Being involved in Teens Against Drinking and Driving (TADD) has helped me make a difference and enjoy my time in high school.

TADD has taught me a lot. When I first joined as a member of publicity I didn't know what I was getting into. I started to really enjoy what I was doing. I found myself working hard and going the extra mile to get the job done right. It felt great to be a part of such a good organization.

Near the middle of the year, one of our Senior Co-Chairs resigned. I was eager to step up to the plate and become Junior Co-Chair. With my new position came new responsibilities. I had to make presentations and seminars at different events. This was the first time I was able to feel comfortable talking in front of people. I went from hating public speaking to thriving on the exhilaration of getting in front of a crowd. This year, as Senior Co-Chair, I enjoy doing presentations even more.

I joined TADD because I wanted to help raise awareness about alcohol related crashes, and drinking and driving. Only 10% of teens aged 16-19 drink and drive. Sure, that doesn't seem like much, but even 0.1% is too much. Through alcohol education programs like TADD students are getting the message and making smart decisions. I like to think that I am helping to keep the number of drinking and driving incidents down, and I think I am. After seeing one of TADD's presentations or activities maybe a student will remember something and decide to take a cab home instead.

Through TADD I have opened up many doors for my career and my life. If it wasn't for this great organization I wouldn't be who I am today. Being involved in something you feel very passionate about can definitely change your life, because it changed mine.