Words of Encouragement from YAC Alumni Heber Diaz.

Heber Diaz

2010-11 YAC Member

My Reflection on YAC

Before becoming an actual YAC member, actually, YAC-family member, I walked into the Office of the State Superintendent of Education wearing a tie that was actually too tight for my neck in an attempt to impress my interviewers. When the interview began, I soon realized how relaxed it would be, especially since John, a current YAC member at the time, who was interviewing me, was wearing cargo shorts and a T-shirt. Although attired differently and seeming out of place, John, along with Andrea, one of the YAC coordinators, made me feel very comfortable and I knew then and there, from the interview alone, that the YAC was something else.

After being accepted into the YAC I became excited, but mostly for the monthly check that I would receive. That soon changed as the meetings began. My excitement to attend the meetings was no longer because of the juicy piece of paper with numbers and my name on it. It came from the amazing energy and excitement that every YAC member possessed. Not only did I create friendships that will last for a long time and relationships with mentors that will help me in my future endeavors, I have also learned to become a leader. With the various topics that we learned about, from STI’s to nutrition, I have become a leader along with my fellow YAC members for the Youth of the District of Columbia. As Kendra Hill, a YAC member and close friend of mine, once said, “The YAC is the gateway for the youth of DC”. The YAC has become one of those building blocks that create the person that I am. It has shown me the importance of reaching out to others and that community volunteerism is extremely rewarding.

One thing that I will take away from the YAC that I am extremely grateful for is my new open-mindedness. I have not stepped out of my comfort zone; the YAC has helped me leap far over it, as I have done things I never thought I would. My experiences and skills gained in the YAC will help me propel forward in my future education, life goals and personal development. All the coordinators and YAC members have been a blessing and I know that I will never forget this wonderful experience. Kudos goes to all of you for being such a great team in our pursuit for a better youth in DC. I will miss you all!