Opinion

By: Luke Gregory Boudewyns

June 6, 2025

If you’re dreaming of exploring New York City, don’t hesitate, go for it, even if you only have a day!

I recently flew into the New Jersey/New York area for a short trip to see Shakira in concert at MetLife Stadium. With just one day to experience the magic of NYC, I set out to make the most of it, determined to soak up the city’s energy while sticking to a reasonable budget. I managed to see some of the best sights, and so can you! Here’s my account of how I squeezed an unforgettable New York City adventure into just 24 hours.

I started my day by leaving my accommodation in Weehawken, New Jersey, and heading to El Carretero, a Colombian restaurant, for breakfast. A hearty plate of perico con jamón y pan con café, scrambled eggs with ham, toast, and coffee, is a terrific choice, providing plenty of energy for the day ahead. The portions are generous, and at around $12 per plate (or $25 for two), it’s a fantastic deal.

From there, I took a ride share to Hoboken for about $10, where I caught a ferry to New York City from the Hoboken Transit Terminal. At just $6.50 per ticket, it’s an affordable and scenic way to cross the river and begin the day’s adventure in the Big Apple.

The ferry ride offers stunning views of New York City as it glides down the Hudson River, stopping briefly at Paulus Hook Pier on the New Jersey side before making the final crossing. Once docked, it’s just a short walk to the New World Trade Center Memorial Site.

To get there, cut through the Brookfield Place Shopping Center, and as you step outside, take a moment to look up at the towering One World Trade Center before crossing the street. At the 9/11 Memorial, you can pause to pay your respects at the sites of the former Twin Towers, now transformed into a moving and beautifully designed tribute.

From here, cross back over West Street to find the Citi Bike Rental station along the bike path. You have the option to rent a pedal bike for the day at $25 or use the Lyft app to grab one for just $5. Alternatively, you can take a leisurely walk along the Empire State Trail toward Battery Park, admiring the city’s diverse architecture along the way.

A quick tip: bring a refillable water bottle! You’ll want to stay hydrated as you explore, and filling up along the way is a great way to save money and cut down on unnecessary expenses.

When I visited, the park was closed, but that didn’t stop me from making the most of my time. Several vendors along the path were selling boat tour tickets, with prices around $43 per person for the shorter tour. This one-and-a-half-hour excursion is absolutely worth it, it takes you along the Hudson River, under the Brooklyn Bridge, and past the Statue of Liberty, offering incredible views of Manhattan from the water.

After the tour, hop on a bus heading north to the docks at Pier 79 in Hudson River Park. If you need a restroom break, don’t worry, there’s one on the tour boat. Once you arrive at the pier, there’s only a short wait before the next leg of the adventure begins.

For the best experience on the tour boat, I recommend grabbing a spot in the back on the lower level. It’s quieter, away from the crowds, and out of earshot of the speakers—so you won’t have to endure the tour guide’s long-winded rambling or awkward jokes.

Position yourself on the port side (left when facing forward) to enjoy stunning views of the city as the boat glides along the Hudson River. From this vantage point, you’ll truly appreciate the scale of New York City, watching Manhattan unfold from a dynamic, ever-changing perspective on the water.

As the boat approaches the Brooklyn Bridge, get ready for a perfect photo opportunity as you cruise underneath. If you’re lucky, a friendly staff member lingering at the back of the boat might even be willing to snap a picture for you—just ask nicely!

Now, go to the Starboard side of the boat, because this will be the perfect side to get an approaching view of the Statue of Liberty. You can go up-top if you’d like, but you won’t miss anything if you stay in the back on the lower level. The top deck is full of people and there really aren’t any spaces along the railings to take good pictures, as sections are roped-off for those that are willing to pay a photographer to take their pictures. The boat will rotate around once it reaches the Statue, so once the boat slows down to start rotating, grab a spot on the Port side to secure your space, because at this point, some people will wise up that they might get better pictures on the lower level. I found this to be the perfect space to take pictures while the boat rotates. You may need to be a little assertive to keep your space, but the pictures will make up for any potential social awkwardness you may experience.

Sit back and take it all in—the boat ride back to port is a perfect time to relax and watch the city skyline drift by. You can choose to head inside to the lower level and grab a seat by a window, or stay outside, leaning on the railing as you soak up the views.

Once the boat docks, free shuttles will be available. I recommend hopping on the bus to Times Square—just follow the signs for the one headed down 42nd Street. While there won’t be many photo opportunities on the ride, this is a great moment to rehydrate and scout out a place to eat.

