarders and preteen acoustic guitar players, but just something that she'd wanted to do.

I agree with you: courage is key. And confidence, although they're similar things. If conforming to this stereotype is something that you want to do and have wanted to do for a while, I think it'll come across. You might not have the precise mechanics of the lifestyle down but hey, how could you? You haven't been there and done that yet.

[iMpAkT]

^ The next Shakespeare

I'm sorry I keep going off-topic but she's amazing lol

[SomeGuy]

Yes, I believe I am quite self-conscious.

And yes, I can even recall people in my school who have changed considerably in significantly short periods of time.

I never thought about drama until recently. Yes, I have always enjoyed acting and taking on the roles of characters, particularly stereotypes that we see in the media. Yes, I think it would be quite interesting and fun if I thought of it not as a way to improve my social status and skills, but merely as some sort of continuous drama project.

Thank you so much for helping me, you have really made me a lot happier and more confident, the path seems clearer now, woohooooo You're very pretty, btw.

[iMpAkT]

look at SomeGuy stepping his game up already lol

[SomeGuy]

Originally Posted by iMpAkT

look at SomeGuy stepping his game up already lol

Everything starts in the present.

And yeah, she's gorgeous, there's no lie there

[Sam1]

Originally Posted by SomeGuy

Everything starts in the present.

And yeah, she's gorgeous, there's no lie there

Gorgeous AND smart, guys...

It's interesting that the OP says he's missing a male role model yet gravitates towards the female..a good choice, mind you, but curious nonetheless. Hmmm....

[SomeGuy]

Originally Posted by Spock

Gorgeous AND smart, guys...

It's interesting that the OP says he's missing a male role model yet gravitates towards the female..a good choice, mind you, but curious nonetheless. Hmmm....

Well, THIS kind of 'gravity' is very, very different (If you read this bambi, please don't think me a perv; you really are attractive lol)

And yes, I would say that this fine young lady has many great qualities, even though I only know her through here (and still barely know her).