@CoastalRat,
Yeah I agree - depends on what you consider being popular. Having lots of "friends" that really are not going to be there when you really need them. Do you want to be able to hang around with alot of "cool" kids that are doing things you are not interested in and do not like.
I can't imagine (unless you really like doing those things) that you would enjoy being with them any way. What fun are you going to have if you doing things you don't think are right?
Granted my girls are younger than you - but they both have lots of friends. My youngest is very popular - she is invited to all the birthday parties even the boys. She has her own mind and lets others know about when she disapproves of things or if someone is being mean to another. I tell her (and I believe it) that she is popular because she is kind and considerate of everyone.