I ended up stopping at Shake Shack, mostly because it was the most convenient option—the bus turns along 8th Avenue, and there’s a location right at the corner of 44th Street. It was actually my first time trying it, and I was pleasantly surprised! The restrooms were decently clean, and their strawberry lemonade was a refreshing pick-me-up. Fuel up—you’ll need the energy for the walk ahead!

Once you step out, turn right onto 44th Street, walk a block down, and then take a left onto 7th Avenue—you’ve officially arrived in the iconic Times Square! If you’re a budget-conscious traveler like me, you’ll appreciate all the incredible sights that come at no cost. For me, the most breathtaking moments were simply admiring the towering skyscrapers contrasted against the vivid blue sky.

Continue heading north along 7th Avenue, and before long, you’ll reach Central Park. While I’d always heard it was large, seeing it in person made me realize just how vast it truly is—especially if it’s your first time visiting. Take your time soaking in the scenery as you move toward your next stop: The Metropolitan Museum of Art. I chose to walk along the eastern side, which offers a picturesque view of the lake. And of course, if you glance up, you’ll catch glimpses of more stunning architecture framing the park.

If you’re feeling tired or short on time, flagging down a bike taxi is a great option to get directly to the Met. I was able to negotiate a ride for $30 (plus tip), and the brief rest was much needed. After a bit of friendly conversation, the driver dropped me off right in front of the museum.

Entry prices may vary, and while I don’t advocate dishonesty, there are ways to lower the cost. For example, if you’re a student or a local, you might be able to secure additional discounts. I was able to get a student discount with my Metro State ID, bringing the cost down to $17.

And just like that, you’ve arrived at one of the most eclectic art museums in the world! Take your time, explore, and enjoy yourself. If you’re searching for a good cup of coffee, though, skip the café in the American Arts section—it wasn’t worth the stop. Instead, I highly recommend checking out the Egyptian Art, American Arts, and Greek and Roman Art sections. The medieval collection is impressive as well.

This is the perfect place to slow down, take a seat, and soak in the surroundings. If you’re traveling with a partner or a friend, it’s an ideal spot for quiet conversation and a moment of relaxation before continuing your adventure.

From this point, you have several great options for continuing your adventure. New York City’s public transportation is incredibly easy to navigate, with bus and subway fares just under $3 per ride, and you can simply swipe your bank card to hop on.

One option is taking the M4 bus down 5th Avenue to the stop right in front of the New York Public Library. You can choose to step inside for a quick visit or walk one block west to enter the subway station at 42 St-Bryant Park. From there, catch the F Line to the Delancey and Essex stop, where you can swing into the historic Essex Market for some fantastic food.

I had the chance to attend a Sofar Sounds rooftop concert in this area, but if live music isn’t your vibe, there are plenty of nightclubs and intimate venues to cap off the night in style.

When it’s time to head back to New Jersey, it’s a simple ride on the subway. Find the nearest station entrance, take the F Line to the 34 St-Herald Square station, and transfer to the PATH Line, which will bring you straight to Hoboken, New Jersey.

Congratulations! If you followed this route, you’ve experienced an incredible full day in one of the grandest cities in the world. Now, grab a ride share to your hotel or accommodation and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

By: Ryan Wolfe 

May 26, 2025

As we reach the midpoint of the 2020s, technological advancements continue to reshape the world at an unprecedented pace, leaving a sense of change that has lingered since the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2024, 3.62 million babies were born in the U.S., adding to the over 50 million children currently in school. Since 2000, approximately 100 million new lives have entered the country—each destined to shape its future.

Yet, many fail to acknowledge the significance of the younger generations. Gen Z and Gen Alpha are often dismissed for their digital immersion and unconventional aspirations, but underestimating them may prove costly. As these generations come of age, the stereotypes placed upon them could backfire, leaving today’s adults unprepared for the world they will inevitably build.

A person’s mindset shapes their reality, often leading to self-fulfilling prophecies. When someone internalizes negativity and expects failure, they may unintentionally set themselves up for it. Our energy is deeply influenced by the people we surround ourselves with, the media we consume, and how we respond to life’s events. If adults and parents continuously label today’s youth as a “lost cause” with no future, how can they expect them to thrive in the long run?

