Smart Kids Drop Out

- Are you bored in school?
- Are you ready to handle a college load? Though you will be spending less time in classrooms, you will get more homework!
- Are you and your parents in a position to finance your education?
- Are you okay with missing traditional high school experiences like prom and graduation?
- Are you comfortable with socializing with people several years older than you?
- Are you comfortable turning down dates from students several years older than you? In some cases, you will actually break the law by dating older students.
- Can you handle peer pressure from older students? College students are generally 18 and older - they have different rights and responsibilities than teenagers, and may try to pressure you into things you don't want to do and may be illegal (like smoking).
- As long as you are under 18, your parents can access your college records. Is this okay with you?
- Do you have the motivation to stick with college?
- Are you ready to handle the stigma of being a "drop out"? This may cause issues when trying to get jobs while you're in college.

Smarting Out can be the best decision of your life, as long as you are emotionally, mentally, and financially prepared.

Photo credit: m00by

- Learn the drop-out laws in your school district. If it's against the law for you to drop out, your parents may get in trouble if you drop out. It may be better to homeschool and go to college until you can drop out and go to college.

- Get your parent's support! Find out their concerns and kindly, calmly address them. If they say no, then you may not be able to smart out. Be willing to compromise - maybe you will still live at home while you attend college until you turn 18, instead of living in a dorm.

- Consult a lawyer for the proper process.

- Put together your portfolio to send to colleges. Be sure to scan in or take photos of any awards or honors you have. If you already know your major and you have any experience in it, put in documentation. For example, I practically lived at the local theatre as a teenager, so I had lots of photos of me at my productions, in costume, as a stage hand, etc. I put these in my portfolio as well as copies of the plays I wrote. Do the same with your accomplishments!

- Apply at community colleges or four-year colleges before you smart out. Be sure that you are accepted before you smart out!

- File any necessary paperwork at school.

- You may need a GED or high school equivalency test to go to college - ask them, and study up for the test.

- Get excited to start college!

Photo credit: Thomas Edwards

- Be sure you have the support of your parents!

- Make sure you are accepted at a college before you smart out.

- If you are unsure about handling the college load, start out with a part-time load.

- Find a college close to home for easiest transition.

- Take fun courses along with core courses so you enjoy every semester.

- Stick to it - you can do it!

Photo credit: lesliebyk