I first heard about YAC through a friend who was applying. After learning more about what YAC does, I became interested because it seemed like a way for students to have a real voice in improving our community.

I want to help make Marshall a better place for young people. I think students often have ideas and perspectives that adults do not always hear, and I like the idea of working with other students to identify issues, develop solutions, and help make a positive impact. I am also interested in learning more about leadership, community service, and how decisions are made that affect local youth.

I would bring creativity, organization, and a willingness to listen to different viewpoints. Through robotics and serving as Secretary of my school's Fashion Club, I have learned the importance of teamwork, communication, and following through on commitments. I would like to use those skills to help represent the voices of students in Marshall.

To me, community service means helping improve the place where you live and making a positive difference for other people. It is about contributing your time, effort, and ideas to support your community, even when there is no direct benefit to yourself.

One experience that stands out to me was volunteering to do face painting for children at a community event. It was a small role, but it gave me the opportunity to interact with families and help create a fun experience for younger kids. That experience showed me that community events depend on people who are willing to volunteer and contribute.

I am interested in community service because I believe even small efforts can have a meaningful impact. Through YAC, I would like to become more involved in serving Marshall and helping identify ways to improve opportunities for local youth.

I believe mental health and academic pressure are closely connected for many students. One thing I think adults sometimes underestimate is that teenagers care more than people realize. Many adults see teenagers having fun with friends or spending time on social media and assume they are not taking life seriously. In reality, most teenagers want to do well, build a good future, and make the right decisions for their lives.

School today is different than it was for our parents and teachers. Students face pressure from grades, extracurricular activities, social expectations, and thinking about college at a younger age. I have seen friends become overwhelmed by academic pressure and feel like their grades define their success. When that happens, it can have a negative impact on their mental health.

If I could help address this issue, I would start by listening to students. Adults often want to help, but they may not always understand what students are experiencing. I think it is important to create opportunities for students to share their concerns and feel heard. Sometimes the best first step is simply helping people understand each other's perspectives.

I would also like to encourage programs and activities that help students build connections with one another. High school should be a place where students feel supported, accepted, and comfortable asking for help when they need it.

As a member of YAC, I would want to help bring student perspectives to community leaders and encourage conversations that improve understanding between adults and teenagers. I believe students can make a positive impact when they are given a voice and the opportunity to be heard.

I understand that being a member of YAC is a commitment and that attendance and participation are important. If selected, I will make YAC a priority and plan my schedule around meetings and activities whenever possible.

I am involved in robotics and serve as Secretary of my school's Fashion Club, and I may participate in additional activities in the future. Because of those commitments, I have learned the importance of organization, communication, and time management. If a conflict ever arises, I would communicate early and make every effort to stay involved and contribute.

I am applying because I genuinely want to participate, not simply because it would look good on a university application. If selected, I would be committed to being an active and dependable member of the council.

This is my first time applying for YAC membership. One thing that is important to me is making sure people feel heard. I believe everyone has a voice and that their perspective deserves to be considered, even if others do not always agree with them.

I think this belief comes from seeing how different people can experience the same situation in completely different ways. Sometimes adults underestimate what teenagers are dealing with, and sometimes students misunderstand adults as well. I believe many problems can be improved when people take the time to listen and understand each other's perspectives.

I also enjoy creative activities such as art projects and decorating my room, because they allow me to express ideas in my own way. While I enjoy being involved in activities and leadership opportunities, I also try to be thoughtful and open to feedback. I am always looking for ways to improve and learn from other people.

If selected for YAC, I would bring that same mindset of listening, learning, and helping others feel represented.