How do i overcome my fear of public speaking?

So, you do well when you speak in front of people you don't know. But you become stupid in front of your peers? That sounds about normal. We all do that. Many accomplished actors and public speakers have the same problem. So this is my one comment. Do not under any cicumstances look at your classmates in the face. Look directly over their heads. You will not see their smirks or smiles or any of those things that distract you. That has helped me a lot over the years. Hope it helps you!