DR. WALLACE: I'm now a freshman in high school, and the problem I've had my whole life is starting to become a bit more of a challenge for me.

For whatever reason, it has always taken me time to compose my thoughts and to be able to speak in public, even just answering a basic question. I speak slowly and sometimes haltingly, so I don't participate much in class discussions. The good news is I'm a solid B grade student, and I learn material well and do well on tests and all written assignments.

I have had to do some oral reports back in seventh and eighth grade, and because I was able to fully prepare for weeks, if not months in advance, I managed to get through those assignments.

But now in high school, I'm expected to participate in class discussions, as in some classes, the teachers have mentioned it's part of our grade. There's much more interaction than I ever had at the lower levels of my previous education.

Do you have any suggestions that might help me respond better in class, even on short notice? I simply don't have the time to prepare and organize things in advance very often, as the class discussions move quickly. — A Decent Student Overall, via email

A DECENT STUDENT OVERALL: I can appreciate your situation, as I've come across individuals in my career who were challenged by a similar affliction you've mentioned here.

My first suggestion is to start by making a few notes on a clean piece of paper at your desk while the discussion is going on. I'm not talking about writing out sentences or anything like that, just a simple word here and there or a very brief phrase. Having a keyword or two or a few brief phrases in front of you is something you can look at during the discussion. Granted, there's not a lot of time for preparation regarding classroom discussion, but knowing the kernel of what you're going to say in advance is likely going to be quite helpful.

Also, pick your spots well! By this I mean, raise your hand on the subject or topic when you feel especially confident, you'll have something to add to the discussion comfortably based on your previous studies and knowledge.

Then, when it's time for your participation, or when you wish to raise your hand, don't rush your words. You might even wish to say out loud to the teacher and the class that it sometimes takes you a bit longer to form your words, but that you'll do your very best to communicate effectively. Just saying that out loud in advance of addressing the topic at hand may have a positive effect on the entire room. You can then exhale and relax, knowing that before you address the topic, everyone understands that you're going to be replying a bit slower. Secondly, human beings have great empathy for the most part, especially when they know in advance the reason something is different. Being bold enough to mention your situation and stating that you'll do your best is sure to garner you courteous empathy and understanding, which absolutely is well deserved. From there, glance at your phrases or the words you've jotted down and confidently deliver your comments without feeling any need to rush.

ARE WHITE CLAWS MILD ENOUGH TO TRY?

DR. WALLACE: I'm a senior in high school, and I've noticed that my best friend has started drinking the occasional White Claw beverage here and there on weekends. My friend tells me that it's no big deal because this drink is gluten-free and therefore healthier than others. Apparently, it also has a low-calorie content and a mild, fruity flavor.

My friend has tried to get me to sample it, but I've been very hesitant. Is this drink as safe as my friend seems to think it is? — Not So Sure, via email

NOT SO SURE: First and foremost, White Claw contains alcohol, and no senior in high school in the United States should be drinking it. Forget about the fact it's gluten-free, forget about the low calories and forget about the fruity flavors.

Alcohol is alcohol, no matter what form it comes in. You are wise to be hesitant and not sure about sampling it. My advice is to be sure that you won't touch it and announce to your friend that you're sure you will not be drinking alcohol at this point in your life. Not only is it illegal for both you and your friend, but you may be setting yourself up for future problems by engaging in alcohol consumption at this point in your life.

Dr. Robert Wallace welcomes questions from readers. Although he is unable to reply to all of them individually, he will answer as many as possible in this column. Email him at rwallace@thegreatestgift.com. To find out more about Dr. Robert Wallace and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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