by Adam Levine ‘20

TikTok’s algorithm, which comes to fruition with the “For You” page, makes it easy for aspiring TikTok-ers to find quick fame, as more likes, shares, and views sends out the TikTok to lots of users. Sherwood has a number of these famous TikTok users, those who gained fame through comedy and dancing videos alike.

Among these popular TikTok users include numerous Sherwood students, including junior Katie Feeney (1.8 million followers), seniors Brady and Brandon Holda (186.1 thousand followers), junior Jasmine Groom (100.8 thousand followers), and many others. While some of these Warriors have found fame in dance, like Feeney and Groom, others find their niche on the app in comedy, like freshman Damon Greenan and junior Maryam Higazi.

Because of the For You page’s consideration of location, Sherwood students often see their peers in their feed, like senior Lauren Loebach.

“I usually see Katie Feeney or one of her friends,” Loebach said. “They’re almost always dance accounts, but I once saw a really funny one. I think her name was Maryam Higazi. She deserves more followers.”
Although some may not consider TikTok popularity true fame, in a high school recognition is bound to happen. Groom explained how “people have come up to me saying ‘Is this you that did this video?’ or even a simple ‘Hi Jazzi!’” Higazi, who gained popularity for her jokes, she said, about wearing a hijab and being of Middle eastern origin, agreed, also explaining that there are a lot of famous TikTok users at Sherwood.

“Someone’s even commented on one of my videos asking ‘Why is everyone at Sherwood TikTok famous?’” Higazi said. “I still think now it’s becoming pretty normal. I’ve seen people make TikToks about all the famous people in their schools, and there seems to be a lot of them everywhere.”

Sherwood students are spreading influence into the TikTok community as Groom and her friends create new dance trends, hoping people will duet or create their own.

“I am most known for … doing dances with Katie Feeney and Ashley Landreth. We started many dance trends on all our accounts that many creators wanted to try. When Katie, Ashley, and I promoted Ivory Ella, we started the ‘Soulja Boy’ dance trend, and [we made] a dance to a song called ‘Ride It’ … during track season,” Groom said. “Since I am a dancer, it is easy for me to come up with cool dances that everyone can try. Not to mention there are many trends that I can add my own little twist to … and make it more original!”

For those who wish to find similar fame as some of their peers on TikTok, Groom offers some advice.

“TikTok isn’t about making fun of anyone or trying to bring anyone down. It’s an app where anyone can express or promote their own selves. Be yourself,” Groom said. “The people judging you are just jealous of how confident and amazing you are. Post every day and be original!”