I would generally agree even though I am an outlier as I met my best friend when I was 12 and some of my good friends are from high school.
I had reservations posting what I did... But I'm now 24, and having been reintroduced to many of them after a few years of time apart.... I realize my own journey and interests were the sign of discord I had with them when I was 17. Alas, they are good people, but not the people who are healthy for me to be around as I once was by happenstance. I grew up in sort of a small-town environment. anyways, somewhat of a less dour take on my initial advice per the topic of this article, swedishbadgergirl, don't be afraid to pursue what you love, even if no one around you sees any interest of the sorts. There are 7 billion people on the planet, there ought to be at least one other person who shares your interests.... Or maybe not, in that case, lucky you ;-) Those sorts of dreams are far and few between. And remind your mother/father/guardian you love them, at least for the effort to have put a roof over your head and bread on the table while you were developing into the person you are today.
Small town REPRESENT! I am sorrounded by people sharing my interests. It's wonderful. We snark about politics and nerdy stuff and like, everything. It's nice.