On the Fast Track to the Future

Trey Bennett

By 2009, Trey Bennett plans to be on his way to law school or pursuing a career in politics. An accomplished violinist, natural born leader and oldest brother of seven best describes Trey on paper. However, this home-schooled graduate says he is not the average teenager. Participating in the Georgia Music Educators Association All-State Orchestra, teaching music and volunteering for his church keeps Trey busy. Trey is the son of Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Bennett Jr. of Gainesville.

Melanie Costyn

Melanie Costyn, daughter of Diane and Joe Costyn of Hull, may be leaving for Berry College this summer; however, she's no stranger to college life. Joint-enrolled at Madison High School and the University of Georgia, Melanie took the plunge into college studies early in preparation for her career in nursing. Citing her mission trip to Honduras as life changing, Melanie plans to take her education and life experiences to the fast-paced world of neonatal care.

Stephen Foster

In the fall of 2005, Stephen Foster will be an official freshman at Gainesville College. The son of Stephen and Lynn Foster of Statham, Stephen received several honors, including the President's Education Award for Outstanding Academic Excellence and the University of Georgia Certificate of Merit. Although he's excelled academically, you won't find the stereotypical bookworm in Stephen. Stephen's love of literature, theater and comedic improvisation keeps every moment lively with this graduate.

Ashley Logan

Ashley has a jumpstart on her future career as a physical therapist. Joint-enrolled in Banks County High and Piedmont College, Ashley says she's ready for full-time college coursework at Brenau University. The daughter of Wanda and Larry Logan, Ashley decided to pursue a career in physical therapy after helping her cousin's family after a tragic car accident. Attending physical therapy appointments, helping with exercise and witnessing the recovery process led Ashley to focus her education toward physical therapy.

Christa Spence

Balancing work and school life isn't easy; however, Christa Spence is managing well. Entering her sophomore year at Gainesville College, Christa continues to work a part-time job and previously worked at a pediatrician's office as well. Although she enjoyed learning about pediatric medicine, Christa plans to pursue a career in sport and exercise physiology. The daughter of Lauralee and Jeff Spence of Winder, Christa's goal is to become a personal trainer or work in sports rehabilitation. With no plans of slowing down, Christa is geared up to obtain her master's degree before entering the workforce in 2010.

Ginger Tanton

Ginger Tanton, daughter of Karen and Gerald Tanton of Lawrenceville, is on Harvard College's Class of 2009 roster this fall. Excelling in academic, extracurricular and personal strengths secured Ginger one of the 1,650 spaces out of 20,000 applicants for the freshman class. A recipient of more than a dozen honors and awards, Ginger plans to study cognitive linguistics. A member of the National Honor Society, Spanish and Math Honor Societies and the Varsity Academic Team, Ginger also enjoys volunteering in her community. With a desire to eventually work for the United National World Food Program, Ginger is on the fast track to reaching her goal.