When I was in the 5th grade, I was selected to interview and test for a place in the gifted and talented 6th grade program. Only 26 students from the entire school district were to be awarded the coveted seats in this special class, and I desperately wanted to be one of those students. As the day of my interview approached, though, my nerves began to get the best of me. And sure enough, during the interview I was barely able to speak a complete sentence, much less sound like a girl who belonged in an academically gifted classroom. And the testing? I don’t think I even spelled my name right. Needless to say, I didn’t make the cut.

It would take a great portion of my time as an adult to figure out that you don’t have to be in the gifted class, ace the SAT, have a high IQ, or be a member of Mensa to be smart. Smart is an attitude, a choice, a lifestyle. Smart is obvious when you see it, and you know it when you feel it, and you can see it and feel it—and best of all, own it—in all kinds of ways. There’s book smart, of course. And there’s street smart, tech smart, fashion smart, word smart. There’s people smart and self smart, emotional smart, and even body smart. There’s enough smarts for all of us to have a piece of the action!

With August being back-to-school month for many, we thought it would be a good time to focus on how to “Be Smart,” in all kinds of ways. Inside you’ll find articles on how to be smart about saving for college, setting smart goals, and taking on the characteristics of smart people (I’m a firm believer in the adage, “Fake it until you make it!”). And as always, you’ll read about a number of fascinating—and smart—women who live and work here in the Lake Norman area. I hope you enjoy their stories as much as I have! out stars without makeup—that’s always good for an attitude boost!

Dana Jordan, Editor