“As small of a difference it may be, it is still very satisfying to know that it is some difference.”

Amritha Ramesh

“I have been on teen council for two years. We collaborate on a variety of issues affecting teens in San Ramon and serve as liaisons for the teen community to the city. I wanted to be on teen council to be a representative for teens to the city. I felt like through teen council you can have a real tangible impact on your own community. Not only have I made new friendships with others on the council, but I have had the opportunity to communicate and collaborate with many community leaders, city council, and other important committees and people. Teen Council has definitely taught me to be more proactive. As a teen-led initiative that is part of the city, we are expected to have a handle on everything, unlike most other activities for teens. To get things done, one has to be responsible for their own initiative from start to finish. You need to be very proactive, which is a skill that isn’t often applied at school. As small of a difference it may be, it is still very satisfying to know that it is some difference.”