I don't want to help my friend in a project that he is working on
Is there a reason you won't help him?
Yes. I'm trying to make myself popular because no one respects me
I get that you want to be popular, but it is never worth it. People will forget your after high school, so it is meaningless. It is better to stick with your friend and help him, as good friendships can last long.
I don't care about what happens after high school. I'm trying to get a life of my own.
All I'm saying is that you should be helping out your friends no matter what. And it's not like helping him with schoolwork will make you unpopular.