The 2007 release of the first iPhone revolutionized communication, paving the way for email, texting, social media, and now virtual reality. Older generations helped develop these innovations, yet some express frustration at the youth fully embracing them. As children navigate the world through available technology, concerns arise—especially as 48% of teens in a recent survey reported that social media has a “mostly negative” impact on their age group. This shift in youth culture continues to spark debate among parents and adults in the 2020s.

While technology offers countless benefits, younger generations need proper guidance in today’s increasingly polarized and misinformed world. Social media has become both a distraction and a source of fleeting dopamine, leading many kids toward isolation. Parents must stay attentive to their children’s behavior and step in when necessary. The internet should never replace real parenting, and as AI becomes more integrated into daily life, we must remain cautious and mindful of its long-term effects.

Many worry that AI will replace teachers, but that concern overlooks the irreplaceable role of human connection in education. Teachers and coaches provide empathy, adaptability, and real-world experience that machines cannot replicate. As curriculums evolve, AI struggles to keep up with nuanced changes, raising ethical questions about its place in shaping young minds. Unlike a human mentor, AI often presents binary solutions, overlooking the complexities of learning and the world itself.

We must trust the next generation as they rise to shape the world, becoming leaders in every field. Dismissing them for their reliance on technology ignores their potential to innovate and push society forward. The world is always evolving, and just as past generations built the foundation for our lives, we owe it to today’s youth to support their journey rather than retreat into regression. The future isn’t distant—it begins with the choices we make today.

By: Paulo Cabral

May 8, 2025

Everyone, at some point in their lives, has probably imagined what it would be like to have a business to call their own. A bakery, a clothing store… There are so many possibilities for entrepreneurship, and so it is almost impossible not to be at least curious about the idea of starting a company.

Who hasn’t imagined the freedom of being their own boss? Whether it’s chasing a lifelong dream, seizing an unexpected opportunity, or striving for a fresh start, the appeal is undeniable. However, embarking on this journey comes with its share of risks that must be carefully weighed before taking the leap and bringing the vision to life.

Entrepreneurship comes with a demanding workload, and it’s crucial for anyone venturing into this realm to fully understand the less glamorous challenges that come with it.

It is common for knowledge of the bureaucracy of the business world to discourage those who are thinking about having their own business, but it is important to remember that the advantages, in the long term, are much greater.

Despite the strong desire to become a business owner, many hesitate to take the first step toward their dream simply because they’re unsure where to begin. Here are some essential tips to help you kick-start your entrepreneurial journey:

Market research and competitive analysis

Evaluate your market segment, identify the unique advantages you can offer your customers, and study consumer behavior in depth. Conducting this initial research is essential for minimizing long-term risks. To better understand your target audience and the market, consider asking yourself questions like:

· Is there a high demand for your products or services?

· Is the market very competitive in your segment?

· Who are your main competitors?

Write a business plan

After deciding on the type of company you want to establish, creating a business plan becomes essential. This plan acts as a roadmap for structuring, managing, and growing your business. There’s no universal formula for drafting it—what matters most is ensuring it aligns with your unique goals and requirements.

Obtain financial resources

Choosing how to finance your business is one of the earliest and most critical decisions you’ll face, as it directly impacts your company’s structure and management. Start by determining the exact amount you need. Then, explore your options—whether it’s self-funding, seeking investors, or securing a loan.

Still searching for motivation to bring your entrepreneurial dream to life? Here are some compelling reasons that might inspire you to take the leap:

· Freedom

Owning your own business gives you the autonomy to make decisions, shape your life’s direction, and take control—rather than working under someone else. Beyond deciding how to handle tasks and manage processes, being your own boss offers the freedom of flexible working hours, enabling a healthier balance between work and personal life.

· Financial independence

When you run your own company, the potential for profitability is boundless. If building wealth is your goal, there’s nothing stopping you from achieving it. You’re creating something with immense growth potential, and with every milestone, the value of your enterprise continues to rise.

· New skills

Managing your own business often requires shifting roles throughout the day, taking charge of various departments to meet demands. This dynamic approach helps you develop valuable skills, refine your strategic vision, and drive new initiatives to ensure growth and success.

· Building your own legacy

Starting your own business allows you to share your story, create jobs, positively impact your community, and build a lasting legacy for your family. The small victories you achieve today lay the groundwork for your family’s future. A successful business is not just an inheritance—it represents the dedication and accomplishments that shaped its success.

