Agenda packet — Dublin City Council, June 6, 2023 (part 6 of 9)

March 16, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
It is my pleasure to tell you about an amazing volunteer, Samridhee Bhatt has been a volunteer at the Dublin Library since October 6th 2022, but has been an integral workforce to the library and is part of my leadership team for the Teen Advisory Group. I have worked with many teen volunteers as the teen librarian at the Dublin Library and my previous position, and Samridhee has stood out as an exceptional volunteer. She has helped with many different programs; our Teen Advisory Group, children’s crafts, Grab and Go Craft creation, and Family Board Games to name a few. She has completed 69.5 hours with the Dublin Library since becoming a volunteer.

Samridhee has been an invaluable asset to our volunteer program and the Teen Advisory Group (TAG).

She is polite, friendly, and welcoming to everyone that she meets. She has helped out at many family programs, assisting in craft preparation, and helping run various stations during our many events as well as helping lead the Teen Advisory Group meetings as part of the leadership team.

Besides being an extremely capable volunteer, Samridhee is a very creative person and has created flyers and craft instructions for some of our Grab and Go Crafts for children. She has many great ideas for programming in the library that will not only benefit youth, but also draw more individuals to the library from the community. She has been working with the TAG to try and create teen led programming at the library as well. Samridhee is a stellar example of a teen volunteer. She has enriched the lives of many library members, and has been an exceptional ambassador for the library. Samridhee will be a wonderful addition to Youth Advisory Committee. She will use all of her talents to enrich her experience, and to be an active member.
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Page 2 of 2 ends

I am very pleased to write a letter of reference for Samridhee, and recommend her highly. If you require any more information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Susan Gardner
Teen Librarian
Dublin Library
200 Civic Plaza
Dublin, CA 94568
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1. -- Completed Application Form-- At least one Letter of Recommendation The City of Dublin is looking for enthusiastic middle and high school students who live in Dublin to serve on the City’s Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) for the 2023-2024 term, which runs from June 1, 2023 to May 31, 2024. Application deadline is Friday, March 24, 2023, at 5:00 PM. LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

Qualifications and General Information
Must be a Dublin resident, enrolled in middle, junior, or high school during the 2023-24 school year-- YAC Information Letter Application
This online application is the only available application. Use this online form to submit responses and to upload recommendations.

Letter of Recommendation
Your application must include at least one letter of recommendation from a non-family member (i.e. employer, counselor, teacher, coach, etc.) and must be signed. The letter of recommendation should be submitted with the application and must be received by the application deadline; otherwise, the application will be incomplete.

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Chloe
Last Name*
Brandt
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5772 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
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City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* As a current member of the committee, I have had the opportunity to talk and work with so many amazing people in our community. As a teenager, I donâ€™t feel there are many ways to make the voices of my peers heard, but this committee is an exception. YAC is a great model for other cities on how to include youth in making impactful decisions. YAC is all about addressing the issues that youth face and finding ways to better them, which is exactly what I think we need more of in this world. I want to bring about positive change and show my fellow teens that local government is a great way to do that. I feel like the work that YAC does really makes an impact, and I would love to be a part of this group for as long as I can. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am a very outspoken person. I enjoy public speaking and love discussing ideas with people who have different perspectives.

Compromise is one of the skills I am working on, but I have been getting a lot better at it over the past school year, since high school is a place with many different perspectives. I have learned to better address and work towards correcting my faults. I am also a very organized person. I plan ahead and am very thorough in my thought process, diligently thinking through every action. I am very responsible and manage my time well, making sure to delegate my time and enthusiasm to the things in my life that I find important.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I know I, personally, have struggled with mental health a lot in the past few years. This issue among teens has already been talked about within the Committee, but I think it is such a large and overarching topic, that it can be addressed again. The Mental Health Forum is a great starting point. As a part of the Ad Hoc Committee for the Mental Health Forum this term, I believe it is an important and meaningful event, and I want to make sure it stays an annual event in our city. I think another way to connect with more teens is to possibly have this event in a school setting or in a more interactive format. I really donâ€™t want youth to be given lectures on the adultâ€™s perspective on their struggles, but rather, to be included in discussions and activities to bring awareness. Teens donâ€™t want to be talked at. They want their voices heard. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently involved in my schoolâ€™s Leadership program. We plan and create events for the school such as dances, rallies, fundraisers, and school bonding activities. I am also a part of a musical theater company, at which I volunteer 15 hours a week. My mother owns a small business that provides shave ice and snacks at parties and festivals. I help her out quite a bit during the warmer months. All of these do take time from my schedule, but I am very organized and I have always been able to set aside time for important things. YAC is a very large responsibility, but one I will take wholeheartedly. So, in summary, yes, I will be able to devote my time to meetings and activities. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* As a part of the committee this year, and as a part of high school leadership, I have learned that one of the largest struggles in planning events is advertising. This is especially difficult when marketing to teens. One thing I would like to say, though, is that the youth in our community are exceptionally driven. At the high school, we have many students that want to make a difference in our world. If we, as a city, want to get teenagers interested and involved in these events, we just have to find ways to reach them. When a school wide email was sent out to all Dublin High students about applying for YAC, many people became interested in the committee. If we apply this same strategy to our other events, and possibly make more enticing visuals, we can reach a larger youth audience.
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* This most recent YAC meeting I have attended was the meeting on March 22nd, 2023. One of the items that I was interested in was the Benefit Concert Ad-Hoc Committeeâ€™s update on their plans. After listening to their progress, I volunteered to help set up the event.
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7. Provide at least one signed letter of recommendation from a non-family member (i.e. employer, counselor, teacher, coach, etc.). The letter of recommendation should be submitted with the application and must be received by the application deadline; otherwise, the application will be incomplete.

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Chloe Brandt - Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)
Application 23 -24.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 943
To Whom It May Concern:

I am honored to be writing a letter of recommendation for Chloe Brandt. Chloe is a very bright, determined and motivated student, as well as a person of tremendous talent and character with many leadership skills.

I have had the pleasure of knowing Chloe this school year,, and her determination and work ethic is something to be admired. Chloe is constantly looking for not only ways to improve herself, but always taking ownership in making others around her better. Chloe's ability to work with others really allows her to be a mentor for many students in our leadership program.

Throughout the time I have known Chloe she has worked well under pressure and with others.. She continues to stay positive, encourages others daily, and is inclusive in everything she does for our program. Her ability to be solution oriented really allows not only for our class to meet its goals but exceed them as well. Chloe is constantly looking for ways to not only help her fellow classmates, but fellow school members and community members as well. Chloe truly exemplifies what being a mentor and role model is all about.

Chloe is also very much respected on campus as well. Her ability to focus in and out of the classroom has allowed her to be a go to student on campus and is an ambassador for teachers when there is a new student on campus, reaching out to students who may need help, or just being a great all around student.

I highly recommend Chloe for your committee, her determination and goal setting is a great example of what she can bring to your program. Her leadership skills will leave a lasting 944
impact with not only our school, but our community as well even after she graduates in a few years.

Sincerely,
Michael D’Ambrosio
Leadership Teacher
Dublin High School
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Kaushik
Last Name*
Chandolu
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5799 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
946
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee to tell the City of Dublin the programs that teens need. As someone who volunteers to teach middle schoolers and incoming middle schoolers many skills ranging from coding to boy scouts, I have a lot of expertise in understanding the needs and wants of current and future middle schoolers. This valuable insight would be crucial to YAC next year as it gives an idea of what not only the current generation of teens want, but also what the future generations of teens want in the future. Not by insight on what middle schoolers are valuable, but by insight on high schoolers would be very valuable as well. This is due to the fact that as a part of the Envirotech, Help Youth Code(2 high-school clubs that help out the community), and Boy Scout troop 904, I understand what teens that are making change in change need from the city of Dublin. As a member of YAC, I plan to use my valuable insights from these experiences to help the city of Dublin make sure teens such as myself get the most out of Dublin's programs and activities. Not only will I do that, but I will also assist with planning and running youth activities using my expertise in planning and running events that I got from being the Assistant Senior Patrol leader and Den Chief in Boy scouts where I ran and led many troop meetings, campouts, and troop events. I also want to be a part of YAC, so I can gain experience with working with the city of Dublin, so in the future I can contribute to the city of Dublin more as a part of other commissions, councils, and committees in the future as an adult. I have always wanted to give my inputs to Dublin programs and activities especially programs related to the library or big activities like the Saint Patrick's day, but never knew how to do so until I met Mahi, who was on YAC in the previous term, and told me all about YAC which peaked my interest and led me to be very keen on joining the program. I believe as a member of YAC, I can help improve the quality of Dublin programs for teens and future generations of teens for years to come. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I possess many skills that are crucial for a YAC member. One of these skills is communication. This is probably the most important skill needed for a YAC member. This is because not only will YAC members be communicating with other members of YAC, but they will need to communicate with many other teens and ask their input on Dublin programs and activities. Not only that but they must be able to effectively communicate these inputs they have received back to YAC. This is why communication is so important, and I have developed this skill through participating and helping plan projects and events in high school clubs like Envirotech and Help Youth Code. I have also developed this skill through planning countless activities in Boy Scouts where I had to communicate plans, ideas, and instructions to different groups of people like adults, the scout leader's council, and troop members. Another skill that is essential for a good YAC member is commitment and time management. A good YAC member must be able to effectively manage time and give as much time needed to get work done. I am very committed to everything I do, 1 example of this is my commitment to boy scouts from where I got the hours I needed for the Bronze Presidential Volunteer Service Award(which requires 50 hours). My planning skills that I have developed through the clubs and activities I have done have helped me perfect my time management skills allowing me to put in more than enough time into all the activities I do. 1 way I like to manage my time is to use the pomodoro technique in order to get more work done, in a short amount of time, without burning out. It is one way I am able to manage my time much more than others.

Another very important skill for a YAC member is planning. As a part of YAC, it is almost guaranteed that a member must do some sort of planning. Other candidates may not be very good at planning, but I have lots of experience planning events for boy scouts, planning project timelines for Envirotech, and planning lessons for Help Youth Code. One more skill that is very important for a YAC member is teamwork. YAC is not a solo mission and members must work as a team to get anything done.

In boy scouts and in my other clubs, I have to work together with other people in order to plan events, lessons, or activities.

These experiences have allowed me to understand what it takes to be a good team player. This is why I believe these 4 skills are crucial in any YAC member and I believe that I exemplify them very well. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I believe 1 major teens face this is a lack of information. Many teens do not know about the sheer amount of opportunities that they have at their disposal. There are so many programs and activities the city of Dublin has for teens however, most teens do not know about most of them. This is where YAC comes in. I believe YAC should advertise these programs more and get them out to more students, especially younger students. These programs would be much more popular if more people knew about them. Another big issue that teens are facing is that they are too stressed. In high school many teens take lots of AP courses and do many extracurricular activities to try to get into a good college after high school. This causes many of them to be incredibly stressed and busy. To combat this I believe YAC should help in starting relaxation workshops and time management workshops in order to improve the mental health of high schoolers in the city of Dublin. I believe doing this in schools is the best place to do these workshops, but doing them at the library is also an option. One group of teens I would like to highlight are teens with disabilities. This group is often overlooked and there are rarely ever programs for them made by the city of Dublin. As someone who has experience volunteering to work with kids with disabilities, I see how these kids have far less opportunities and programs available to them compared to other kids. I believe that YAC can help the City of Dublin organize workshops and programs for teens with disabilities, and give equal opportunities to kids without disabilities. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I will still be involved in Boy Scouts, Envirotech, and Help Youth Code next year. In Boy Scouts, I spend time planning and executing troop meetings and troop events like hikes or campouts or service projects. In Envirotech, I spend time using raspberry pi's to help automate the new greenhouse this club is building behind DHS and I made working on building this greenhouse as well. In Help Youth Code, I spend my time teaching middle schoolers python and enabling them to code bigger and more complex projects that they wouldn't normally do in school. I will also spend some time volunteering to work with kids with disabilities from time to time with different organizations. Here I do many things such as play with these kids, teach them new skills ranging anywhere from social skills to coding. I do spend a lot of time doing these things that I love, as I am committed to my activities, but that doesn't mean that I won't have plenty of time for YAC. I would be easily able to dedicate 10- 15 hours per week for YAC and I am willing to dedicate more time for YAC if needed. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* My plan to get other teens involved in the community and in teen events is basically advertising. Most teens aren't participating in many community events because they don't know about it. However, when they do know about them, most of them would come to these community events. This is why Dublin's best way to get teens more involved in the community and in Citysponsored events is to advertise these events. There are 3 ways that YAC could advertise. The first way is to make a flyer and post it on YAC's and the city of Dublin's social media pages plus the social media pages of YAC members to promote upcoming events and activities. Now this is probably not enough, but there are more ways we can advertise. The second way is to have YAC members talk about upcoming Dublin events in-person with their events. If these events are very interesting and appealing to a large group of people then the existence of these events would spread via word of mouth. The third way to advertise is to partner with schools to advertise. You can have schools announce and talk about these events with the students attending there via the video bulletins or announcements from the loud speaker. You could also partner with high school or middle school clubs to help run the event, which would bring in a lot of teens to the event as clubs usually have many members. It would also be smart to target specific groups of people for certain types of events. Like advertising a concert to music lovers. We could identify these groups by looking at clubs or classes related to whatever event we are advertising for.

Then we could advertise to those specific clubs or classes and get more teens coming for the amount of advertising we did.

