Ever notice what "Lizzie McGuire," "Harry Potter," "Smallville" and numerous other TV shows and movies that have shaped our lives have in common? Among inspiring plots and memorable lessons, there is one thing I have always noticed that these works have in common — friendship trios. Of course I'm talking about the famous Harry, Ron and Hermione; Lizzie, Gordo, Miranda; Clark, Pete and Chloe; the list goes on. So what's up with all these trios?

You might have grown up hearing that three can be a difficult number to pal around in. Someone always seems to feel a little left out, and it could lead to jealousy and resentment. However, I've come to find that the older you get, these feelings of being left out do not exactly become a problem in groups of three. The older you get, and the better you come to know yourself, you're able to find friends who build you up and are always there for you. Maybe it's because we all grew up and audience to the famous trios, but I've come to notice that many groups of friends I find myself in form that magic little number of three. Besides, I don't end up feeling left out in any which way, but rather feel like I've got a mini from-home family when in a trio.

However, I do not mean to sound cliquey. While the trio is fun and makes for some memorable squad pics, a group can easily become a quartet or quintet. In books, TV or movies, it might appear differently, as the trios are a strong and unbreakable group. The reality is, though, with time going by, people are going to come in and out of your life, and, therefore, your friend group is most likely going to shift, and you're going to end up meeting new people and question how you haven't known each other for X amount of years. Prime example here — "Friends." Six misfits living in New York City who have not all known each other for their whole lives form one of the most admired friendship groups of our generation, because they care for, respect and value each other.

I can say from experience that there are truly friends everywhere. I moved states right before going into high school, and trust me, I thought my world was over (as any eighth grader likely would). However, after I took the time to adjust to my new surroundings, I found that people who were once strangers became like family I could not be without. This is also what I've found in going off to college. I've met some exceptional people while off at school, and I really don't know what it would be like if I had not.

Moral of the story — it's all good to immerse yourself in those shows or books were the trio is strong. Look up to those friendships, aspire to them. But make room for those people in your life who just might not have shown up yet. Have an open mind when going to new places and situations, because if you're lucky, you might just find your trio, duo, quartet and so on.