Teenagers should not always follow their idols. They should think twice before taking drugs. They have to be strong to resist temptation regardless of their curiosity or peer pressure. Drug abuse can seriously damage their health and ruin their future.

What we can still learn from Sakai is that she bravely admitted her guilt and did her best to turn over a new leaf.

Sarah Tse Chau-shong, CCC Heep Woh College

Exams have their uses

Many students don't like exams. They hate all the studying and revision. Although exams are hard, there are many benefits to having them.

First, exams promote good reading habits. At the same time, students develop efficient methods to revise what they have learned. Second, lessons cover many topics so exams help students gain a clearer idea of what they have been taught. Knowing that they must take exams, students focus their attention on digesting this knowledge.

As a result, students can build up a good knowledge base to help them face the challenges of the future.

Gladys Yau Hoi-ying , Tsuen Wan Public Ho Chuen Yiu Memorial College

Fame not all it's cut out to be

All teenagers have their own goals and dreams. Many want to pursue fame and wealth.

In recent years, there have been many competitions to give teens an opportunity to step into show business. Young people are lured by the idea of being worshipped.

But what they don't understand is the pressure that celebrities face from the press and the public. Some young stars 'lose themselves,' or behave badly, or ignore their families and friends.

If they knew the true price of fame, teens might pursue less public, but no-less-rewarding, careers.

Heidi Chan Hiu-kwan, Christian Alliance S. C. Chan Memorial College

HK stars' missing quality: talent

When people think of a world-class pop diva, Beyonce or Mariah Carey might come to mind. How about naming just one Asian pop diva? South Korea's BoA, perhaps?

Hong Kong is a world-famous city, but when it comes to music, we simply don't shine. We had talented singers in the past, like Leslie Cheung Kwok-wing and Anita Mui Yim-fong.

Today there are many pretty faces, but few singers can even hold a tune. They simply don't have the training in their craft like others have in places like South Korea.

Priscilla Chan, Shatin Tsung Tsin Secondary School

Luck has little to do with success

I am writing in response to the star letter 'Discipline is key to success' by Shoaib Hussain (Young Post, February 24). I agree that man can control his destiny. That is why schools all over the world have set up rules which can help control students.

Nowadays, people are asking youngsters to have a wide range of skills rather than concentrating on one area of expertise.

There are so many distractions in the world today that many of us give up on our dreams.

To be successful, it is essential to control our mind and try our best. That's why US President Barack Obama is regarded as a success. Success is much more about focus and discipline than luck.

Kikki Chan, Fung Kai Liu Man Shek Tong Secondary School