Another way we could try to get more teens to come to these events is by making an incentive for these events to encourage teens to come to community events. These incentives could be free food, small prizes, or even just offering volunteer hours to those to volunteer. These are all the ways I would get more teens involved in community and City-sponsored events. Another thing about me is that I have experience in executing almost every way I have listed, allowing me to be a big asset to YAC if I am chosen.
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting due to me not knowing about any opportunity to join those meetings. I definitely would have attended one of those meeting if I knew of an opportunity where I could have attended.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Chandolu, Kaushik Letter of Rec.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 949
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Vanessa
Last Name*
Chang
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5822 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
951
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to apply for this position due to the fact that, other than Splatter and the St Patrick's Day Parade, I don't believe there are any big events that allow the whole community to interact with each other. In the almost 12 years Iâ€™ve spent living here, there have been many instances where Iâ€™ve heard people say that once they graduate they want to leave and never look back. When I questioned them about it, they would tell me that, while it could be fun, most of their time spent here was always uneventful. And it got me thinking, do I really want me and my peers to leave this city regarding it as â€œboringâ€? After all the time we spent growing up here? The answer is no. I want to be able to help our city being a place and time people will recall fondly and remember as fun and exciting. To provide even more great memories for when some of us eventually leave and go out into the adult world. Additionally, I think there are many events that can be organized that can fix the aforementioned issue, as well as celebrate more minorities through participating in more cultural celebrations, or just celebrating different identities that are underrepresented. Our city is already a wonderfully diverse place. However, I believe that setting up more opportunities to allow us to connect, learn, and celebrate other cultures will greatly benefit and excite my peers. Many of us are very connected to our own cultures, and it would be nice if we could both share our own experiences as well as learn from each other and build a bond based on mutual acceptance and understanding. Furthermore, I believe that being a part of YAC will be a beneficial experience which can help me exercise and improve my problem-solving and leadership skills. Overall, my main reason for applying to become a member of the City of Dublin YAC is to create a fun and memorable environment for us teenagers and help us forge more connections with others.
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* The skills that especially make me a strong candidate for the YAC is my ability to work with others and my emotional intelligence. To start off with teamwork and cooperation, I am able to work both as a leader and follower depending on which the situation calls for. I will listen to what other people are saying and do what they need me to do, however if the group is a little lost, then I will not be afraid to step up to try to figure out what we need to do. Additionally, I will always make sure that I do my fair share of the work and do not burden others by wrongly pushing anything onto them, largely due to my morals as I know that I need to be accountable for my own work. Iâ€™m also always open to helping others where they need it. I wonâ€™t exactly do everything for them, but I will answer any questions people have and help them understand what they need to do and how to do it. In regards to emotional intelligence. I am quick to gauge how others are feeling, and once I know the context and situation, I am able to understand and empathize with why they are feeling the way they do. This will be very helpful in the YAC as that way we can understand what will and wonâ€™t appeal to other teenagers and why they would feel that way. That information can be used to help develop our events and activities and make sure that they will actually interest the youth of Dublin.
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
One of the biggest issues teenagers in Dublin are currently dealing with is the anxiety and depression that comes from the immense pressure of doing well academically. As the years passed by, the culture surrounding grades and GPAs only became more and more toxic, especially in the Bay Area. So many have been conditioned to believe that any grade under an A or B means failure and that any GPA that isnâ€™t above a 4.0 isnâ€™t good enough. This leads to many teenagers feeling intense anxiety and fear at the prospect of not getting an A and eventually beating themselves up about it if their grades drop to a B.

Unfortunately, but expectedly, a good amount of the teenagers in our community have also fallen victim to this mindset, creating a rather dreary atmosphere at our schools as many students are either tired from studying or disappointed by themselves. While it will be difficult to remove layers upon layers of this culture, we can start to chip away at it by focusing on the mental state of our teenagers first. There are many ways to tackle this issue such as holding de-stressing events where teenagers will be able to relax together with activities such as reading, playing games, eating, or just simply sitting in a comfortable space and chatting with others. A program could also be organized where students who may not have others to study with could sign up for a study group catered to a specific subject, as it would alleviate the stress of trying to understand and memorize the material all by themselves. Another issue amongst teenagers is the lack of representation for different identities. Our city is on the diverse side, however, one aspect that is often overlooked is the diversity in gender identities and sexualities within our city. Especially among teenagers, there is a large population of us that are part of the LGBTQ+ community. However, teenagers are still grasping at crumbs for any semblance of representation, with even just rainbow socks being exciting. Our city will put up a progress pride flag, but there is so much more we could do to come together and celebrate the LGBTQ+ population of our city! We could hold pride parades and festivals, similar to how the St. Patrickâ€™s Day celebrations are done. And if there is a concern with homophobic members of our community, it could be subtly done and advertised as a â€œSummer Celebrationâ€ where the items sold will be pride-themed, but the decorations used could be the colors of different pride flags arranged in a certain way that it wonâ€™t seem to be any different compares to your run-of-themill decorations. Hosting an event like this will not only make LGBTQ+ teenagers feel heard and seen in Dublin, but it could also set a good example for the younger generations and erase the normalized homophobia that currently exists. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently involved in extracurricular vocal and art classes. In my vocal class, itâ€™s very standard. I learn songs and will prepare one to sing in front of a handful of other students in their parents. In my art class, I am currently working on making a realistic-fiction comic book, telling the story of characters who I have developed myself. I plan to continue both of these activities next year. Additionally, I plan to plan an ROP class, which I understand is academic, however there will be many opportunities for me which I plan to take that will allow me to be a teacher assistant to an elementary school teacher, allowing me to interact with younger children as well as help me use and practice public speaking and my leadership skills. I will be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities for the most part. There may be times where my classes and YAC activities overlap, however my schedule is flexible and I will always be able to reschedule my classes in order to take part in the activities. As for meetings, I will definitely have enough time to be present at them. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* There are many ways to reach other teens and convince them to participate in and interact with the community. The first way is social media.Itâ€™s a pretty straight forward method, with a few teenagers of varying friend groups, social media can make word travel fast and the existence of any activities or events will, with time, reach the majority of teens in our area. The second way is through word of mouth. While social media is effectively quickly spreading information, people may end up looking at a post or an online flier and moving on with their day without thinking back on it. However, when this information is spread face to face, people will become more inclined to make plans to go should they have the time. When peo0le are asked head on whether theyâ€™re going to go to an event or not, naturally their curiosity will be piqued. And since they were practically invited by whoever asked to go, theyâ€™ll consider going more seriously compared to if they just saw the information online, which leads me to my next point. How to catch people's attention through flyers and online posts. We would need to utilize creativity and make a poster thatâ€™s colorful and eye-catching, but in a way where it will still remain aesthetically pleasing to the eye.

This will allow viewers to associate the poster and the event with a more positive connotation, and will likely make them more interested in joining. Additionally, it would help if there was another aspect aside from the event itself to incline others to join, such as promises of food. While this may seem superficial, itâ€™s a good strategy to lure people in and have them be able to experience how fun an event can be, which will throw them into a rabbit hole and convince them to return the next time something similar is hosted.
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* Unfortunately, I have not recently attended a City Council meeting. However, I will look forward to it if you will have me. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Vanessa Chang LOR - Google Docs.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 954
March 23, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

It is an absolute pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for Vanessa Chang. I have had the pleasure of getting to know Vanessa over this school year, as her criminal justice teacher. Vanessa is a conscientious student who works well both independently and as a member of a group.

This past week, students were tasked with a group project in which Vanessa really stood out as a top performer in her group. It was apparent that she put in the most effort of anyone in her group. Vanessa ensured that the group’s presentation met my expectations. She proofread slides and added details her group missed during the presentation.

Vanessa is interested in being a member of the Youth Advisory Committee because she sees a need in her community. In a conversation I had with her, she said: “I think there are many events that can be organized to celebrate more minorities through participating in more cultural celebrations or just celebrating different identities that are underrepresented.” She has a nuanced perspective on how her community can be even more inclusive than it already is.

Vanessa is a young person with high moral character who cares about the world, and the people who live in it. She strives to put her best effort forth, always. If you wish to discuss Vanessa’s qualifications any further, please contact me via email at .

Best regards,
Nakish Harri
Nakisha Harris
ROP Criminal Justice Instructor
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
955

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Irene
Last Name*
Chi
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5836 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
956
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 12th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* In my current term serving in the YAC, I absolutely love it! I am very fond of the environment in which we have created, where everyone in the committee has a voice and a valuable opinion; I love the rapport weâ€™ve built, as weâ€™re all very friendly with each other to the extent where we feel beyond a committee and more like a community. In addition, Iâ€™ve also had the opportunity to fulfill many volunteering duties in partnership with the City, and Iâ€™m grateful for each and every one. I sincerely hope that I can continue volunteering on behalf of the City and keep giving back to the community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am considerate and mindful; I always listen first before interjecting with my own opinion. I am always receptive to new ideas, making sure that I take all of the factors into account objectively before agreeing or disagreeing. I am never one to slack off, as I put full effort into everything I do, whether it be volunteering at an event or inserting an opinion on a crucial matter. On another note, I am also very friendly and welcoming; I always take the initiative to make sure everyone feels welcomed and included. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I am aware that many teens are struggling with mental health, especially now in a time where we stress the importance of high academics, often overlooking personal well-being in the process. I believe that we could arrange more events along with the Youth Mental Health Forum; though we already have a few events going on at the present, we could expand our horizons and implement more events that teens are inclined to participate in. For instance, I attended the Dublin Mental Health Forum last year, where various people were able to share their unique experiences of handling their mental health, and only one participant was a teen in high school. As I am fond of the concept of this event, I suggest that we have more events similar to this, but led by exclusively teens so that other teens are more inclined to participate. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently involved in a wide variety of activities and extracurriculars, and will continue these going into next year. I volunteer frequently for the Dublin Senior Center, Kids Against Hunger and as well as various events in association with CSF (California Scholarship Federation) and NHS (National Honors Society). I also volunteer on behalf of Dublin Key Club, which I served as Project Chair for last yearâ€™s term. I am also involved in my schoolâ€™s theatre program, and I play piano competitively. In addition, I will also be working a part-time job, but it should not interfere. While my schedule is pretty busy, I will always devote time to attend the majority of, if not all of the YAC meetings as I have managed to balance my schedule and attend all of the general YAC meetings for this term.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Since I have a lot of connections to outside organizations, I was thinking that I could get them in contact with the YAC and have them possibly advertise city related events through their own events. This would gain more exposure, as a wider audience will inevitably bring more attendees. In addition, it can also be simple as telling a friend and inviting them to volunteer with you, who will in turn, invite their friends, and so on.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* The latest meeting Iâ€™ve attended was the YAC meeting on 3/22/23 as a committee member. We received information regarding two outside organizations, as well as updates from the Ad Hoc committee. The meeting was relatively short in comparison to other meetings that have been held this term, albeit packed with information beneficial to the committee. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Irene C YAC recommendation letter 23-24.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 958
959

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Anay
Last Name*
Chokhani
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5778 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
960
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a Youth Advisory Committee member in order to help other teens, and it fits with my passion of volunteering to help the community. I am excited to be part of the activities that will help the community, and be a focal part of the committee that plays an integral role of student representation in Dublin Government. I intend to help in a number of different committees and in various capacities that will help Dublin become a better place for its residents and businesses. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Some skills that I possess are: 1. I am an ed100 Graduate. Ed100 is a program that aims to bring awareness about Californiaâ €™s public school system and what students and teens are struggling with. Ed100 has given me insight on our public school system. 2. I have done 42 hours of volunteering at the Dublin Library, participating in programs such as Teen Advisory Group (TAG), helping organize Family Game Nights in the Library, Craft Prep Assistance, and writing Book Reviews for other teens.

TAG is a program where teens meet and discuss ways to help improve our public library. We provide input/ plan services that make the library more teen-friendly and accessible. This has given me experience in working for the community. 3. I am a founding member and Vice President of the Wells Middle Schoolâ€™s Speech and Debate Club. I played a pivotal role in structuring the classes, developing and maintaining the website for the club, and organizational activities such as google forms, ordering T-Shirts for the club. This role has given me experience in leadership and helped me hone my organizational skills. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Some issues that I believe teens face are 1. Some teens might need help with tuition. In our country, tuition is really high for subjects/ SATS. YAC can address this issue by asking volunteering and qualified teens to give free tutoring at places like the Dublin Library. 2. Bullying. YAC can address this issue by running an Anti- Bullying campaign, and by raising awareness about how to report bullying. 3. Social Media/ How to stay safe on Social Media. YAC can address this issue, by putting posters near schools/ asking schools to post it on their website/ putting posters in the library. They can also help create a cyberbullying report service, in which teens can report cyberbullying. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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Participant in WMS chess club, 3. Participant in WMS MathCounts club. I was one of the top students and qualified to represent our school in Regional MathCounts Competition. 4. Frequent Dublin Library Volunteering (volunteered for 42 hours this school year). Yes, I will be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings. I am actually looking forward to this opportunity that will allow me to use and hone my leadership and organizational skills / experience and make Dublin an even better place than it currently is.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* We could get teens to participate in the community, by 1.Offering more volunteering opportunities and encouraging teens to participate. There might be many teens who are willing to volunteer but are not aware of these volunteering opportunities. I believe RAISING AWARENESS is most important and benefits both parties. For e.g. If the Youth Advisory Committee could create a monthly newsletter that states What ACTIVITIES are in Dublin, and ask schools to post it on their website. I would explore many such avenues to raise awareness. 2.Ask the Dublin Library to put YAC made posters. We could also request and put these posters on various school premises and perhaps public places like parks etc. 3. Generate Awareness / Create a YAC Social Media Page on multiple platforms (not only Facebook). Lots of teens use instagram/ TikTok, etc. This would help raise awareness. On the social media page, we can post opportunities for city-sponsored events and also volunteering opportunities.

We should contact school principals to post these messages in their newsletter. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Letter of Recomendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 962

WELLS MIDDLE SCHOOL
Mark E. Neal, Principal
Matt Britten, Asst. Principal
March 22, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

My name is Charlie Belveal and I teach 8th grade history at Wells Middle School. It has been my privilege to have taught Anay Chokhani for the 2022-2023 school year.

