This book, which is intended for high school students, explains how to scout out alternative learning opportunities available to high school students and how to select, prepare for, and make the most of alternative programs. The book begins with a definition of alternative learning and a brief overview of the many types of alternative learning opportunities available to students in and outside their local communities. The following topics are discussed in the book's eight chapters: (1) volunteer programs (benefits of volunteering, volunteering and school, volunteering abroad); (2) courses outside high school classrooms (dual enrollment, summer options, early admission, distance learning, other ways of learning); (3) getting or being a mentor (benefits of mentors, choosing a mentor, making the most of a mentorship); (4) job shadowing a professional; (5) finding an internship program (the nature and benefits of internship, applying for internships, completing an interview, making the most of internships); (6) becoming a youth apprentice; (7) summer camp, adventure, and overseas travel programs; and (8) study abroad (16 reasons to study abroad, choosing the right program, making the most of study abroad). Each chapter contains guidelines; tips; and lists of publications, World Wide Web sites, and organizations providing additional information. (MN)