The evidence that substance misuse prevention is a better tactic than treatment compelled me to add this project to our curriculum for the past several years.
I gained many skills while working on this project. I learned the true risks of underage drinking. I have faced several temptations with alcohol. I learned that staying home is better than going out and drinking. This project not only helped me understand the risks, but it also motivated me to not give into temptation.
After you were done presenting [the Brain Science of Addiction interactive lesson], I got to hear one of my favorite sounds. The students were all clicking away on their keyboards typing up their takeaways, and it was so wonderful to hear them making connections.
I know that my students gained valuable insights about the science of addiction. I also know that the research they did to prepare for their presentations was eye-opening to them. I know that putting the final project together gave them a chance to review important concepts they'd learned in the previous steps.
It has been a pleasure participating in the contest. I think this is a wonderful program that needs to continue to educate young people.