I have found Anay to be a very hard working and bright student. During this school year, Anay has done extremely well in my class. He has a keenness for picking up key concepts in history, including a good grasp on the workings of the U.S. Constitution. During our Constitution unit, Anay was often part of in depth discussions, showing good critical thinking skills as well and thoughtful consideration of the topics at hand.

Anay is a very mature person, with excellent interpersonal skills. He comes to school with a great attitude and gets along well with other students while working in class and in his free time. He has no problem taking on the role of group leader and consistently exhibits strong leadership qualities.

It would be a pleasure to recommend Anay for the Youth Advisory Committee.

Sincerely,
Charlie Belveal
WMS, History
963

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Colin
Last Name*
Chung
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5777 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
964
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* My motivation to become a member of the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) is to meet new people, strengthen my leadership experience, and make a positive impact in the community. One community issue I hope to benefit is helping the homeless and those living in poverty (4.6% of Dublin residents according to worldpopulationreview.com). When driving around the city, we see only a few homeless people that are struggling to survive. What we donâ€™t see, however, are the hard working people who donâ€™t make enough and have to live near or below the poverty level. I would like to help by setting up fundraisers within the community, raising awareness to build empathy, and establishing career education programs. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* When I was in 3rd grade, I was the smallest kid in my class, and I didnâ€™t have self confidence. To help me, my parents signed me up for a martials arts class but I was initially hesitant and as time went on I began to really enjoy the experience.

Through hard work, I eventually earned my black belt in 7th grade while gaining confidence along the way. I wanted to give back to kids who are experiencing a lack of self confidence, so last year, I assisted classes at my martial arts school. My experience teaching students as young as 5 years old to adults helped me develop positivity, communication, and encouragement skills. These skills will allow me to help drive YAC initiatives and connect with my peers to encourage greater participation. Additionally, this academic school year I enrolled in the â€œIntro to Engineer Designâ€ class in my high school with a goal to learn more about engineering. We learned how to make 3D objects in Fusion 360, and I was very intrigued by this software, so a month ago, I started a 3D printing business on Etsy with a goal of learning how businesses work. Through my shop, I have strengthened my skill on paying attention to detail. I learned that when a customer pays you for your goods and services that you have to deliver to expectations. My attention to detail ensures that customers receive their products in a timely manner and in perfect condition. While I may not have made many sales, all of my customers have received their products on time and have left positive reviews. I believe that my skill in paying attention to detail with the end customer in mind will help make me a strong candidate for the YAC.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
As previously mentioned, 4.6% of Dublin residents are living in poverty, and this limits what a teenager in these households are able to do as part of their educational experience. For example, at Dublin High School, the buses only pick up students right after school. If a student living near the poverty line is playing a sport at school and their parents are working or donâ€™t have a car, the student is unable to get home without walking a great distance. This could result in not being able to do homework, lower school activity participation, or even get enough sleep, which ultimately weakens their overall educational experience and health. Furthermore, if the teen is struggling in school, they may not be able to afford tutors and can cause them to fall behind in class. The YAC could address these issues by partnering with local organizations to give more opportunities to teenagers in need by providing affordable transportation, sports programs, and tutoring services. A second problem that teens in Dublin are currently facing is the pressure from their parents or relatives to do good in school. When speaking with friends about school, I frequently hear they are exhausted from schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and the constant pressure pushing them to be the best in their class. The stress is taking a toll on students, and their mental health is suffering. The YAC could address these issues by providing stress management activities within schools promoting mental well-being. In Dublin High School there is a Wellness Center that provides help to students who are facing problems with their mental health. A problem with the Wellness Center is that itâ€™s not well-known because itâ€™s located in the back corner of the school where there are only a couple of classes. The YAC could collaborate with Dublin High School to relocate the Wellness Center into a more centralized location. This would help raise awareness about mental health issues concerning students. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently assisting weekend karate classes, and participate 3 days a week as a martial arts student (1 hour each class). I am also a staff writer for the Dublin High School newspaper as well as a member of the California Scholarship Federation (CSF). I write 2-3 articles per semester. For CSF, we meet once a month and have helped with Kids Against Hunger, which I have also done 2-3 times (about 2 hours each time) a year (outside of CSF). (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Driving awareness is important in getting teens involved in events. By leveraging the skills that I have learned as a staff writer for our school paper and running my online business, I can help us focus on driving awareness through social media. I would get teens involved in the community using social media by sharing and publicizing the events. Writing an article in my school newspaper about upcoming events would help involve other teens in the community. I do, however, recognize that generating awareness through written forums can only do so much to drive awareness and participation. Speaking to teens in person and being in front of them will build a connection to drive greater awareness and participation. It is my goal to also be in front of teens to meet new people and make connections that will help YAC initiatives be successful. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not, but would like to attend a city council meeting in the near future. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Colin Chung.pdf
966
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 967
March 19, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

I have known Colin Chung since August of 2022 as a student in my college prep English course. Since the start of the year he has shown himself to be a consistent, dedicated, and engaged student. Colin works hard, meets deadlines, and remains committed to improving his academic reading and writing skills.

In all of my dealings with Colin, he has been respectful, reflective, and motivated to succeed. He is a student who uses class time wisely, produces quality work, and effectively collaborates with classmates. He selects positive and productive peers to work with when we have group projects and presentations. Almost always, he ends up being a trusted leader who helps the group manage time and meet requirements. He often challenges his group's initial ideas to make sure that they understand not only what, but why they are completing a task.

Colin stands out as a student who remains engaged during lectures and as someone who asks clear questions that demonstrate his desire to learn and develop. He is academically curious and clearly values his education, but is not hyper focused on getting a “perfect score;” he’s a student that seems to understand that you cannot put a number on knowledge and values his learning over points. He accepts and reflects on feedback with appreciation and focus to improve. That’s not to say he’s not successful; he’s a 4.0 student and incredibly intelligent.

I recommend Colin for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. As an addition to the committee, he would be accountable, active, and committed to his responsibilities. He’s honest, fair, and willing to reflect on differing opinions. I think he would be a confident and compassionate leader who would commit himself to helping improve programs for Dublin. He’s a critical thinker who could help influence creative solutions for the Parks and Community Services offered to the citizens of Dublin.

Sincerely,
Kate Anderton
English 9 Course Lead
Dublin High School
968

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Mahi
Last Name*
Dalal
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5795 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
969
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* Sophomore (10th grade)

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* - Being a part of YAC will provide me with an opportunity to learn about Dublinâ€™s governmental system including how decisions are made and how they impact the community. As a sophomore at Dublin High School, I want to become a member to learn more about the local government and how to engage with it. - Dublin is a diverse community where we have people from all races, religions, and color. I want to join YAC to promote cultural awareness and diversity. As a part of YAC, I will have access to a platform to promote cultural awareness and diversity in my community. I want to become a member to celebrate and educate others about their cultural heritage. - YAC will allow me to contribute to the betterment of my community by engaging in community service projects, events, and initiatives that address issues that affect youth. As a sophomore at Dublin High School, I want to become a member to contribute to making a positive impact in my community. - The valuable opportunity of joining YAC will help me gain leadership skills and experience. YAC will provide me with an opportunity to gain leadership skills and experience by working collaboratively with other members and participating in community projects and events. - Being a part of YAC will provide me with an opportunity to meet and network with other young leaders who share similar interests and goals as me. As a sophomore at Dublin High School, I want to become a member to build connections and collaborate with other young leaders from diverse backgrounds. - I want to join YAC to have a youth voice in local decisionmaking. As a YAC member, I will have the opportunity to provide input and feedback on issues that affect young people in the City of Dublin. As a sophomore at Dublin High School, I want to become a member to have a say in decisions that affect my school and community.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* - Cultural competence: I have the ability to appreciate and understand different cultures which is an essential skill to have, especially as a student myself coming from a non-American descent. This skill will help better represent the community as a whole. - Communication skills: I believe my communication skills are quite effective to express ideas and give a voice to the youth of Dublin. - Leadership skills: In elementary school, I was vice president of the school body council. In addition, I will build up my leadership skills in addition to the skills I have gained as vice president in elementary school. - Critical thinking and problem-solving skills: As a GATE-certified student, I have the ability to analyze issues, identify underlying problems, and propose solutions, and I believe this is an essential skill to have as a YAC member of the city of Dublin. - courage: I have the responsibility to have the courage of their convictions, speak truth to power, and take on complexity where I see it. - community-building skill: I operate on the principles of social change, where new behaviors start with one person and ripples out from there, touching everyone around me. I believe a YAC member has the responsibility of being his or her own epicenter of change. I believe in giving back to the community, and YAC gives me the valuable opportunity of this. - social skills: I have the ability to develop positive relationships, work effectively with others, and collaborate with diverse groups of people. This skill is important to be successful in a role of YAC.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Here are some of the most important issues I believe teens face, and they need to be addressed in Dublin: - Cultural barriers:

Teens from immigrant or minority backgrounds may experience cultural barriers that can affect their integration and sense of belonging in the community. - Mental health: Many teenagers experience stress, anxiety, and depression, which can impact their mental health and well-being. - Gender-based discrimination: Female teens may face discrimination and inequality based on their gender, such as unequal access to opportunities or gender-based violence. - Substance abuse: Substance abuse is a significant problem among teenagers, and many may struggle with addiction and related health issues. - Academic pressure:

High academic expectations and a competitive environment can cause academic pressure on teenagers, and can lead to many different health problems. - Racial discrimination: Teens of color may face discrimination and prejudice based on their race or ethnicity, which can have negative impacts on their self-esteem and mental health. - Bullying and harassment: Teenagers may experience bullying and harassment at school or in their community, which can have long-lasting negative effects. - Social isolation: Social isolation is a growing problem, especially in the current climate of social distancing and remote learning. - Limited access to resources: Teens from low-income households or marginalized communities may have limited access to resources and opportunities that can support their education and personal growth. I strongly believe that the above-mentioned issues can be addressed by the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) through advocacy, mentorship, peer support, developing programs, collaboration, and awareness campaigns: - Advocating for racial justice and creating awareness campaigns to promote tolerance and inclusion of diverse backgrounds. - Advocating for mental health resources and services for teenagers in Dublin, including counseling services, mental health awareness campaigns, like the one that took place this year, and community resources. For example, YAC can organize mental health workshops and activities, create social media campaigns to reduce the stigma around mental health and connect teens with mental health professionals. - Advocating for gender equality and creating programs and campaigns to empower female teens and promote gender inclusivity in the Dublin community. - Creating programs and campaigns to address substance abuse and promote healthy behaviors. For example, YAC can organize workshops on the dangers of substance abuse, create social media campaigns to raise awareness, and provide information on how to get help for substance abuse. In addition, YAC can collaborate with California substance abuse prevention organizations, or even at the Alameda County level. - Working with the City of Dublin schools to address academic pressure and promote a healthy balance between academic achievement and personal well-being. - Advocating for anti-bullying and harassment policies in schools and the Dublin community and creating awareness campaigns to promote a culture of respect and inclusivity. - Developing programs to combat social isolation and promote positive social interactions among teenagers. For example, YAC can organize clean-up events, food drives, and other volunteer activities that benefit the community. YAC can also work with local government officials to advocate for policies that support teens' engagement in their community. - Advocating for and creating programs to address financial insecurity among teenagers, including scholarship opportunities and financial literacy programs. Additionally, the YAC can take a gender-specific approach to address certain issues that may affect male and female teenagers differently. For instance, the YAC can advocate for programs and services that address specific health issues that affect female teenagers, such as reproductive health and access to feminine hygiene products. The YAC can also work to address gender-based violence and create safe spaces for both male and female teenagers to discuss their experiences and seek support. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I will be able to commit my time to YAC's meetings and activities. Following is the list of activities, skills, and strengths that represent me and my dedication to becoming a valuable member of YAC: - the Dublin High School Track and Field Team - Sewa LEAD (a volunteering organization that helps Bay Area residents and communities in need). - I am going to be volunteering at the Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital in Livermore over the course of the summer. - I am part of the Dublin Model United Nations (MUN) club in DHS. - I am part of the Dublin Indian Student Association club in DHS. - I am part of DHS Avani (an Indian cultural dance club) in DHS and we have performed at several Dublin High School rallies and have performed in several other cultural events. In the 2023-2024 school year, I am going to be involved in the same activities mentioned above.

The above list is all things that I am doing in order to improve a lot of my skills, such as communication and leadership skills.

Despite the commitments, I will make sure that I will be able to commit my time to YAC. This is showing my commitment to the community and my willingness to contribute to the Dublin community as a YAC member. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Here are some examples of what can be done to involve other teens in the community: - We can create a social media campaign to promote a Dublin City-sponsored event. We can use Instagram and TikTok to create a social media campaign that promotes an upcoming teen event sponsored by the City of Dublin. For example, the City of Dublin could sponsor a virtual talent show for teens and promote it through a social media campaign to encourage participation. - YAC could partner with local schools and youth groups to organize a community service project. We could collaborate with Dublin High School or youth groups to organize a community service project. We can offer incentives such as community service hours or letters of recommendation to encourage participation. - Host a cultural festival to celebrate diversity in the community: Organize a cultural festival that showcases the diversity of Dublin's community. Invite local businesses, restaurants, and cultural organizations to participate, and offer food, music, and art exhibits. For example, the City of Dublin could host a Diwali festival to celebrate the Indian community's cultural heritage and invite local Indian restaurants to participate. - YAC could create monthly events or name a day of every month that represents a community service event/cultural event, such as Senior Help Day, Fall Cleanup Day, Veterans Help Day, Green Day, etc. We could do this to involve teens in community service and spread awareness about culture, and the environment. Through all these examples, teenagers can experience the first-hand impact of involvement in their community, and helping out the City of Dublin. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not recently attended a YAC, but when during remote learning, I have virtually attended multiple sessions of the Fremont Unified School District meeting. I do not remember the exact dates. In one of the sessions of the meeting, the board members were voting/debating on how to deliver education to students during the start of the pandemic. However, I am planning to attend a YAC or a City Council meeting.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
LOR Mahi Dalal.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Mahi Dalal LH.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 972

DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL
"THE GAEL FORCE"
A California Distinguished School
Maureen Byrne, Principal Krista Taylor, Assistant Principal Paul Faris, Assistant Principal Lenni Velez, Assistant Principal Diane Santamorena, Assistant Principal Jennifer Nickl, Assistant Principal Chris MacDougall
English Teacher
Dublin High School
To Whom it May Concern:

I am writing to recommend Mahi Dalal in high regard. She excelled as a student in my Health class last semester.

