I didn't think I was. I wasn't sure that I was ready to finally act on all the ideas in my head and passion in my heart. But I am. We're on the third day of the summit and though exhausted I have never been more inspired to create and maintain change.

As I expected, I'm one of few who have expressed interest in AIDS and HIV relations. Unfortunately, leaders in our country consider AIDS an epidemic that remains outside of our borders. I doubt 1.5 millions known persons living in the U.S. with HIV counts as an outside issue. However, it's the people who are most like me who are most likely to be affected. Black women, between the ages 18-30, account for the highest percentage of new HIV infections in the United States. I personally do not want to bury one of my friends or relatives before I do something about this.

I'm interested in raising AIDS awareness and responsible living among young adults on my campus and in my community, and ultimately, globally. I would also like to advocate for more efficient health options for individuals infected with HIV within the area. I believe that we cannot truly attempt to fight the destruction of this disease and its influence on political, social, and economic systems worldwide until we accept the fact that it is much of a problem at home as it is abroad. Please, do not let AIDS knock on your door before you choose to acknowledge its presence, and work towards its elimination.