The moment of truth

Running your own company is incredible, yes. But unfortunately, contrary to what many people think, it is not just about a life full of perks. It is time to face the not-so-perfect side. Just don’t get discouraged, it is better to know now than when the company is already up and running! Check it out:

· Owners work a lot

Running a successful business requires dedication and relentless hard work. In the early years, vacations, weekends, and days off will likely be rare luxuries. As the owner, you’ll pour your energy into ensuring your vision thrives—because the success of your project rests in your hands.

· You will think about giving up

Thinking about giving up doesn’t mean you’re failing—it’s not a sign of weakness, despite what some might say. When you feel this way, take time to recharge in whatever way works for you. Whether it’s listening to music, relaxing, or resting, it’s important to acknowledge your fatigue or fears. This acceptance will help you discover fresh perspectives and new solutions.

· Problems will arise

You will have to deal with a lot of bureaucracy, with many unforeseen events and demands, and this part, unfortunately, never ends. What changes is that, over time, you will become an expert in solving these problems. You can work to prevent them, but they can still arise at any time. And when they do come, you must remember that no matter how scary they are, you will learn to deal with them.

Okay, so how do I launch my product on the market?

The launch can vary depending on the type of product, industry, or target market. Therefore, you should create a customized plan for your own project. This is an effort to bring a new solution to market that must be carried out in coordination with several departments, including sales, marketing, and customer service.

Did you know that, according to Harvard Business School, over 30,000 new products are introduced to the market annually, but nearly 80% fail to meet their goals? Why is the failure rate so high? Most likely due to a lack of research, proper planning, testing, and other critical steps in product development. Let’s guide you through how to avoid these pitfalls and set your project up for success.

· Be clear about who you are targeting

It is impossible to reach your audience if you do not know them. Therefore, defining your ideal customer is the basis of any effective launch strategy. All the information you gather about your customer will be vital to determining the exact product you should launch, what messages will resonate with the consumer, and which channels will be most effective in spreading your message and ultimately generating sales.

· Identify an unmet need

Once you have a strategy in place about your target market, it will be easier to determine which product is best suited to solve your customer’s problem. Describe your product, detail its key features, how it addresses a real market need, and why your audience should choose it over others.

· Research the market

Any business offering a solution similar to yours is considered a competitor. Conducting market research allows you to analyze their offerings and identify opportunities to set yourself apart. This helps you establish a distinctive brand that captures attention. Additionally, studying market pricing strategies lets you refine your own approach to stay competitive.

· Build a strong supply chain

Contact suppliers and distributors early to effectively manage your supply chain and establish a logistics distribution strategy that ensures sufficient supplies to meet demand.

· Develop a strategy to market your new product

You will be ready to define which marketing channels, promotional tactics and communication strategies are best for successfully launching your product. This could include creating a landing page on your website, promoting on social media, collaborating with influencers, launching press releases, advertising campaigns or email outreach.

· Evaluate and optimize

Evaluating the outcome of your launch is vital for identifying areas of improvement. In the weeks and months ahead, assess your progress by gathering feedback, reviews, and mentions from customers and industry experts. If your launch has been successful, don’t rest—continue fine-tuning your strategy to achieve even greater results.

Believe

As a business owner, dreaming big is both necessary and empowering. However, it’s important to stay grounded and ready to face the challenges that come with it. Your hard work and dedication will pay off in time, but success unfolds gradually, at its own pace. Be patient, embrace the journey, and trust that your efforts will ultimately be worthwhile.

To undertake is to bet on yourself.

By Zi Yuan Wong on April 30th, 2025

For many people, engaging in conversations with someone who has a stutter can feel challenging, as they might perceive the interaction as awkward or difficult. As someone who stutters myself, I deeply understand the struggles of trying to connect with others while navigating this condition.

I’m not sure exactly when it started, but I began to notice moments where my thoughts and speech felt out of sync—like when the lyrics of a song didn’t align with the melody playing in my mind. Whenever I spoke, reaching the final word in a sentence became a struggle; my mouth would freeze, leaving me unable to complete my thoughts. I’d find myself with my jaw hanging open and my mind suddenly blank.

I began to notice this frustrating pattern where my words wouldn’t come out right, and something about it just felt…wrong. It seemed like my thoughts couldn’t keep pace with the speed of my speech. Watching others converse effortlessly, I couldn’t help but wonder why they could speak so naturally while I struggled—tripping over words, with some refusing to emerge entirely. To make matters worse, certain words would get stuck in my throat as I tried to pronounce them. They were clear in my mind, yet I found myself frozen, unable to push out even the first syllable.