The first thing that I noticed about Mahi was her focus. She was always particularly self-motivated to apply herself to the tasks at hand. Mahi was someone that I could count on to achieve at a high level, at the best of her ability, with the willingness to help her classmates that needed assistance with concepts while working in small groups. She also effectively shared her thoughts in full-class activities.

This sharing of insights was integral to her success and that of her classmates. I value accurate, authentic contributions like Mahi’s while trying to relate a particular lesson’s objectives to my students.

She always did so while remaining serious and respectful. She also had warm friendships with her peers.

Besides her tangible achievements, Mahi brings responsibility, positivity, respect, and friendliness with her wherever she goes. I am confident that the organizations she finds herself in will be excited to have her. Please give her serious consideration for selection.

Sincerely,
Chris MacDougall
8151 Village Parkway
Dublin, California 94568-1699
(925) 833-3300
Main FAX (925) 833-3322
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
973
To Whom It May Concern,
I have the pleasure of teaching Mahi Dalal this year in Advanced Algebra 2 course.

She is a superb student who often goes beyond what is required and shows a genuine enthusiasm and pleasure of learning. Mahi is certainly one of my top students who have achieved academic success, especially as a Freshman in an advanced course. I have often used her paper as exemplary work to show students what “excellence” looks like. She shows maturity, responsibility, and willingness to help other students. She is organized and manages her time well.

I believe she will add a positive energy, hard-work ethics, follow-through, and respect for others that any organization would benefit from. I recommend her wholeheartedly! Sincerely,
Jacqueline Jin
Mathematics Teacher
Dublin High School
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
974

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Vihaan
Last Name*
Dey
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5651 Date Submitted: 3/10/2023
975
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I am incredibly passionate about wanting to become a member of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee as being able to immerse myself as a representative of a committee will allow me to gain exposure to how local government works, which is an opportunity I would love to have to explore as to how the City of Dublin makes daily decisions for our community. Additionally, I want to address the needs of teenagers in Dublin who have issues that are not recognized as much by higher authority but rather by peers themselves, like me, who understand their dilemma as I too have often experienced similar situations that require action by Dublin so that our problems are resolved and we no longer have to continue living with easily avoidable hindrances if they could just be shed light upon. However, the most important reason for my interest in joining the YAC is because of making an impression on my city. I moved to Dublin in 2014, when I was in 1st grade. Right from the very start, I felt as if Dublin was a very inviting and providing community, and I was able to reach out for support wherever and whenever and made me feel very comfortable as a student to go to school, or the park and enjoy the facilities we have among us. Now in high school, the time is nearing when I would be heading off to college soon, and I would absolutely love if I could have the chance to further the same impact by partaking in community activities and events, along with addressing and resolving our youthâ€™s issues to create the same long-lasting impression that Dublin has had on me for the future and current youth of Dublin! (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* In my time in Dublin, I developed a skillset that allowed me to be a better person for myself, as well as a better person for my family, friends, classmates, and anyone else whom I interact with. I acquired a multitude of interpersonal skills within the classroom environment and in a public setting, such as the ability to communicate and listen effectively and efficiently amongst peers, and being able to be flexible with others to compromise for the most beneficial solutions. I demonstrated such traits in numerous instances such as when collaborating with my friends to establish a new club in middle school last year as part of our Community Civic Action Project, as I was treasurer and also took multiple initiatives to reach out to nearby recycling organizations, in which I used such skills for the clubâ€™s best interests. Additionally, I take great pride in establishing traits of being responsible, and respectful, and always try to maintain a positive attitude no matter the situation handed to me as the willpower of positivity is what allows me to endure the roughest of situations in knowing I have a bright future ahead of me if I am able to direct all my focus towards the future in a positive perspective, rather than viewing life in a negative light. Organization is a characteristic I highly value, as being organized is what allows us to be the most efficient and use our fullest potential since it conserves more time to be productive, rather than having to spend time needlessly for events or activities that were not planned beforehand. By staying organized in my daily routine, my supplies for school, and at home, I am able to be the most efficient I can be and make effective use of the time I have each day in completing my scheduled work. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
The most prevalent issue I have seen that Dublin teens are faced with, during my time at middle school and high school, is the constant upbringing of academic peer pressure. Across a majority of friend groups at Dublin High, peer pressure is the leading factor in what makes teens feel so stressed or uncomfortable during their childhood years, the most vital years where teenagers are supposed to explore and immerse themselves in their choice of interests, not the interests of other people. A frequent presence of peer pressure was noticed through academic courseload, where so many teens have chosen to enroll themselves in courses they are unable to handle the curriculum in, yet continue to struggle in class just so that they are able to follow the same schoolwork that their friends have. This struggle is what causes mental fatigue within so many teenagers as we are unable to digest the lessons we learn in class, and our grades are the displeasing outcome of this constant pressure.

The YAC can address this problem by eradicating the root cause of this problem- creating wellness center hubs across Dublin schools and communities to ensure that our students are comfortable in the academic environment in which they have chosen to learn in. Essentially, these wellness center hubs would enforce tutoring sessions, and consultations to see if they are studying in the right course, and regulate breaks and a healthy school schedule so that teens do not burnout from the workload they receive and are able to reflect and realize if the courses they are enrolled in are not the best suited for their academic abilities. Additionally, opportunities for programs for recreational activities, such as sports, are limited and do not allow all teens to partake in sports of their choosing due to the high demand for enrollment in recreation programs we have right now. The YAC can administer a solution by creating summer camps throughout Dublin, such as in the community parks where we run regular sports activities for teens to participate in. We already have an assortment of sports equipment set up at our parks, like volleyball nets and soccer fields, so we can use these utilities for such events so that all teens are included! (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Activities I will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year include numerous clubs, such as HOSA(Future Health Professionals), CSF(California Scholarship Federation), Dublin MSF(Doctors Without Borders), and other clubs as well if time allows which I am undecided on as of now. Additionally, I would be in involved tutoring younger students as a part of the work experience I am trying to gain more of, however, I would allot tutoring hours only for the weekends rather than weekdays. I also want to delve into beginning a research study on an innovative alternative to combating psychogenic itching, and am planning to devote about 1-2 hours weekly to this research project, as I am deeply passionate about pursuing a project which I can use for reference in future summer programs and to enter for local and nationwide science fairs! My weekdays would be primarily taken up by school and the homework which follows after school, but should not take too long as I am only taking 2 AP courses and 1 Honors course next year, so I will have a light workload. Hence, I will definitely be able to devote time to YAC meetings and activities that would be held during the school year, as this would be the utmost priority for me to set aside time for, especially considering the importance of being a part of this esteemed committee! (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would encourage other teens to immerse themselves in community, teen, and City-sponsored activities and events by advertising the local events we host in Dublin as much as possible. Current teens may be involved in too much of their own personal work and activities and are unable to check for themselves if there are any upcoming community events. However, by advertising such events through word of mouth, and social media platforms, and relaying messages to the schools to broadcast to their students, they would be able to hear and know about our events and gain interest in participating in them. We can encourage teens to then participate in these activities by putting together activities that teenagers do actually like to participate in. If we could send out a citywide form for students to fill out listing what kind of activities they would like to see held locally, like movie nights or science fairs, then we are able to use that input into forming activities which would encourage more participation and attendance of teens to partake in Dublin events. Additionally, volunteer hours are a great way to incentivize the benefits of taking part in the community. A majority of teens are looking for ways to contribute to community service and can do this by helping out in the events we host or participating in these events if we mention the involvement of them being able to volunteer as part of their community service in the making of such activities. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not recently attended any YAC or Dublin City Council meetings. However, I had attended meetings in the past in front of the Dublin Unified Board in which I advocated for the funding of a comprehensive high school, which has contributed to the choice for establishing Emerald High School for the Dublin youth and had also attended a Dublin meeting in the past to recite a poetry piece as a representative on behalf of my elementary school. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Vihaan Letter of Recommendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 978
March 2, 2023
To Whom This May Concern:

It is with my sincerest pleasure that I am writing in recommendation of Vihaan Dey as a potential candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. Vihaan is currently a high-performing student in my 9th grade English 1 Advanced class, and I am very pleased to inform you that the qualities he has shown in my class signal his ability to make positive contributions to your committee. Vihaan is a particularly memorable student, because he always has great ideas and conveys them well in his writing. Additionally, without fail, Vihaan arrives to class with a prepared, focused and thoughtful mentality. Each day, as we launch into the day’s activities, Vihaan demonstrates his preparation and knowledge through his thoughtful participation in our class discussions and writing opportunities. He stands out from his peers, in that he continually exceeds expectations with the quality and complexity of his writing.

In addition to his impressive performance in our English class, Vihaan possesses interpersonal skills which undoubtedly speak to his potential as a participant in your committee.

With regards to collaborative work, Vihaan has shown a friendly attitude, as well as an openness and willingness to cooperate and communicate effectively with his classmates - pitching in his own ideas and responding to his classmates in a way that encourages his peers to engage in self reflection. On a few occasions, Vihaan naturally found himself in a leadership position in our group work activities, and his classmates regarded him with respect. Even when faced with a daunting task such as getting started with an essay, Vihaan approaches the work www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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with an air of calm and thoughtfulness. Due to this quality of his, other students enjoy working with him. With his excellent academic and interpersonal skills, as well as his reliability as a trustworthy student, Vihaan is an excellent candidate for your committee. Overall, Vihaan’s well-rounded character, which embodies the qualities of courage, passion and intelligence, undoubtedly enhances his potential as an incoming candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. Please do not hesitate in accepting him; he’s sure to make many positive and enlightening contributions which will enhance the experience of his peers.

Sincerely,
Carmen Chan
Dublin High School English Teacher
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
980

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Samuel
Last Name*
Donasco
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5853 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
981
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Cottonwood Creek School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 7 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I would like to become a member of the YAC because I can portray what the teens of Dublin are actively interested in and because I can follow trends that happen. Another reason I would like to join is to improve other teensâ€™ lives. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I possess great management skills which helped me file for my grandmother's dual citizenship in the Philippines. Not only that, I possess great tech-savvy skills in a world with an advancing digital landscape. I also have good communication skills, am flexible, creative, and pay attention to detail when working. I am also good at working with others and solving problems that arise.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I believe that teens have mental problems that could be solved with anonymous counseling. I also think that also anti-drug and smoking programs could help teens in the future. Online safety is also a large problem with teens in Dublin so I think that could be solved with education on how to be safe on the internet. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* During the 2023-2024 year, I will be involved in an archery club. I will be able to devote time each month to YAC meetings and activities.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved with activities and events by putting up posters and posting on social media to invite teens to activities and events.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.) 982

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Recommendation for Sam D..pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 983

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
Mar 23, 2023
To Whom it may concern:

I have had the pleasure of having Samuel Donasco as a student in two of my classes this year. He has shown himself to be responsible, thoughtful and outspoken when he sees a problem that needs to be addressed.

I believe that he would be an excellent candidate for the Youth Advisory Council since he is able to actively listen and use his reasoning skills to provide a fair and balanced point of view.

Please contact me if you have any specific questions or would like more specific information about Sam.

Sincerely,
Vicki Johnson
Vicki Johnson
2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 984

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Dundi Sai Charan
Last Name*
Dondapati
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5821 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
985
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Cottonwood Creek K-8 School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 8th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I believe that Dublin primarily focuses on issues that are clearly happening to teenagers, but not enough on some issues that occur out of sight. For example, Dublin doesn't stress the negative impacts of cyberbullying enough. Some ways that they could do this is by finding volunteers who are willing to share their stories about cyberbullying, then write a short essay or video about cyberbullying that includes these volunteers' stories. Schools could read or show this essay or video to their students. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am committed. If I start something that I have interest in, I will almost never quit. So if I get accepted into the YAC, I will most definitely be an active participant. I am also observant of my environment. I can keep track of details around me that are occurring. If a teenager were to be troubled, I could mentally note down what was bothering them and communicate this to the YAC. My empathy is what I believe to be my most useful and significant quality. I can draw a conclusion about why a person is acting the way they are based on recent events that have occurred to them lately, their facial expression, and their typical language. This way, I could connect recent events with emotions, so I can tell what is bothering them. If I thought it to be of importance, I could pass my conclusion along to the YAC, so that they could find another possible issue teens face. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
One prominent issue that I believe teens in Dublin are currently dealing with is â€œshippingâ€. This means that a boy and a girl are forced by peer pressure to â€œlikeâ€ each other. This creates an awkward relationship between the boy and girl that affects their social and academic success by creating unnecessary stress and expectations. I believe that YAC could address this issue by asking adults throughout Dublin to sit down and have a talk with their child about this issue. Counselors in the schools could give presentations to their students about â€œshippingâ€. Should this issue continue, then staff in schools could give AASD (Administrative After School Detention) to students suspected of any form of this issue. During these detention sessions, the students could write a short essay on why they shouldnâ€™t ship anymore. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Activities I will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year are the Music Association, which is a student-led club that supports our schoolâ€™s music curriculum, winter drum major, symphony orchestra, cross country, volleyball, track and field, archery, basketball class, YCW, which is a coding workshop, and swim clinic. I will be able to devote time for YAC meetings and activities because all of these activities are spread evenly throughout the school year, so I will have no more than two extracurriculars each month.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved in teen events and City-sponsored activities by spreading the word to teachers, friends, family, etc., and by requesting the principal to announce these sorts of events through the morning announcements every week. I would also get teens involved in the community by hosting fun events about Dublin. For example, there could be a contest for middle schoolers and high schoolers to see who could write the best fictional short story about some issues that teenagers face, and these people could compete for prizes.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not recently attended a YAC, Dublin Commission, or City Council meeting. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Dundi SaiCharan LOR (1).pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
2023 Charan - Letter of Recommendation.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 987

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
March 20th, 2023
To the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Selection Team:

My name is Jasper Tran and I am the Music Director at Cottonwood Creek School (CCS) in Dublin, CA.

