(1) A lot of students work at least part time, so if you need to work, it's okay to take just one or two college classes.

(2) Money Solution; There is an exemption to paying high out of state tuition. Get your high school teacher to e-mail Dalton State Admissions a recommendation for you to get a waiver.

(3) If you fail a high school graduation test, you can still come to DSC, but you have to take a certificate program first.

4)  Go to Class.  It is as simple as that.  With your ears and eyes you can learn a lot!

5)  Find a quiet place for at least one hour for your homework - home, library, school, the Y's teen room, church.  Ask for your parents' help in this.

6)  Turn off the TV, radio and CD for at least one hour and concentrate on homework.

7)  Find one teacher you like and makes friends with him or her.  They will welcome you!

8)  Take the hard subjects.  Whether you earn an A or a C, you will be glad you tried to prepare for college and the work-world.

9)  If you are interested in preparing for college, take the following classes : 3-4 years of English, 3-4 years of math, 3 years of social studies, 2 science classes (including biology or chemistry or physics), and 2 years of a foreign language.  This will still allow you to take fun classes like computers, journalism, drafting, etc.

10) Get involved in sports, or the newspaper, or drama club, or anything that interests you.

11)  Hang out with other students who go to class.  Do not hang out with kids who do not go to class.

12) Talk to your counselor about things.  Sure, they don't have a lot of time, but please ask for their time.

13)  Find a hero who made a difference in the world.  If they could do it, so can you!