My high school was like any other, and within its walls you could find the standard division of teen culture broken down into three main categories: the popular kids, the nerds, and the metalheads. Although the names of each clique may change from one generation to the next, the roles remain the same. On April 20, 1999, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold made history when they laid siege to their high school in the deadliest massacre ever recorded for an American high school in U.S. history. In the aftermath of Columbine, the writings and videos left by the killers made it clear that they were enraged by the low-level position imposed on them by their classmates' leadership. With limited supervision in our public schools, children are virtually free to create their own class society. This division system is the epitome of savagery, creating an atmosphere of “survival of the fittest.” At my school, the popular kids, otherwise known as jocks or coaches, were at the top of the food chain. They were the football players, the cheerleaders, and the prom queens. They were the most attractive, the most competitive, and the most sociable of the other groups. The boys wore blue jeans with rolled cuffs and T-shirts with their letter jackets, and the girls wore skirts with patterned socks, matching sweaters and sequined hair accessories. This group was the most popular with the adults at the school and often received special benefits such as preferential parking. Exuding school spirit, they were the pride and joy of the school (and the entire town). Most of the kids in this group were bright, well-adjusted, and happy as they tried their best to conform and meet the expectations of their parents, coach... middle of paper... . for some, drugs, as a form of entertainment. We were resented by everyone on campus and considered losers. Being relegated to the outer fringes of the social structure, I can attest to the oppressive nature of teen culture. It was a virtual prison, limiting those deemed unworthy the ability to take pride in themselves and strive to be their best. After graduation, I distinctly remember the feeling that a black cloud had lifted from me, my chains had been crushed. No longer subject to my lower class position, I was free to be the master of my own domain. The funny thing is, our success in life didn't seem to be influenced by the group we were a part of in high school. If I could give advice to someone who is burdened by rank in their school, I would tell them to work hard and be patient, the sweetest revenge is found in success.