I am also the new Music Director for Emerald High School which is the Dublin Unified School District's second comprehensive high school. I am writing to recommend Charan Dondapati for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Charan is a member of the Music Association which is our student run music club. He was active in arranging fundraisers which helped support the music department monetarily. He is also an active volunteer and assists us when needed. He is reliable and a hard worker.

It is my pleasure to recommend him for the Youth Advisory Council.

Sincerely,
Jasper Tran
Music Director, Cottonwood Creek School
Music Director, Emerald High School
2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 988

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
Mar 18, 2023
Dear Dublin Youth Advisory Committee,
I am writing this letter of recommendation for Dundi Sai Charan Dondapati.

I have known Charan for two years as a student in my physical education class. Also, I have had Charan on the school boys volleyball for two years.

He demonstrates all of the Dublin Integrity in Action Character Traits. Charan is responsible, respectful, giving, caring, cooperative, honest, does his best, is trustworthy, has a positive attitude and self discipline. I would describe Charan as bright, positive in nature and honest. His grades in all subjects are excellent and he has zero behavior infractions.

He would learn a lot by being a part of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Sincerely,
Natalie Young
Instructor of Student Leadership Elective and Physical Education 2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1 989

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Hasini
Last Name*
Dontula
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5848 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
990
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Iâ€™ve been a representative for students for a long time. I started with Student Body where I represent middle school students in the meetings, then I also joined School Site Council and represent all the students in my school. Throughout my experiences, Iâ€™ve realized that the kidsâ€™ actual needs are denied and ignored. Parents and other adults assume they know their child's needs and advocate for those resources. Due to their age, their suggestions get taken more seriously than the studentsâ€™ suggestions. What students truly want is overlooked and their needs are ignored. I want to be able to represent the students that go unheard and make sure their opinion is respected and considered. The larger my role, the more changes I can suggest and the more I can promote the voice of the students. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am a cooperative person who tries to include everyone. I'm considerate of others so I often come up with compromises. I prefer to think out of the box and find creative solutions that will benefit all. Additionally, I remain positive and calm in stressful situations. From my experience as part of the Emerald High Design Team, I know that some meetings tend to get a bit emotional. It got especially complicated when reflecting on personal experiences and how to prevent students from going through similar situations. However, I'm a level-headed person and while dedicated to the Dublin students, I will try my hardest to find an understanding that benefits everyone. As part of the School Site Council, I often had to talk with other students about their opinions of the school to report back and I've learned how to discuss controversial topics with others. Using what I have learned by being a Student Body Officer and on the School/Site Council, I could efficiently learn about the majority of people's ideas. Not everyone agreed on the use of certain funds and new policies but I was able to remain neutral and deliver everyoneâ €™s opinions with the same amount of appeal. I'm also on the Debate Team so I know how to communicate clearly, concisely, and especially respectfully.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Currently, teens in Dublin have serious problems with cyberbullying and drug addiction. I've stood up for people who have been fat-shamed online and been called disgusting names. YAC needs to address these issues by setting up more learning opportunities for students to show kids the effects their words have. YAC also needs to teach students how to report bullying and stand up against bullies. A couple of years ago, a girl committed suicide because of bullying right here in Dublin. Now, no one remembers it. People need to realize their words' impact and how to use that impact positively. Another problem is the increase in drugs. YAC should set up more programs to help people quit drugs not only prevent them. Rehab options should be more known and discussed.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Currently, I am involved in multiple activities includingâ€¦ - I founded a volunteer program called The Online Story Hour where I read books to young kids and play with them for an hour on Zoom. - I'm in Leadership so I know how to plan events efficiently and raise passion and cheer among my peers - I'm a Student Body Officer so I have an idea of how the council would work - I'm on the School Site Council in which I speak for the students to the principal, along with a teacher representative and a parent representative - I'm on the Emerald High Design Team where another student and I represented Cottonwood Middle School in designing and planning the new school. - I'm part of a volunteer program called the Changemakers, which is a sub-part of Save The Child, where kids learn to challenge discrimination against unheard minorities - Iâ€™ve been in TUPE for 2 years to raise awareness about the devastating effects of drugs and smoking Some commitments that I will continue in the upcoming school year areâ€¦ - My volunteer program that goes by the name of â€œOnline Story Hourâ€ where I read books to young kids and play with them for an hour on zoom. - The ChangeMakers program which is part of the Save The Child Program. - I will also be applying for TUPE since I've been in it for the past couple of years and truly believe that there needs to be more education warning against smoking and drugs. Over the years I've developed effective time management skills to balance all my responsibilities. I will most definitely be able to devote my time to the YAC meetings and activities. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I will get other teens involved in the community and city-sponsored activities by using social media. Social media is a great way to spread the word quickly. By using platforms where there are a lot of kids like Discord, Iâ€™ll be able to raise awareness. To get everyoneâ€™s opinions Iâ€™ll send out polls and forms like Iâ€™ve been doing for the Emerald High Design Team. I also know what causes people are passionate about so I will know who to invite to what event. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* While I have not attended any meetings recently, I watched the recorded version of a City Council Meeting. It was the meeting on March 14th about Emerald High School. Some of my friends and I have been preparing points to discuss Emerald's mascot since the new mascot was not well-liked in our school. My friends and I got opinions and reasons from tons of students in our school but unfortunately, we didnâ€™t get a chance to discuss it on the 14th. However, we will be attending the meeting on the 28th and bringing up our argument.
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
RecHasiniDontula2.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
RecHasiniDontula.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 992
993
March 21, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
It is my honor to recommend Hasini Dontula for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Board.

As the inaugural principal for our new Emerald High School, I have worked closely with Hasini for the last 6 months on our EHS Design Team. Together with parents, community leaders, staff and other students, the EHS Design Team is working to prepare for the opening of our school in the 2023-24 school year, as well as establish the guiding principles for the school for future years, and Hasini is an active student-leader on this team. She is a mature, young woman characterized by compassion and determination, reflected through her collaborative communication skills, servant-leadership, and care for others.

As a current 8th grader at Cottonwood School, Hasini is a student-leader who has contributed to several decision-making committees, including being an Associated Student Body Officer and a member of the Cottonwood School Site Council. Her work in all these committees provided student voice to the decision-making process and helped the school community develop and improve programs for all students. Hasini also founded the Art Club, volunteers to read to young children every week through a literacy program, and is an active member of the Changemakers2030 program of Save the Child Foundation focusing on improving global conditions for child welfare. Through her servant-leadership and advocacy, Hasini inspires others to get involved in their communities.

I believe that Hasini can positively influence any organization or community with which she becomes involved. I know that she will work hard to serve our community with compassion and self-determination, just as she has shown on the EHS Design Team. I highly recommend Hasini Dontula to the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Board. If you have any questions, please contact me at
Sincerely,
Francis A. Rojas
Inaugural Principal
Emerald High School
994

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Jyoti
Last Name*
Enugula
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5859 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
995
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Due to my interest in having a positive influence on our community, I wish to join the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

I've lived in Dublin for eight years, and I want to contribute my voice to the discussion on how to improve our community. I'm eager to collaborate with other young people who share my viewpoint on matters that affect city youth, such as community resources, access to education, and mental health. I'm also thrilled about the chance to develop my leadership abilities, network with professionals, and influence other people's lives. Also, being a member of a youth advisory committee can be fulfilling since it can give me a voice and let me participate in decisions that directly affect me. I can help establish policies, programs, and projects that help build a better future for myself, my peers, and the people of Dublin by joining the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. As a survivor of sexual assault, I want my life to be an example of success after trauma. I could bring attention to the particular needs and issues that young people have in our community by participating on the Youth Advisory Committee, ensuring that their views are heard and that their experiences are taken into account. My experience as a survivor of sexual assault can give me a special viewpoint and the motivation to change our city's community. I can try to make everyone's environment safer and more encouraging by serving on the Youth Advisory Committee. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I've learnt how to communicate well by playing competitive soccer for the majority of my life. This would enable me to clearly express my ideas and opinions and contribute to worthwhile discussions. I am able to evaluate data, identify potential issues, and put forth effective solutions. It would allow me to give the committee insightful feedback. I have the ability to come up with unique solutions and ideas, which could be helpful in brainstorming meetings and when proposing new initiatives. I am able to pick things up quickly and adapt with the situation, which is helpful in a fast-paced setting like a Youth Advisory Committee. I am able to comprehend other people's perspectives and needs, which I've learned by being a part of a peer education and counseling program. It is also a valuable skill of mine in order to represent the concerns of the youth in the city and advocate for their needs.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Many teenagers are coping with mental health problems like anxiety, depression, and loneliness due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other stressors, which I've personally observed as a student at Dublin High. The Youth Advisory Committee might deal with this problem by pushing for counseling services and support groups to be made available in schools and community centers. In order to increase awareness of mental health issues and lessen the stigma associated with seeking treatment, we may also plan events and campaigns. An increasing awareness of social justice concerns like racism, sexism, and discrimination has emerged in recent years, even in Dublin. In order to address this issue, the Youth Advisory Committee could plan educational activities and occasions that encourage understanding and empathy as well as advocate for policies and programs that support equity and fairness. The best way to recognize and meet the needs of Dublin's youth population is to engage closely with them and their families, pay attention to their worries, and create solutions that are specific to their needs and circumstances.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* During the 2023- 2024 school year, Iâ€™ll be involved with soccer in a club and at school. I can devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* A powerful tool for connecting with young people is social media. We can promote upcoming events and activities, emphasize the advantages of community involvement, and highlight the beneficial effects that young people can have on their communities by using platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. We are in a unique position to connect with our peers and motivate them to participate because we are young ourselves. We may create peer-to-peer outreach opportunities and spread awareness of the advantages of community involvement by cooperating with schools, youth organizations, and other community organizations. We can develop novel and captivating activities that appeal to young people by working with local businesses and groups. For example, we could plan a music festival, a movie screening, or a sporting event that mixes entertaining events with chances for community involvement. Giving young people reasons to participate, such as free entrance, awards, or service hours, can be a successful strategy. We can encourage more teenagers to engage in City-sponsored events by making volunteering enjoyable and rewarding. And last, I think the best way to engage young people in their communities is through personal relationships. We can encourage others to get engaged and show how community involvement may improve both our own lives and the lives of those around us by sharing our own experiences. Ultimately, I think we can make community involvement for young people more approachable, interesting, and rewarding by combining these tactics. I would work to put these tactics into practice and support encouraging more young people to get active in their communities as a member of the Youth Advisory Committee.
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I haven't attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Jyoti Letter of Rec.pdf
997
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 998
To whom it may concern:

Jyoti Enugula was a recreational Head Coach for one of our U12 recreational teams in Fall 2022.

I was her direct supervisor during that time.

Jyoti’s job duties included conducting a pre-season parent meeting, organizing and executing practice curriculum, and performing coaching duties on game days. She was also there to motivate and encourage 11 and 12-year-old female athletes.

Jyoti did a great job with her team. She was organized, on time, and created a fun environment for the players. Jyoti is very bright and takes pride in her work. She is a great role model for young children and she possesses the tools necessary to have a very successful and fulfilling future.

Sincerely,
Megan Walinski
Pleasanton RAGE Recreational Director
999

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Vignesh
Last Name*
Gannavarapu
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5856 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1000
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee so that I can join a team that will allow me to help other teens have a better youth in the city I care so much about. I witnessed firsthand teens struggling with a variety of mental health issues, and while I can talk to to them and be there for them, I can only do so much. By becoming a member of the YAC I could be a positive influence in our city and I could do my part in aiding those who struggle. Some people are not as fortunate as others, but they should at least be given the opportunity to have a fulfilling childhood. I only have a few years left as a high schooler and want to make a positive impact on as many people as possible before I graduate. This position would give me a new perspective on our city that many citizens do not have, and understanding what goes on behind the scenes would let me be well prepared for situations in the future that call for the same skills. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I would be a great candidate for the YAC because I possess strong leadership qualities as well as the ability to work around roadblocks in an efficient manner. I have been teaching taekwondo for 4 years and have been practicing it for over a decade. I have learned a lot about how to both lead a group and provide strong input on problems that might be hindering performance through classes and dealing with children of all ages. For example, often times the head instructor is not available to lead and I am put in charge of all classes and practically managing the whole dojang. The other people who assist our head instructor and I have to work together to manage classes and handle conflicts. One time a kid fell down and started crying, however we were swiftly able to console her while also keeping the class running smoothly, and these types of situations have prepared me to handle conflicts as they arise. Additionally, parents usually want to talk to us about their child's progress, or if they have a problem with something regarding the class, and this has given me the ability to talk to people of all age groups in a proficient manner and providing input on how to resolve problems. Other times I need to make use of leadership skills is during Junior State of America (JSA) conventions. JSA is a student run political debate organization where I am running for Senator, and I am developing both my public speaking, leadership, and debate skills all at once. With running for senator comes dealing with many people and campaigning, which has allowed me to gain new experiences in many areas as I have to come up with ways to problem solve and assist others in aid.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I believe that teens in Dublin are currently dealing with problems regarding mental health. I personally know a few people who are struggling with mental health issues, and I see many more on social media sites struggling with so many problems. I notice that my own younger brother sometimes gets treated unfairly at school and I realize that kids all around Dublin are dealing with these same issues. It pains me to see that my friends are not in a good mental state, and I want to help them and as many people as I can in an effective manner. I believe that we as a city could be providing an open space where people can just talk about themselves, and important subjects. The YAC could address important issues like this by holding student-run meetings in a welcoming place such as the city library, providing a safe and open space for people to talk about mental health. One of the biggest drivers of mental health issues is people not feeling like they have a safe place or person to go and talk to, and by holding student-run meetings we can provide a more personal experience for teens to have a safe space to go to. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently involved with the club Junior State of America, which is a political debate club, as well as taekwondo. Next school year I will also be more involved in the school's speech and debate club. I will definitely be able to devote time to YAC meetings and activities because I am good at managing my time and balancing out what is important and what isn't.

