In that case, avoid programming if you wanna get more popular/friends...that gets you the geek label over what sounds like the already-gotten nerd label. Getting out more is definitely the best thing posted in your thread, and I'd say hold off until next year. 9th grade screams new identitiy, so make sure to get involved. At school, there should be 20+ clubs you can join with their own activities and whatnot. Exploring different stuff is a good way to find a hobby.