Teens and young adults constantly face tough decisions in relationships, college, and job searches. In fall 2018, we asked our followers about the big decisions they faced. We received many unique responses. Our team selected the top 3 responses.

Amaya, age 18, showed the difficulties in deciding whether to attend a 4-year university. She is deciding whether to continue a program that would guarantee a job as a behavioral health technician or to attend a 4-year college. If she continues the program, she will have to work full time while attending school. On this track, she will graduate from college in 6–7 years. She likes the idea of being a behavioral health technician. Amaya’s story shows that a 4-year university is just one path after high school. Each person must choose the right path for them.

Madison, age 17, discussed how views on big decisions can change when faced with tough situations. She was planning her future and where to attend college when her sister died. She hopes to honor her sister by reaching her dreams and completing her bucket list. Madison’s story shows how the people we love and lose can affect our decisions.

Raylea, age 15, shared six categories of decisions faced by youth: school, friends, parents, dating, addiction, and self-worth. Her biggest decisions are where to go to college and what major to study. She offered decision-making advice to teens and young adults with her 5 steps to a solution: consider what is at stake, assemble the facts, identify the alternatives, explore pros, cons and risks, and choose the best path to take action.

We are excited to have received different and unique perspectives from our 3 contest winners. We hope to hear more from our followers soon! Follow Youth Engaged 4 Change on Facebook and Instagram for the latest on contests and opportunities.