Additionally, most other activities I undertake will primarily be over the weekend and I will be able to set aside one Wednesday every month or even more if needed.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I think that an important part of getting teens to be involved in the community is proper marketing and providing incentives that appeal to teens. For example, marketing events such as Splatter or the Shamrock 5k as not only a family experience but also one that can be enjoyed with friends would highly increase teen involvement. Additionally, adding something as simple as a photo-booth at most or all Dublin events could increase teen involvement because providing an area to take photos for social media or to share with friends might push more people to show up at events. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not attended a YAC or City Council meeting.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Vignesh Gannavarapu Letter of Recommendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1002
March 21, 2023
To Whom This May Concern:

It is with my sincerest pleasure that I am writing in recommendation of Vignesh Gannavarapu as a potential incoming participant in the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Vignesh is currently a high-performing student in my 10th-grade English class, and I am happy to inform you that the qualities he has shown in my class speak to his ability to make positive contributions to your committee and ultimately to our own community. Vignesh is a particularly memorable student, because he is highly engaged and contributes to a positive, conducive class environment. Additionally, without fail, Vignesh arrives to class with a prepared and dedicated mentality. Each day, as we launch into the day’s activities, Vignesh demonstrates his preparation and knowledge through his participation in our class discussions and writing opportunities. As a thoughtful, expressive writer, Vignesh excels in the way that he conveys his opinions and concerns for others in his writing. For example, he constructed one of the strongest Op-Ed Articles in our class, in which he addressed the subject of police brutality being disproportionately targeted at Black Americans. He organized very convincing claims, all of which were supported by a strong selection of textual evidence. His writing demonstrates his methodical approach to assignments, as well as his persistence in providing high-quality work which mirrors his genuine concerns for our society and which best showcases his close engagement with a variety of credible sources.

In addition to his impressive performance in our English class, Vignesh possesses interpersonal skills which undoubtedly speak to his potential as a participant in your committee. www.dublinusd.org/dhs
1003
With regards to collaborative work, Vignesh has shown a fun, cheerful spirit, as well as an openness and willingness to cooperate and communicate effectively with his classmates. A natural leader, he is a joy to have in our class, and his peers appreciate working with him.

Additionally, Vignesh continually strives to be informed about issues in our community and our world and is not afraid to vocalize his concerns and ideas for a better future, a fact which became clear in our class discussions and in his essays, such as his Op-Ed Article. With his excellent academic and interpersonal skills, as well as his reliability as a trustworthy student, Vignesh is an excellent candidate for your committee.

Overall, Vignesh’s well-rounded character, which embodies the qualities of courage, curiosity and intelligence, undoubtedly enhances his potential as an incoming candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I feel that this will allow him to build his collaboration skills in a new, exciting setting with like-minded peers, as well as share his many great ideas and perspective. Please do not hesitate in accepting him; he’s sure to make many positive and enlightening contributions which will enhance the experience of his peers on the committee and make a lasting impact on our community!
Sincerely,
Carmen Chan
Dublin High School English Teacher
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
1004

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Gabriella
Last Name*
Gazman
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5846 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1005
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because of the experience that I had in my last term. My last term was filled with an amazing experience of planning events and overall giving back to my community. I love being a part of this committee because of the amazing people and being a part of events such as being on the Youth Mental Health Forum ad hoc committee and volunteering at the Information booth at the St. Patricks Day festival. I made friends with people who I have never seen even though they go to my school and have gotten closer to people in the city who I have never even met before. Being on the committee showed me how small but powerful Dublin is. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* One skill that I possess is being a hard worker. I don't give up until I can get what I want or need. I work hard to get the things that I have today. I also work well with other people and I love meeting new people. I do tend to be shy and awkward at times but I do love meeting and working with other people, especially when I warm up to them. I also love working for the community and planning events. Planning events and seeing them come to life is one of the things that I enjoy the most. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Some issues that I believe teens are dealing with right now are burnout and not taking care of themselves. Lots of people that I go to school with put a lot of pressure on themselves and select tough classes to the point where they lose motivation and their mental health starts to decline. Lots of teens at my school are taking toxic substances like alcohol and vaping to cope with their mental illnesses. I believe that the Youth Advisory Committee should teach other teens about how burnout can affect a person, how to cope with mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety, and how to prevent burnout from happening. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* A couple of activities that I am involved in right now are DubMed, Incoming Eye, and I take dance at The Next Step Studio. I will be trying out for the hip-hop team for Dublin High sometime in May and I would probably join clubs such as DubMed, Rare Diseases Club, and I would probably start my own club about Jewish Heritage because we do not have a club for Judaism and I would like to start one.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens to get involved in the community by influencing and spreading new through popular apps and putting flyers in places teens like to go to on campus such as the academic recreation center (ARC), classrooms, cafeteria, and library. I would also spread the news on social media like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. I could also ask people who do morning announcements to say something about the event. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* Yes, the meeting was on March 22, 2023, and one of the events I was interested in was the Hackathon and the Benefit Concert.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Letter of Rec-Power.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1007
1008

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Anushka
Last Name*
Ghorpade
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5863 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1009
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 12 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* In the midst of COVID during my freshman year, I learned about learning gaps due to the transition to online education among middle schoolers in my community. From tutoring one student struggling to adjust, I knew there were more in need of help. I started TutorConnect, a club where high school students volunteered to tutor middle schoolers pro bono. TutorConnectâ€™s mission was to support middle schoolers in surmounting challenges in Math and English as an additional language. I liaised with local high school counselors to grant tutors volunteer hours and with middle school counselors to identify students at their schools most in need of extra help. I recruited six high school tutors who committed to an hour a week. That year, we tutored ten students, improving learning outcomes and grades by summer as seen through a steady increase in their grades. I am currently a part of the nonprofit organization PANGEA, which works to spread literacy to underprivileged students in Uganda.

Due to my ongoing efforts in assisting fellow students to obtain the necessary resources for academic and personal development, my aim is to extend my assistance by serving as a valuable member of the Youth Advisory Council. I aspire to establish a conducive setting that reflects the aspirations of young individuals in Dublin and promotes their well-being, enabling them to become exemplary members of our community.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* In my early elementary education, I was fortunate to attend a Montessori school that fostered self-discovery and independent thinking, sparking my love for learning. This led me to join the robotics team in eighth grade, where I acquired essential skills such as effective communication, time management, and team organization. Throughout my four years in robotics, I moved through various teams, each providing me with valuable lessons. As a responsible team member, I completed my assigned tasks and proactively led task delegation. I firmly believe that a team is most productive when individuals enjoy their contributions and are not burdened with busywork or unimportant tasks. While acknowledging that all work must be completed, I strive to enable my teammates to pursue their interests. Moreover, I ensure that everyone on the team has a voice and an opportunity to share their perspectives since I believe in the power of collaborative brainstorming and diverse viewpoints.

Personally, I express my opinions constructively and actively listen to others to try and create the best environment for team success. I believe that these skills, honed through diverse team experiences, make me an excellent candidate for the Youth Advisory Council (YAC), as I can effectively communicate the needs and aspirations of teenagers in my community. With my ability to establish a genuine rapport and ask thoughtful questions, I can convey an accurate representation of the student body's sentiments.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
In my opinion, a significant challenge faced by many teenagers in Dublin is the overwhelming stress and pressure associated with college admissions. Although several resources are available to students, a lack of awareness often hinders their utilization. As a member of the Dublin High School Engineering Academy, I learned about numerous scholarships accessible to Dublin High School students. However, upon speaking with my peers, I realized that many were unaware of these resources.

Consequently, many students struggle to secure necessary funds, leading to financial stress. During my tenure at the Youth Advisory Council (YAC), I aim to increase awareness among students regarding available scholarships and other resources. I believe that by empowering students to take advantage of these opportunities, we can alleviate financial stress, enhance the educational experiences of young individuals, and strengthen the community as a whole. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Currently, I am actively engaged in various pursuits that contribute to my personal and professional growth. I am a member of the Robotics team, where I work on innovative projects that sharpen my problem-solving and teamwork skills. I am also interning part-time at NABU, an electrical engineering company, where I am gaining valuable insights into the industry and developing my technical expertise. Additionally, I am conducting research with ASDRP, honing my analytical and critical thinking abilities. Moreover, I am volunteering part-time at PANGEA, where I am making a positive impact on the community while developing my interpersonal and communication skills. Through these diverse experiences, I am broadening my horizons and expanding my knowledge, preparing myself for future endeavors. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* My approach to involving other teens in City-sponsored activities would be multifaceted. Firstly, I would strive to design activities that appeal to them and cater to their interests, so that they are more likely to attend. Additionally, I would ensure that they are aware of these events well in advance, perhaps through social media, flyers, or other means of outreach. To further facilitate participation, I would work to alleviate any sources of stress or anxiety that may discourage teens from attending these activities. For example, I would provide information on transportation options, designate safe meeting spots, and implement measures to ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment. Ultimately, my goal would be to create a sense of excitement and enthusiasm among teens about City-sponsored events, fostering a greater sense of community engagement and involvement.

By working collaboratively with the youth, I am confident that we can create an environment that encourages participation and facilitates positive experiences for all.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
RecommendationLetterFormat -Anushka Ghorpode.docx
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
1011
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1012
EnerSaaS Inc.
39899 Balentine Dr. Suite #200, Newark, CA 94560
2/24/2023
To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing this recommendation in support of Ms. Anushka Ghorpade, a junior at Dublin High School and a research intern at NABU Energy. I work as a Product Development Consultant for EnerSaaS Inc, which is a subsidiary of NABU energy. I have been a mentor and research guide to Anushka on stationary energy storage, virtual power plants (VPP) to evaluate peer-to-peer energy trading of excess energy using Blockchain technology.

Anushka was working on reviewing research papers listed below and implementing concepts on product development effort :

1. A review of strategic charging–discharging control of grid-connected electric vehicles Authors : Tirupati Uttamrao Solanke, Vigna K Ramachandaramurthy, Jia Ying Yong, Jagadeesh Pasupuleti, Padmanathan Kasinathan, Arul Rajagopalan
Publication date 2020/4/1, Source Journal of Energy Storage

2. Effective microgrid synchronization in islanded mode: controlled input/output PI-FuzzyPI algorithm Authors :Solanke TirupatiU, Kulkarni Anant A
Publication date : 2013/8, Journal International Journal of Computer Applications

3. Optimal design of EV aggregator for real-time peak load shaving and valley filling Authors :Tirupati U. Solanke, Pradeep K. Khatua, Vigna K. Ramachandaramurthy, Jia Ying Yong, Jeevan Kanesan, Mohd Tariq, Padmanathan Kasinatha
Publication date 2021/3/24, 2020 IEEE International Conference on Power Electronics, Drives and Energy Systems (PEDES)
Anushka has demonstrated diligence and hard work in her work during this research effort. Her ability to understand complex concepts and break them down into simple actionable task was critical for conducting and successfully concluding the research effort. In all our meetings and other offline interactions, she was always inquisitive and curious about renewable technology and viability of various business models. One of Anushka’s assignments was to define technology stack and business viability of a scalable cost-effective peer-to-peer energy trading platform. She looked at all the available related IEEE papers, customer inputs, university research work published online and came back after six weeks with her initial finding, which exceeded my expectations. Over the course of next few months, she kept working through additional research work and published her final research work with recommendation, which informed our investment decision on this project. During this engagement, she completed all her work in timely fashion and was always open to input and feedback.

