Well this not might help but heres my opinion that ive learned so far (im only 21)
Dont get too down. Especially from other people. Your gonna get hurt in life. Its life. Try your best at everything. Failing is how you become successful. Learn from mistakes!
As far as that, go to prom. Have fun. Hang out with her. Be friends with her. If theres one thing Ive learned become really good friends first...then if it happens to turn into dating- congrats.
Ok so she askes you to prom...just chill out, if she likes you like that she will drop signs. Dont be one of those asses and not hang just because she dont want to be with you like that.
If your like best friends with the person you date you can be yourself, open, talk about anything, hang out anytime, and hey, it may be just like hanging with the guys!
Slow n easy slow n easy lol
goodluck