365 Days Later...
I remember it like it was just a few hours ago. When I got the phone call informing me that I was going to be the next Northern Lights Student of the Year, the emotions and thoughts that went through my mind were unbelievable. I was excited to work with a group of talented young adults that shared the same passions in life as I did. I honestly couldn’t wait to see who I was going to work with and how the year was going to go. Walking into NLAB pre-conference training, the room was filled with positive energy. I knew right then that it was going to be a great year, and I was completely ready to dive head first into it.
Each and every member of the board brought a special quality. There was never a dull moment during our meetings. We had nerf gun wars, fireworks on New Year’s Eve, bonfires, lots of games, and even more laughs. Even with all the fun and laughs, we accomplished a lot of work. We updated our Reality Check program, and we planned conference in a new location. It was a highly successful year.
This NLAB made me proud. Because of them, I love this organization more than I did when this journey started. They have their heads on right and they aren’t afraid to voice their opinions. I want to thank each and every one of them for their hard work, time, dedication, patience, and brilliant ideas. You’ve represented your school and the teens in Northern Lights well.
All of this said, I am very sad to see this journey come to an end. Walking out the Civic Center doors on the last day of conference will be emotional, but I couldn’t be happier with what we’ve accomplished this year. I will walk out the doors with lifelong friends. I learned so much from this experience, and I know that it has made me an overall better person.
I want to thank everyone who has supported me along this journey, especially my parents. Thank you Northern Lights SADD for a rockin’ year, and best of luck to the next NLAB and Student of the Year, I know you guys will make me proud.
Sincerely,
Amanda Dinger
2014–2015 Student of the Year
About the Author
Amanda was the 2014–2015 Northern Lights SADD Student of the Year. She graduated from Dakota Prairie High School and is attending college at Grand Canyon University.
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