Throughout my life, I am able to recall numerous experiences that “stand out” in my mind as significant. However, one experience stands out above all others; the anticipation and excitement of being selected as a member of the Arizona Students Against Destructive Decisions Student Leadership Council in June 2006. At that time, the organization's most commonly known name was Students Against Driving Drunk, which grew to become the nation's dominant peer prevention and youth education organization with thousands of locations in middle schools, high schools and colleges across the country. Throughout most of my elementary and middle school years, I was exposed to Students Against Destructive Decisions programs, both at the school level and through my father's employment as a therapist. I vividly remember attending or helping out at many of their health fairs and events. After school or on weekends, as an elementary school student I handed out stickers, informational pamphlets, and sometimes candy or balloons to attract other students and/or their parents interested in the healthy information at our booth. I became known as one of the youngest and most tenacious volunteers. You couldn't pass by our stand without a sticker or a balloon and, certainly, useful information. I distinctly remember Arizona's Student Against Destructive Decisions coordinator, Jessica Smith, approaching me in 2006 and asking if I would be interested in applying for a position on the Arizona State Students Against Destructive Decisions Leadership Council . I didn't have to think twice about the decision to run. I felt that the Student Leadership Council was an organization that I would be proud to be a part of. I get it......middle of paper......suicide and violence. Today, I am even more aware of the obstacles that teenagers, including myself, face as we continue our journey to college. Finally, as a member of the Student Leadership Council, I have developed meaningful relationships with peers, advisors, and community leaders, some of whom share my views and those of others whose views are completely different from mine. I have been able to grow tremendously through my association with Students Against Destructive Decisions. Therefore, it is my desire to continue volunteering for the Student Leadership Council of Students Against Destructive Decisions, even after I graduate from high school, because it has been a truly meaningful and rewarding experience. I hope to one day facilitate a Students Against Destructive Decisions program in my community, as there is an urgent need for positive adult mentors.