Through a journey of self-reflection and frustration, I finally discovered the term that encapsulated what I was experiencing: stuttering. I can’t pinpoint when it started, but I remember it being a part of my life since middle school. Since then, I’ve tried countless strategies to improve my speech—whether it’s adopting long, deliberate pauses like President Obama or attempting breathing exercises from online articles. While these efforts have helped to some degree, any encounter with stress tends to unravel my progress, leaving me grappling with my familiar stuttering patterns once again.

“It wasn’t until I started reading about others living with their stutters that I had a realization: ‘Sure, I stutter—so what? I get along just fine despite it, and I’m still a (relatively) normal person.’ I mean, even Former President Biden had a stutter, and he managed to live a successful and fulfilling life well into his 80s. Honestly, on good days, my stutter barely even surfaces—especially when I’m talking to people I’m close with or communicating behind a screen. Maybe my stutter is more tied to the nerves I feel when speaking face-to-face with strangers?

Stuttering has certainly made conversations more challenging for people like me, but I’ve learned to navigate life just fine despite it. There are even days when it hardly bothers me at all. Over time, I’ve come to accept stuttering as a part of who I am—for better or worse. To anyone else living with a stutter, know that you are not alone in the journey of expressing yourself. Our voices, regardless of their cadence, are just as valid and meaningful. We are not defined or diminished by this condition.

By Paulo Cabral on April 25th, 2025

Whether it’s out of fear of an economic crisis or to ensure a more comfortable retirement, knowing how to save is extremely important to combat economic uncertainties.

Saving is a valuable skill that can lead to financial security and peace of mind. Setting aside a portion of your salary and spending less than you earn are fundamental principles for building a solid financial future.

This is more than just a practice; it’s a lifestyle. Having a financial reserve is essential. The ability to save a portion of your salary not only provides a safety net, but also opens doors to achieving long-term dreams and goals.

But for many people, knowing how to handle money may not be an easy task. And that’s where studies on financial education come in. It’s a critical subject that deserves a place in school curriculums, as living outside the financial system is nearly impossible. The aim is to empower individuals with the knowledge, tools, and resources they need to make informed and confident financial decisions. 

The importance of financial education

Financial education allows us to make choices that take into account what is truly important in our lives and the things we want to achieve soon. This is what leads us, for example, to walk past a store that is on sale without buying anything because we are saving money to take a course that will be good for our professional career.

Let’s take the example of buying a house, which is usually the most important financial decision of our lives. If you need to take out a mortgage, financial education will help you make the best decision regarding the amount, term and type of mortgage:

– Understand the impact of macroeconomic factors like inflation on interest rates and how these changes affect your mortgage and repayment capacity;

– Embrace responsible practices, such as seeking professional advice and comparing various options; and

– Exercise caution and prudence when navigating financial decisions.

These criteria will help you make better decisions in this case and in many others, contributing to your financial health.

Knowledge and Understanding

According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development – OECD, financial literacy is defined as “the knowledge and understanding of financial concepts and risks, as well as the skills and attitudes needed to apply them. Its objective is to make effective decisions in various financial contexts, improve the financial well-being of individuals and society, and promote participation in economic life.

Recent research conducted by the OECD reveals that, globally, only 33% of adults have adequate financial education. Levels of financial literacy are low even in developed countries, which continue to lack the notions required for their full development.

What to do to improve your knowledge about money

To gain better control over your finances, it’s essential to understand how money flows through your daily life. We work, earn, and spend—but how does it all truly come together? Taking practical steps can help clarify this cycle. Here are some tips to guide you:

• Track your monthly income to know exactly how much money you earn.
• Record all your expenses to get a clear picture of where your money goes and how much is spent each month.
• Identify your major expenses and explore opportunities to save.
• Determine a fixed amount you can set aside each month to build an emergency fund.

Sometimes, it’s difficult to recognize behaviors that may hinder your financial wellbeing. Watch out for key warning signs, such as:

• Spending your entire paycheck within days and struggling for the remainder of the month.
• Being unsure of exactly how much you earn or where your money goes each month.
• Picking and choosing which bills to pay while postponing others to the next month.
• Relying on family or friends for emergency financial support.

Developing good financial awareness begins with understanding your habits, behaviors, and limits, while pinpointing areas for improvement. Once you have a solid foundation, you can explore various financial tools and products to identify those that align with your needs, lifestyle, and stage in life.

If you’re striving for a more secure financial future, consider taking the following steps:

Start slowly: It is not necessary to set aside large amounts immediately. Starting with a small percentage of your salary and gradually increasing it can make a big difference over time. Consistency is key.

