Some spin from personal parallels from that age... small chance this is exactly her scenario but it may be another consideration....
Perception of less intelligence in younger kids is perfectly acceptable as that is the expected norm. It is hard to accept your own perception of dullness in people your age. In one year it is a new social environment and new social circles, likely with more people closer in intellectual interest and capability. The summer internship will functionally be a sneak peek at the other side of the septic tank.
Why set herself up for social and emotional separation with friends that she likely won't retain perhaps even through the summer and definitely not come time for college? It can be unkind and disingenuous to start those friendships now. Similarly even with dating, if you know in yourself what criteria you have, and the purpose of dating is to "test" people out then that is also disingenious.
Intelligent, principle-based living combined with adolescent urges can make things pretty confusing. Also, you can't even explain it, because to put it to words undermines the position and makes the whole thing seem a bit of a fraud.
