When I was 15 years old I began dating this boy, things quickly turned for the worst. Throughout the time that we dated I became subjected to domestic abuse. I was mentally, physically, emotionally, and verbally abused for 6 months. My mental health was at an all time low, I had low self-esteem, and all the trust I had in others was gone. That was until my Junior year of high school came along, that boy and I broke up and I was part of Hope Squad as I've always loved to learn how to help my mental health and help others with theirs. One of my friends was in that class and had convinced me to go on the field trip with him to a Youth Summit called "Healthy and Unhealthy Relationships" At the time I was still in denial with what I had endured. While I was there I learned that what I had gone through was all abuse, I knew what physical abuse was but didn't know what mental, emotional, or verbal abuse looked like. While at the Summit I talked to an older gentleman and explained to him how much of an impact they made, it truly was a sign from God, and if there was a way to become part of the group (Teens Against Dating Abuse). I was accepted into the program and over the years they've helped me find my voice and build my confidence. They've helped me find a healthy outlet by sharing my story on their podcast, being a keynote speaker at the Youth Summit, and even speaking on the local news. Who would've thought one field trip was enough to change one person's life forever? When I was 16 I had the mindset of "I'm just the girl who was abused" now I know I AM A SURVIVOR!