I strongly recommend Anushka Ghorpade for Clarks Scholar program because of her passion for research, her deep interest in pursuing Electrical Engineering undergraduate program, and positive personal and professional attributes I came across during our interactions. She has been an asset for NABU Energy and EnerSaas and I believe she will contribute immensely to the research efforts at Clarks Schooler program.
1013
EnerSaaS Inc.
39899 Balentine Dr. Suite #200, Newark, CA 94560
Sincerely,
Tirupati Solanke, PhD
1014

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Adithya
Last Name*
Gnanasundar
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5760 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1015
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* When I visit neighboring cities, I usually see an amount of inequality, poverty, and crime. However, I have never seen these in the striving city of Dublin. I love the Dublin community and have been searching for a way to give back to Dublin. When I first saw this opportunity, I was very intrigued, as I knew this position was the perfect opportunity to give back to the city I love. This role will put me in a position to help make Dublin an even better place. In addition, being a part of YAC will help strengthen my work ethic and let me gain information about the work environment, which is very valuable as a teenager. Other applicants may use this role to improve their college applications. However, I guarantee that if chosen for this position, my top priority will be giving back to the city of Dublin.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I possess many skills that I would use to succeed in this position. To start, I am very cooperative. In team projects and I find it better to see past our differences and instead contribute to a common goal. For example, in 7th grade, we were tasked to create a slideshow about the government. I was grouped with students I was not fond of, and I initially thought this would be a poor project. However, I learned to see past my group member's differences and instead focus on the project. The project ended up being very fun, and we ended up receiving an A grade. In addition to cooperation, I also possess the skill of Leadership. For instance, I am Secretary for the Dublin High School Symphonic Band. In this position, I must guide my fellow band members to success by answering their questions, setting up sectional practices outside of school, taking notes during meetings, and much more. Cooperation and Leadership are just a few skills I possess; I also have Strategy, Project Management, and much more, which I have learned at summer internships and other positions. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Many Dublin Teens struggle with mental health issues. Walking around my school campus, I often see bullying and stress from academics. While it is inevitable to have instances like these, Dublin YAC can ease the stress of many teens by hosting more events. An event I have in mind is a Mental Health Fair. Students can create presentations about conserving mental health, and organizations and professionals will score them. The presentation with the highest score would win an award or prize. It is essential to have a distinction or compensation for these events. I have found teens very competitive, and most strive to win competitions. Having an award or prize listed in a competition will convince many teens to participate. Another issue teens struggle with often is getting involved with the community. A method YAC can use to solve this is by hosting job fairs, volunteer fairs, etc. An event I have in mind is the city-wide youth job fair, where different companies and brands can advertise jobs, volunteer activities, and summer internships to teens around Dublin. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am involved with the band and am a Dublin High School Irish Guard member. I also have a marketing position at a non-profit known as Amba Farmers Voice and a marketing position at another non-profit known as United Farmers Cooperative. I also play chess in the chess club. Next year I will be joining Dublin DECA in addition to taking an Integrated Marketing Commissions Course. I will also join Dublin DEDA in addition to taking a computer science course. I plan to join other clubs such as Model UN, HACK Club, Speech and Debate, California Scholarship Federation Dublin Chapter, and more. I will be able to devote time to YAC meetings and activities each month. I manage my time correctly and commit to every activity I participate in.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities by making events more relatable. Teens are more likely to cater to events that align more with their interests. While every teen is different, many have similar interests, like sports, social media, and video games. Altering events to make them more 'teen-friendly' is a way to get more teens involved. In addition, teens are more likely to 'follow the trend,' and making events more trendy is a way to attract teens.

Another way to get teens more involved is by advertising on social media. There could be social media challenges that make the experience more interactive and attract many teens to that event. For example, to advertise the Saint Patrick's Day Parade, there could be games played in class, and contests on social media with a Saint Patrick's Day theme to convince students to attend the parade.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Adithya G Rec Letter.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Aditya.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1017
March 21, 2023
The City of Dublin,
California
Dear Hiring Manager,
I enthusiastically offer this letter in support of Adithya G’s application for a summer internship at the City of Dublin. Adithya has volunteered with Amba Farmers Voice as a Social Media expert, helping us with our social media page – Facebook and Instagram. I found him to be a creative and industrious student who showed a natural flair for both IT and Social Media publishing.

While we have had several volunteers in the past, I can remember few as talented as Adithya. I have no doubt that he will be successful in your summer program and offer my unqualified endorsement.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if there is any other information that I can provide.

Sincerely,
Isaac Zama, Ph.D.

CEO, Amba Farmers Voice
1018
1019

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Praveena
Last Name*
Gollanapalli
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5828 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1020
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Fallon Middle School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 8 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I am interested in exploring the opportunities and activities available for the youth in the city of Dublin. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am observing and understanding the youth in my friends' circle & I believe I can use that experience at YAC. This is my first time applying for YAC, & I wish I learn more about YAC. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
There are a few issues I observe on day to day basis 1. There will be a commuting issue, especially on rainy days at schools, this can be solved by increasing the number of buses. 2. As a girl, I am facing monthly period issues on run days in PE, this can be resolved by knowing the health details of students closely. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently doing martial arts, music & multi-language activities. I can definitely have time to attend YAC meetings as my schedule is completely free on the 4th Wednesday of each month at 7:00 PM (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* By having conversations about city updates frequently.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I didn't get a chance to attend any YAC meetings so far. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Praveena YAC.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1022
3/20/2023
Dear Youth Advisory Committee
During the 2 years I have been Praveena Gollanapalli’s Manager at Website Freelancing, I have witnessed her display exceptional skills as a Design Help and Proof Reading assistant.

To expound further:

Work Dedication
Praveena G is a dedicated and enthusiastic student. She adds a lot of ideas and commitment toward the end result.

Empathy
She cares for her peers and she tries to find the best solutions to their problems. It helps the work ethic and communication in the environment.

Collaboration
She works with her team smoothly. She brings everyone’s ideas together and the end results show exactly that.

I am confident that Praveena's attitude and skills would make her a valuable contributor to your committee. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any additional questions you may have.

Sincerely,
Sri Mudunuru
1023

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Brenda
Last Name*
Gonzalez
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5789 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1024
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* The main motivator for me in terms of becoming a YAC member is my love of this community and the people in it. While I admit I haven't lived here all my life or always been in tune with its opportunities, I do know that that hasnâ€™t stopped me from appreciating the city immensely. Iâ€™ve always wanted a chance to be more involved in this community Iâ€™ve loved living in for years. I had a chance to do this once last year as a leadership student body officer. As an SBO, I got to participate in the School Site Council (SSC). As a part of this council, I provided input from a student's view on issues regarding campus life. I realized then that getting to be a part of a community and all its facets is something Iâ€™m incredibly passionate about. I loved learning about the procedures being put in place to improve the school and the issues that the staff members were actively trying to solve. Most of all, though, I loved having a voice in something bigger than myself. By actively participating in the council, I felt I was giving back to my classmates and every other student in the school, voicing concerns I had heard all around campus. The professional and formal but accepting nature of the council made me fall in love with the experience of sharing ideas and lifting others up while actually having the resources to make big changes. I really want to be a part of something like that again, but on a bigger scale. Thatâ€™s essentially what YAC is. There are so many young people of all ages that experience issues every day, including myself. Even in the little 5th graders I see and educate every day as a T.A., I see problems in the way people are thinking and being treated. I feel that by waiting to address these issues we are only enabling more kids to face them and suffer the consequences. By being a part of YAC, I could work to make real change at a scale larger than Iâ€™ve ever been able to organize. I could finally help solve the problems that make my life challenging to create a better life for kids like my class of 5th graders. Being a voice for the people who feel they have no voice is something I am more passionate about than anything. I know so many young people who are facing real problems but are too scared to try and fix them or donâ€™t know how. I strive to spread awareness for important issues like theirs and unite the cityâ€™s youth under a feeling of safety and freedom. With this, I hope to learn government council systems and make connections with other strong student leaders so we can continue to make progressive changes as we grow older. YAC, to me, is an opportunity of a lifetime. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* One of the skills I possess that I feel is important is my willingness to participate in a lot of different activities and situations. Iâ €™m not one to turn down the opportunity to involve myself in group discussions at all and am always eager to share my take on things. However, I think considering multiple points of view is crucial, so making sure Iâ€™ve said my piece but also being willing to hear others out is important to me. Everyone has a different experience, so hearing the ideas people have based on what theyâ€™ve faced in their lives is something I love. Additionally, Iâ€™ve always been pretty extroverted, so Iâ€™m comfortable around others and am always excited to meet and work with new people. I think itâ€™s awesome when I get to meet others that feel as passionately as I do about leading and making change. On the cuff of that, something that I learned from being a leader and drama student is that teamwork is so crucial. With Leadershipâ€™s constant team-building exercises and Dramaâ€™s need for a united and cohesive cast, working as a team player is a skill Iâ€™ve worked incredibly hard to develop and excel at. I believe that my understanding of teamwork is a great skill to have for a collaborative program such as YAC. Iâ€™m always willing to step in, be a part of a team, and work with others for the benefit of everyone. I realize that nothing will get done by arguing with others and being self-centered, so I always prioritize making decisions that everyone is happy with. My time as a student body officer on the School Site Council taught me a lot about the council format, with minutes, motions, seconds, and votes. I also worked with this system on Cottonwoodâ€™s student council, which I helped lead as another part of my SBO duties. My knowledge of this system from participating in both these councils is a large benefit in my eyes. It means I know how to write agendas, record minutes, lead a council, and make decisions in the council format.

This doesnâ€™t mean that I donâ€™t have plenty to learn, however; I still have so much I want to discover about how city event planning works and how meetings run. This just means I wonâ€™t have any trouble learning the basics of council structure and will be able to jump into the creative part of YAC easier. Finally, Iâ€™m reliable and hard-working. Iâ€™m not afraid to try new things, and Iâ€™ll always be there to help if help is needed. I hate going back on my word. With that, I always make sure to put 110% into everything I commit to and work hard to make things happen. I never want to be disappointed in my final products, so I work tirelessly to produce my best work. I feel that the culmination of all the leadership skills I've gathered makes me a strong candidate for the YAC team.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Some of the biggest issues I see teens in Dublin facing are concerning LGBTQ+ representation and college. Representation is 50/50 for many people in the sense that half of the teens I meet feel itâ€™s critical and the other half will mock any attempt at it. Iâ€™m one of the teens that feel representation is crucial for our community and any community in general because many teens here grew up without much of it. It shows, too. While teachers are doing a fantastic job of making LGBTQ+ students feel welcome and included in their classrooms, many teens canâ€™t seem to embrace their LGBTQ+ classmates in the same way. Those who are out are often ridiculed and bullied, causing those who are closeted to feel unsafe coming out. This is unacceptable, and I think this is largely because LGBTQ+ voices arenâ€™t being elevated enough in schools or the community at all. Just like we celebrate cultural diversity at our schools and take time to educate students about the history of world cultures, we should be celebrating the different types of romantic orientations and gender identities. As a council of teens looking to address important issues, tackling the issue of LGBTQ+ representation will be essential for this reason. Working as a team to assemble educational material for students to explore could be one way of doing this. Highlighting LGBTQ+ representative projects across the community could be another. Whatever way weâ€™d choose, there is absolutely a path that could lead to better representation in the city. Representation isnâ€™t the only issue, however. Many teens begin to feel pressure to think about college prospects, even at a young age. It can be incredibly overwhelming to pick from the thousands of colleges and universities out there, especially while research is plagued by the overwhelming appeal of Ivy Leagues and UCs. In addition, so many young people stress themselves out about requirements and getting as many credits as possible to look like perfect students. Itâ€™s crucial to not push teens so far past their limits and to not set unhealthy expectations on their performance in school. Burnout is a very real thing that I and so many other people my age have experienced. It can sentence young and older teens to mental health struggles harsher than anyone should have to go through at that age. So, how can we help? College fairs are already great resources that cities in the Bay Area are working to implement. Something simple we as YAC members could do is put together a site for college-prospective students that gathers information from across the web about what colleges are looking for. We could interview college students, professors, and admissions officers in the area as well to get their input. Another option would be to sponsor college-related events and talks to get students feeling the most prepared they could be as they begin their transition into college. The resources and events we put together could create a world of confidence in studentsâ€™ minds about their college prospects. This and efforts to improve representation could change the landscape of Dublinâ€™s youth forever.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Currently, Iâ€™m involved in a community theater program named Royal Theater Academy. We rehearse and perform familyfriendly shows for the Bay Area community. Iâ€™m planning to continue to devote time to this program next year, but I may audition for some of the shows put on at Dublin High instead. No matter what kind of show Iâ€™m doing, I will be able to set aside time for meetings and activities each month.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To get other teens involved in events and activities around the community, I feel itâ€™s really important to use strategies that will get them excited to be involved. Social media platforms like Instagram are really important to utilize if teens are going to notice any sort of activity, so I would focus a large amount of energy on that. Creating flyers with good aesthetics for these social media accounts is a part of that I would make sure to touch on, as appealing and themed graphics are a sure way to attract viewers. Reaching out to teens specifically through advertisement of these events is super beneficial as well. Teens are going to want to know that their help specifically is wanted for things like volunteering. Additionally, for volunteering positions itâ €™s more enticing for teens if flyers mention the benefits theyâ€™d be getting from doing this work (volunteer credits, helping improve the community, etc). With events, the most important thing Iâ€™d consider is singling them out. If itâ€™s an event specifically for teens and not for any other age group, that needs to be communicated. When an event has a lot of advertisements featuring younger kids, older teens get the impression that the event is not meant for their age group and wonâ €™t want to go. I would aim to use wording and pictures that market events for kids and teens of all ages. It canâ€™t just be the marketing, however; the event has to actually include fun activities for teens to enjoy themselves. YAC can help a lot with that. With the advice of teens on the committee, we can brainstorm possible additions to events that will make them more appealing for teens. We already have a lot of events to pull from that teens have been known to love; events like the St.

Patrickâ€™s Day Festival and the Alameda County Fair are annual favorites, and for good reason too. The reason that events like these get so much attention from older kids is that theyâ€™re great places to hang out with friends. Rides, games, shopping, and food are all things that teens love to see in events because theyâ€™re fun ways to break from the same old hangout spots. I would work with the council to pull from these appeals in order to make appropriate additions to potential events. I believe that by putting all of these strategies together and working with the council to make the necessary changes, I could help effectively market community events to the young people of the city. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not, though I am interested in attending such meetings in the future. I believe it would be fascinating to learn more about the issues brought up during them.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
B. Gonzalez Letter of Rec.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Brenda G. Letter of Rec.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1027

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
March, 18 2023
Dear Dublin Youth Advisory Committee,
I am writing this letter of recommendation for Brenda Gonzalez. Without reservation, I highly recommend Brenda Gonzalez to be a part of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have been a middle school leadership teacher for seventeen years. I have been a member of CADA (California Association of Activities Directors) for over ten years. I have participated in numerous CADA state conventions, summer leadership camps and student conference days.

Brenda was elected as a student body officer for last school year. She exemplifies all of the Dublin Integrity in Action Character Traits. Brenda is responsible, respectful, giving, caring, cooperative, honest, does her best, is trustworthy, and has a positive attitude and self discipline.

I would say that Brenda’s strengths are in her organizational skills, focus and positive attitude.

