Teens rally, hear inspirational words at S.C. State House

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) - About 1,700 high-school seniors from nearly 40 schools visited the South Carolina State House on Tuesday for the College and Career Decision Day rally.

News 12′s Mikel Hannah-Harding was one of the emcees.

“Whatever you choose, just make the most out of your life,” the First Alert meteorologist told the teens. “Enjoy this moment being at high school graduation. ... This is a major milestone in your life.”

The event began begin with a march down Main Street and ending with a celebration event on the State House steps.

Mirrored after National Signing Day and organized by the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, this event recognizes and applauds students who are committing to higher education enrollment, beginning a training program, joining the military or entering the workforce.

“You’ve finished high school, you’ve made it through, you’ve done the hard part. You’ve got that behind you, you’ve got that in the bank. All you have to do now is make a decision,” Gov. Henry McMaster told the teens. “Whatever you want to do, we are here to see to it that you get the opportunity to go as far in any direction as you want to go.”

College and university representatives set up tables at the celebration rally on the State House north steps and lawn and were joined by representatives from the business community and state government.

CSRA students came from Allendale-Fairfax, Midland Valley and Wagener-Salley high schools.

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