A second chance - that's what many students say they're grateful for as they wrap up a year long program.  

More than 50 students graduated from the Staten Island Youth Adult Borough Center Tuesday. 

The alternative education program gives high-schoolers who are falling behind in class, the opportunity to earn a diploma.  

Students say they've come a long way, but are proud they were able to see it through. 

"I thought I was never gonna do it honestly. But now I'm here so it's a great feeling, it's like a big weight lifted off my shoulders," said Graduate David West. 

"There was a lot of times where I really didn't want to do it but I stuck in there and was like hey 'I gotta do it for my mom," said Graduate Kenyan Callender.

The program is run through the Department of Education and the Staten Island Center for Interpersonal Development.