Live within your means: Though simple in concept, spending less than you earn can be challenging for many. Evaluate your spending habits, cut back on non-essentials, and prioritize needs over wants.

The 50/30/20 Rule: This approach recommends allocating 50% of your income for necessities, 30% for discretionary spending, and 20% for savings. This helps strike a balance between enjoying the present and planning for the future.

Build an emergency fund:  A dedicated fund is essential for managing unexpected expenses, such as medical bills, car repairs, or job loss. It reduces reliance on loans or credit cards during emergencies.

Enable freedom of choice –  Savings grant you the flexibility to make life-altering decisions, such as switching careers, starting a business, or traveling the world. Financial security gives you the confidence to seize opportunities.

Enjoy peace of mind – The true value of saving lies in the security it brings. A financial cushion provides the reassurance needed to navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence.

Beyond individual benefits, financial education fosters informed, socially responsible citizens. By understanding how personal financial decisions influence community well-being, individuals contribute to a healthier and more cooperative society.

As we have seen, knowing what to do with your money is essential so that you do not feel like you are groping in the dark when dealing with your money: it is the tool that will help you understand the different processes related to the world of finance, so that you can have more control over your life, make good choices and achieve your dreams. Having financial education means having more control over your life, making good choices and achieving your dreams.

Ultimately, having financial education is like holding a guiding light—it empowers you to navigate the world of money with clarity, control, and confidence. Whether it’s achieving your dreams or building a brighter future, the right financial tools can help you take charge of your life.

By Kaia Ryden on April 9th, 2025

Underage drinking has alarmingly become a common occurrence in today’s society. Beyond the evident health risks, it can severely impact academic performance and personal relationships. Recently, the U.S. Surgeon General issued a public warning about the detrimental effects of alcohol, emphasizing that there is absolutely nothing positive about it.

Mainstream media significantly influences the perception of underage drinking. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok often showcase parties and people enjoying themselves while drinking, creating an undeservedly positive image. What’s usually absent from these portrayals are the negative consequences, such as vomiting, blacking out, impaired decision-making, and loss of bodily control.

Teenagers might see this and think, ‘I want to try this; it looks fun.’ Unfortunately, this can sometimes be the first step toward a downward spiral. This is particularly worrisome because adolescents are still in critical stages of development, and excessive or continuous drinking can severely disrupt this process.

Underage drinking is more commonly seen in high schools and universities, but it’s not unheard of among middle schoolers. As a university student, I frequently observe underage drinking. I understand the desire to unwind after a tough exam or during the weekend, but that doesn’t justify breaking the law. There are numerous ways to relax and have fun that don’t involve alcohol or drugs, though these alternatives are rarely highlighted in today’s society and media 

Peer pressure and manipulation are also common in party settings and universities. Many individuals start drinking because they see others doing it and having fun. Some are coerced by friends, while others simply want to fit in.

Universities present a more complex situation. Some individuals can legally drink and purchase alcohol, which makes it easier for underage drinkers to obtain it. Liquor stores are aware of this, often establishing their shops near campuses. Additionally, bars and clubs are usually located nearby, further facilitating access.

This brings us to the issue of fake IDs. With so many underage individuals wanting to drink but unable to legally purchase alcohol, obtaining a fake ID becomes the next best option.

This allows them to enter clubs and bars mentioned earlier, and if they have higher-end fake IDs, they can even purchase alcohol. If the bar sells alcohol to an underage individual, it becomes liable and risks getting busted or shut down, whether the infraction was known or unknown.

Continuous use of any substance can (and usually will) lead to addiction eventually, and alcohol is no exception. 

Addiction is a serious matter, not to be taken lightly. It can consume one’s entire life and is incredibly difficult to manage, even for a fully grown adult. Many adults grapple with their addictions while trying to provide for their families and maintain full-time jobs. In severe cases, the addiction can lead to job loss or abusive behavior.

For a teenager or young adult, dealing with an addiction while still in school and undergoing development can be devastating for both their life and future. Falling behind in studies can hinder academic progress, and although there might be opportunities to catch up, the immediate grip of addiction can obscure the urgency to do so.

Not only can drinking lead to addiction, but the U.S. Surgeon General recently issued a warning about the potential health risks of alcohol. In this 19-page advisory, the Surgeon General identifies alcohol as the leading preventable cause of cancer in the United States. If you haven’t already heard or read about this advisory, I invite you to check it out here.