SILER CITY - In January, Central Carolina Community College's High School Equivalency program located at the Siler City Center campus began a new drop-in program called "Fast Track Friday." Students seeking to earn their high school equivalency diploma can come to the campus any Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to see how they score on practice tests, get assistance and resources, and sign up for the official tests.

"The idea is to provide an easy opportunity each week for people who might be thinking about getting started on their high school equivalency diploma," said Tammie Quick, CCCC College and Career Readiness Coordinator in Chatham County. "We wanted to remove long drawn-out processes and barriers to getting students on their paths to earning their high school credentials. Once students see how easy the process is and they see some success, it is easier for them to stay with the program and complete their diploma."

One of Fast Track Friday's first graduates was Trajohncey Tysor of Goldston. When asked why she chose CCCC's Friday program, she replied, "I would have to say that the simplicity of the program is the best part about it. From the day that I started to the day that I finished, there wasn't a time that I ever felt confused or overwhelmed with the program's way of functioning. It's a beautiful way of keeping students focused on what's most important, without all of the unnecessary stress."

Tysor is not stopping there. She plans to start the Early Childhood Education program at CCCC in the fall, and obtain her Associate's degree by 2021. "I aspire to be a daycare worker, and to hopefully inspire young children the same way that the amazing staff members and teachers at CCCC have inspired me."

For those interested in earning a high school credential, Fast Track Fridays are open to anyone over 16 who is not currently enrolled in a high school program. Those interested can come to CCCC's Siler City Center at 400 Progress Blvd., near the Chatham Hospital, on any Friday through May 17, anytime between 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Call 919-545-8663 for more information.