How To: Get a celebrity prom date

What would be cooler than showing up at your prom with a famous celebrity? It's a long shot, but here's your best chance to make it a reality.

Step 1: Pick a celebrity
Pick a celebrity who might actually say yes. In other words, think "up and coming," not "international superstar."

Step 2: Have a hook
Have a hook that makes you sympathetic. A celebrity isn't going to be your date because they don't have plans – they're going to accept because they want the publicity, or because they feel sorry for you.

Don't lie! If a celeb is going to go to the trouble of coming, they'll probably check out your story.

Step 3: Write a letter
Send a letter to the star's publicist a few months in advance. Call the Screen Actors Guild in New York or L.A. for the star's agent, then ask the agent how to contact the star's publicist. Also try searching online for the star's name along with "said his [or her] publicist." If you want to contact a music star, write to him or her in care of his record label.

If the agent's assistant wants to know why you need the publicist's name, be vague—just say you want to send him a request involving your school.

Step 4: Be polite
Keep your request polite, wholesome, and heartfelt. Tuck in some heartwarming pictures of you and your family.

Step 5: Alert your school
Ask your school principal, counselor, or a favorite teacher if you can include their name and number in the letter so the star's reps can check you out.

Step 6: Find a contest
Hedge your bets by entering contests that provide celebrity dates. Go online to see what may be going on this year. And when prom rolls around, have a great time!

Fact: In 2007, pop star Rihanna surprised a Tampa, Florida, high school student by taking him to his prom!