I can still recall the excitement I felt when I had finally received the pink paper that had confirmed I had finally received my license. After finishing all my driver's education requirements and spending hours in the classroom learning when and when not to merge across dotted and undotted lines, I had earned the privilege to drive. Despite the excitement I felt, I also felt a sense of dread. The classroom had taught me the weight of responsibility driving entailed. One wrong move can not only change the trajectory of your life but also a random stranger for the better or worse. This was a concept heavily stressed in my drivers ed course and remains one of the most crucial parts of the curriculum. Although, the reality of these consequences fully set in the second my hands reached the wheel of my 2013 Subaru. I was driving back from a closing shift, and my hands were shaking profusely. I can recall almost melting a hole through my speedometer with how intently I was staring at it, making sure I was not even 1 mph higher than the speed limit. I think my fear translated to caution and helped me get home safely despite the fact that halfway I stopped on the side of the road in realization that I had no lights on. This is mainly due to my inexperience on the road and pure anxiety about everything relating to the car's functions. Since it was almost pitch dark, this simple mistake could have been catastrophic, but thankfully there were no repercussions.

 Students must know the depth of the actions when on the road and how detrimental they can be. It is our responsibility as drivers, especially as young drivers, to abide by the protocols of the road, as our inexperience makes us more prone to easily avoidable mistakes such as not having your lights on. These small mistakes can in turn lead to large and life-changing consequences. For example, many young drivers struggle with overconfidence on the road. This belief that one is constantly in control and completely knowledgeable of the road and its surroundings can lead to detrimental consequences. Such as crashes at high speed, fender benders, and many more driving mistakes. Young drivers must acknowledge that they're not just driving a car; they're driving a potential weapon that can be the final indicator of life or death, meaning that it takes time to acclimate to the car and gain adequate experience to be able to drive confidently in a vehicle. Whether that means being more accustomed to the car itself in relation to its speed, blind spots, width, brakes, and control system. Adjusting to the area in which you're driving, such as the contrast between urban and suburban drivers. For example, driving in New York, you're likely to encounter more aggressive drivers, whereas in Virginia, you might experience more passive drivers. Or it must be adjusting to the roads in general and becoming a new driver learning how to build reaction times, remembering and applying road rules, and becoming a comfortable driver. This can all be built with experience, time, and precaution; students must continue to learn and grow while gaining experience on the road. These precautions and dedication to driving will help drivers become better drivers and reduce their risk on the road. 

Additionally, students can invest and pay more attention in their driver ed classes so there is no second-guessing when it comes to whether they understand or know the rules on the road, which can consequently greatly decrease driver risk. I have observed that the more dedicated a young individual is to learning the curriculum of driver's ed and the more they pay attention to it, the better the driver they are. For example, I and all my friends shared a driver's ed class, and all but one of us paid close attention to the lessons. The one friend that slept through classes and slacked off on assignments was the first and only individual of the friend group to get into a crash. Proving the importance of individuals' attentiveness to the course. While classes and curricula can advocate for the cruciality of safe driving and being attentive to courses while dedicating time to gaining experience and not being overconfident while driving. Communities and public outlets can also advocate for safe driving among teens. This can be done through driver safety campaigns. More strict requirements for drivers ed classes. Additionally, students and parents are better educating themselves and others. 

Reflecting on my first-ever drive and the amount of anxiety that pulsated through my hands alongside the forgotten headlights, I've come to realize the responsibility and privilege that come with driving every day. All young drivers have their own personal experience and struggles, but through learned attentiveness, respecting the road, constant practice, and proper education, students have the capability to be great drivers. The roads can seem unpredictable, but with the proper awareness and car, a student can navigate them in a safe manner that not only protects themselves but also others.