Letters.

PRESSURE COOKER

I can totally relate to "Aaaahh! The Pressure" [A/S '00]. I'm a high school sophomore, and the school pressure is horrible! I have so many classes and so much homework--it takes hours to finish it. Thank you for all the tips. I really hope to relax and get better grades, too!

Crystal

I was a 4.0 student, and my grades fell to a 3.71. I was very disappointed with myself--even though a 3.71 is still high. I worked like crazy to improve my GPA. I brought it up to a 3.86, but I still wasn't satisfied. Your article helped me understand that getting straight A's isn't everything.

Kristina

Last year, I was totally obsessed with my grades, and I had to do better than everyone else. Your article points out good grades are great, but there is more to life.

Emily

THE DATING DILEMMA

Thank you for "The Dating Game." [A/S '00] I am almost 13, and all of my friends have "gone out" with a boy except for me. I felt out of place. Your article totally changed my attitude. I don't feel as weird around my friends when they talk about boys. My self-confidence has returned. Thanks!

Shawna

I started dating when I was 10 and had three boyfriends within a matter of months. I haven't had one within the past two years because I realized I'm not ready. I hope your 10- and 11-year-old readers take this article to heart. My 14-year-old friends and I realize that dating so young is a waste of time and energy.

Jamie

I am one of the few girls in my class who has never even had a boyfriend. After reading your dating article, I feel much better about going back to school boyfriend-less.

Elyse

Way to go on "The Dating Game." Other teen magazines make it seem like you have to have a BF to be cool. More and more girls feel down on themselves because of the pressure to date and fit in--at age 11! Why waste your time and risk a broken heart so young? Your magazine approaches these issues with such a sensible perspective. Thanks a bunch!

Carly

"The Dating Game" was a really good article, and I like how you showed the different sides of dating. I'm starting middle school and, even though I don't plan on dating for several years, I am curious. I especially enjoyed the segment about Lindsay and Brian's relationship--that was a great idea!

Anonymous

I was frustrated with "The Dating Game." I felt like you were telling girls we should wait to date. I think girls should experience dating and learn from their own mistakes. We do need some dating advice, but I don't think readers should be told they shouldn't date too early. Without experiencing puppy love, how will you know when it's the real deal?

Eve

Possibly, the dating scene is just really different at my school. Girls don't date to become popular. I went out with two guys last year, and neither of them were super cute or anything--they were kind of dorky. When we broke up, I told them to their faces. I told them nicely and maturely, and we are still friends. When we "date" we actually talk, hold hands, IM and go on double dates. Maybe I am more mature, but I really don't think dating should be about giggling in front of guys and liking someone new every three days. What's the point?

Bethany

"The Dating Game" threw me off balance. The article only focused on the negative aspects of dating--like dating too young, dating too frequently and dating to be popular. But there are good points to dating, too! If you like a guy and he likes you, why not? It's a great way to make new friends and a great way to have some fun!

Luca

Everyone you featured in your dating article wished they had never even dated at all. Although, in some ways I agree with them. Mostly, though, I think you live and learn. So they dated some of the wrong people--that's how we learn who we might like in the future. Most of the girls made it sound like they wish someone had told them not to date. But do you think they would have listened? My guess is no. Dating can be superficial--at least now they know.

Rachel

NEW GIRL

Thank you for "New School? No Sweat!" [A/S '00] I am one of your younger readers, and I'm starting middle school. Your article answered a lot of my important questions. Now, I'm not so nervous to start school.

Brittany

I'm the new girl this year. You gave me the confidence I need. You also offered some great strategies for fitting in--can't wait to give them a try.

Ashley

I am moving this year, and I was worried I wouldn't fit in at my new school. Now, I am sure I will make new friends and won't be a loser!

Molly

Thanks so much for "New School? No Sweat!" This year, we're merging with a neighboring school and I am really nervous--even though all of my friends are coming with me. I've been at the same school since kindergarten, and I've never had this problem. After reading your article, I learned how to start talking to new kids.

Anonymous

BEAUTY BAG

Thank you so much for "What's Your Bag?" I loved the "fresh face" idea. My mom really doesn't like me to wear a lot of makeup, so this look is just perfect for me. I can't wait to try this for the first day of school.

Anonymous

BRING IT ON!

Hey! I've been a subscriber for awhile, and your recent issue has me wanting more! I loved the A/S '00 issue! Most teen mags concentrate on how to get a guy. It's nice to find a magazine that deals with reality.

Me

Every issue of Girls' Life has brought me inspiration and pride. Your A/S '00 issue got me psyched for middle school--after dreading it for so long. You also helped me realize dating isn't right for me now. I'll wait until I'm older. Just being friends with guys makes me feel great. Don't ever stop bringing us the confidence we need to survive our teen years. I don't know what I'd do without all of your great information.

Sarah

SURVIVOR BLOOPER

I loved your "Celebrity Survivor" article and all the unique interview questions. I especially liked Hanson! They are the best! Thank you so much for including them. Just one thing--Isaac is 19, Taylor is 17, and Zack will be 15 in October. Besides the age goofs, the article was the best I've ever read!

Melissa