Not only has Brenda been enrolled in the student leadership class, she has also been a part of the K-8 drama program for at least four years. Both of these programs require a great deal of organization, focus and follow through. Brenda thrives effortlessly on these two programs. Her commitment to all of her classes has never been questioned.

I have known Brenda for five years as a student, a leader in my classroom, and as a school wide student leader and student body officer. I would describe Brenda as bright and positive in nature, as well as one who takes initiative and is honest and hardworking. Brenda consistently pursued to achieve high marks, produced work of the highest quality, was a dependable team player, and set an example for achievement and service during her tenure at Cottonwood Creek K-8.

Brenda is the kind of person that is not afraid to ask questions and will work hard to achieve high results. During the years of knowing Brenda, I became very aware of her ability to seek out challenges as well as her determination to conquer those challenges all while having an amazingly positive attitude.

In my professional opinion, Miss Gonzalez will be both an excellent addition and an asset to any organization that chooses to accept her.

Sincerely,
Natalie Young
Instructor of Student Leadership Elective and Physical Education 2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1 1028

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D., Principal To Whom it May Concern,
My name is Mrs. Rebecca Teames and I am very happy to recommend Brenda Gonzalez for the Dublin Youth Advisory Council.

It is my good fortune to be Brenda’s teacher for the third year. She has been in my drama class for three years and is now also in my 8th grade history class. Brenda excels in all academic areas. She is conscientious, insightful, and mature. She is an exceptional writer and public speaker and always strives to go above and beyond. She is respected by her peers and demonstrates excellent leadership and teamwork skills when working with others.

I also have the pleasure of working with Brenda as her theater director. This is Brenda’s second year participating in our spring musical. She is a talented actor, singer, and dancer, which has earned her lead roles in both productions. Her character offstage is even more impressive, often stepping in to help mentor and lead younger performers. She is always on time, prepared, and enthusiastic.

Brenda applies her talents in additional productions through a community theater company, requiring her to manage her time wisely which she does exceedingly well.

Brenda is well-known by staff and students in our school community, and for good reason. She is involved in many activities, including our WEB leadership program. When she commits to an activity or project she follows through and goes above and beyond. She is reliable, dependable, and always demonstrates a positive, cooperative attitude. When teachers look for a student to take on challenges or responsibility, Brenda’s name is often at the top of the list.

Brenda is an extraordinary student and person. She has a positive impact on the people and activities she engages with. I have no doubt that the same will be true of the Youth Advisory Council, and it is my honor to recommend her without reservation.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Rebecca Teames
8th Grade US History Teacher
Humanities Lead
Drama Director
Cottonwood Creek School
1029

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Saanvi
Last Name*
Gudisay
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5824 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1030
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* As the average teenager does, I have grown to develop my own opinions on subjects that I might not have even considered a couple years ago. But at the age of 14, maturity isnâ€™t a concept that adults assume I adhere to. I want to be able to voice those thoughts and opinions in an environment where theyâ€™ll be considered without the doubt that my experience or adolescence conflicts with the sincerity and aptitude of what my words offer. Being a part of the Youth Advisory Committee, I have the opportunity to provide new perspectives in areas that may have appeared black and white in our community until now while also creating opportunities for other teens that have been restricted from sharing their true opinions. I would be able to advocate for those that resonate with the same thoughts as me, but not every teenager shares the same ideas that I have. In YAC, I will meet others that have their own opinions and mentalities which will help me broaden my knowledge on how different individuals process occurrences in our society and how that affects the decisions they make. This experience overall would strengthen my ability to communicate, problem-solve and lead a community so that it thrives. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I believe the most important attribute in a leader or representative is their ability to both speak and listen. I often get told by my friends that I never know when to shut up as a joke, but what better way to discover more than to express thoughts with others who can then feed off and say more? Every individual has their own intricate way of interpreting their surroundings though it isnâ €™t until those conceptions are shared within groups that we as a population are able to create solutions or understandings of each other. Iâ€™ve implemented this method of discovery in how I communicate with people every day. I focus on sharing what I know and what intrigues me; what is new and afloat in my mind currently? I constantly speak about topics, urgent or random, knowing the next person that provides their insight will be significantly different from the last; then, I listen. I pay attention to the varying convictions between individuals and what the reason for those differences might be because every opinion is valuable in its own way. By speaking and also listening, I would be able to gather and provide information and perceptions from many groups and the Youth Advisory Committee would be able to use that to develop ideas or solutions that would benefit our community as a whole.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
An issue Iâ€™ve noticed that has never been properly solved is the usage of drugs in teenagers. Although the act is obviously punished when found out by adults and school authorities, the greatest action Iâ€™ve seen in opposition is to shut down school bathrooms where it happens most often. This just leads to students finding other secluded areas on campus where they are able to get away with it. In order to deal with an issue as wide-scaled as substance abuse, we would need to tackle the origin of the issue, which begins at where the drugs are being sold and why the teenagers are interested in buying them. As the YAC, it is difficult for us to deal with substance sellers but we can investigate why they are being bought by teens. The use of drugs typically ties into mental health and turning to substance as an escape and source of pleasure. We can offer experienced peer counseling to help teens work on their issues or any other factors that may lead them to using drugs. We can also educate students within schools through programs that emphasize the negative turnout of drug usage and inform them that there are resources that can help them through their addiction. The committee can also organize events that provide these teenagers ways to spend their time in recreational activities or group bonding to spend their time more positively and around influences that will stray them away from their addiction. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I partake in speech through my schoolâ€™s speech and debate club which I will continue through next year. I also play on my school's varsity badminton team and Iâ€™m currently preparing for the level 8 MTAC piano exam. I would have enough time to attend all the YAC meetings as well as the activities.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Social media like Instagram and Tiktok are where the majority of teens tend to spend their time. By taking advantage of the platform that the Dublin city account already has and promoting mainly through that would be extremely effective in spreading information on our events. I have had experience making various promotional Instagram posts through managing the Instagram for my leadership class, my badminton team, and when I ran for class officer so I would use that knowledge as an asset to how to properly advertise with teens. With high schoolers, it is difficult to convince them to take time out of their busy schedules to partake in a community event. An incentive would be effective in getting them to go. This could be offering signed volunteer hours for participating or prizes by implementing a competition in the event. The events can also be more directed towards what teenagers are interested in like particular artists or types of music, games or rides, and food or beverages that appeal the most to them. Since the majority of the YAC are Dublin High School students, we could also try and convince the office to announce city events through the weekly announcements, on the schoolwide email and texts, and put flyers across the school. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not attended a recent meeting but I am interested in and will likely attend the next one. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Saanvi Gudisay.pdf
1032
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1033

DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL
“THE GAEL FORCE”
A California Distinguished School
Maureen Byrne, Principal Whitney Dwyer, Assistant Principal Kevin Cushing, Assistant Principal Diane Santamorena, Assistant Principal Lisa Diaconis, Assistant Principal Andrew Waranoff, Assistant Principal To Whom It May Concern:

It is my privilege to write this letter of recommendation for Saanvi Gudisay. Saanvi is a student in my Biology course this year. This courses gave me the opportunity to witness Saanvi’s work ethic, abilities, and curiosity. I can confidently say that in a year that presents many obstacles and challenges, Saanvi displays perseverance, tenacity, and resilience on a level that is rare among her peers. There is no need to look further than this application process to see an example of her drive and determination.

Saanvi pushes herself to be engaged in a well-balanced life filled with curricular and extracurricular activities. Her participation in HOSA, summer advancement courses, and advanced level courses do not keep her from sharing her energy and kindness with her classmates. Maintaining this balance of high rigor academic involvement while continuing to be engaged and looking to improve her understanding is a challenge that is commendable.

It is with full confidence that I say Saanvi will be an asset to the Youth Advisory Committee of Dublin. Her self-awareness and intrinsic motivation ensure that she directs her energy where necessary while her interpersonal communication skills and versatility make her a highly sought-after member of any team.

Saanvi is a motivated and passionate student who seeks out challenges and thrives in solo and group scenarios. Her desire to improve and challenge herself is a quality that is commendable and will benefit her beyond the classroom as she pursues her interests. I am certain that she will succeed at whatever she puts his attention and focus towards. Please feel free to contact me with any further questions at Best regards,
Kendon Matkins
Science Teacher
Dublin High School
8151 Village Parkway
Dublin, California 94568-1699
(925) 833-3300
Main FAX (925) 833-3322
Admin FAX (925) 833-3344
Athletics/Activities Fax 925) 833-3347
1034

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Akash
Last Name*
Guntamadugu
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5780 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1035
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* In my opinion, joining the YAC is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the community and make a positive impact on the lives of young people in the City of Dublin. Being part of the YAC allows students, such as myself to voice their opinions, advocate for their needs and work together with other young people and adults in the community to make the City of Dublin a better place for future generations. Additionally, being part of this committee can enhance my public-speaking skills and give me experience by being placed in a real-world situation where I can collaborate with other committee members, share my ideas, and listen to others' perspectives. By actively participating in the committee's meetings and events, I can gain further practical experience in leadership, problem-solving, decision-making, and critical thinking. These skills can be valuable in both personal and professional contexts and can prepare me for future opportunities and challenges. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Firstly, my experience serving as an assistant teacher to teach youth a foreign language has assisted me in honing my leadership skills. I have had the opportunity to plan lessons, organize activities, and lead group discussions. By taking on this leadership role, I have developed my ability to motivate young people and foster a positive and inclusive learning environment.

These leadership skills can be valuable in the YAC as it involves collaborating with other members to initiate, plan and execute events and activities that serve the youth of the City of Dublin. Secondly, I also possess strong communication skills, both verbal and written. I am comfortable speaking in groups, expressing my opinions, and standing as a robust advocate for my ideas. Furthermore, I am an active listener and value diverse perspectives, which proves to be essential in a committee setting where distinct views are proposed. I strongly believe that my ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with others will allow me to contribute effectively to the YAC and help create positive change for the youth in the City of Dublin. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
In the modern era, teens are dealing with various issues such as mental health concerns, substance abuse, technology addiction, and issues of equality and justice. As a member of the YAC, I believe we can address these issues by promoting awareness, education, and support. For instance, we can collaborate with local mental health organizations to provide resources, support, and safe spaces for young people to talk about their mental health concerns. Additionally, we can partner with substance abuse prevention and treatment organizations to provide young people with information on healthy coping mechanisms and resources for seeking help. To address the issue of technology addiction, we can organize events focused on promoting a healthy balance between technology use and real-life connections. Regarding the issue of equality and justice, the YAC can actively promote inclusivity and diversity by holding events that celebrate cultural differences and provide education on issues related to diversity and inclusion. We can also advocate for policies that address systemic issues and work towards creating a more equitable and just society. By working together, the YAC can provide a platform for young people to address these issues and create meaningful change in their community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Thank you for asking about my activities and availability for the upcoming school year. Currently, I am involved in several activities, some of the most time-consuming ones include robotics and badminton. I am dedicating 10 hours per week to robotics and 6 hours per week to badminton as well as a few other activities such as teaching. While these activities are important to me, I am committed to finding a balance between my extracurriculars and any commitments that I make to the Dublin Youth Advisory Council. I am fully aware of the responsibilities that come with being a member of the YAC, including attending meetings and participating in activities. I am prepared to make the necessary adjustments to my schedule to ensure that I can attend all YAC meetings and activities as needed. I am committed to finding ways to balance my existing extracurricular activities with my responsibilities to the YAC, and I am confident that I can devote the time necessary to make a meaningful contribution to the council.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Working with local schools and youth organizations to identify and promote relevant and appealing events to teenagers can be a great way that gets other teens involved in the community. Social media platforms can also be leveraged to reach a broader audience and generate buzz around upcoming activities. By using influencers to spread the word and generate excitement, it may be possible to increase participation and engagement among more modern teens. Another effective strategy is to give teens a sense of responsibility and agency can help to create a more inclusive and engaging environment, and may encourage more young people to get involved. Additionally, offering incentives such as community service hours or recognition for outstanding contributions can help to motivate participation further and encourage teens to take an active role in building a stronger, more vibrant community.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* At the moment I have not due to only being aware of the program at the beginning of March. Nevertheless, I have looked through a couple of the archives of recent years and gained a general idea of what the committee is about and is focused on accomplishing.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Akash Guntamadugu-2023.pdf
1037
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Akash - letter of recommendation (2).pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1038
Letter of Recommendation
March 23, 2023,
Selection Committee
Youth Advisory Committee
Dear Selection Committee,
During Akash's time working as my assistant teacher, I had numerous opportunities to observe him in a variety of situations. He consistently demonstrated an ability to take initiative and work collaboratively with others. Not only was he diligent in completing his assigned tasks, but he also proactively sought out additional responsibilities. This demonstrated a high level of motivation and dedication to the work, and his initiative was a valuable asset to our team.

Akash's strong leadership skills were particularly evident in his interactions with students as I have always been impressed by the way he positively impacts them.

Overall, I believe that Akash's combination of leadership skills, communication abilities, and dedication to education make him an excellent candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Council.

I do not doubt that he would make a positive contribution to the council and be an asset to any team he works with.

Sincerely,
Pallavi Chirakala
1039
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
March 23, 2023
Selection Committee
Youth Advisory Committee
Dear Selection Committee,
It is my pleasure to recommend Akash Guntamadugu for placement on the Youth Advisory Committee in Dublin, CA. It has been a pleasure watching him grow in my Advanced Algebra 2 class this year and to watch him develop into a contributing member of my class. After reading more about this opportunity, I believe Akash will be a great asset to the program.

The members of this committee are students who are concerned with youth issues in the community and are able to have conversations with others in the community. Akash has adapted very well to my unique group-based learning environment He does a very good job of both listening to classmates explain their solutions as well as voice his ideas.

I have no reservations recommending Akash for this great program. I have no doubt he will represent the youth of the community well. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding his character, past academic work, or any other qualifications related to the program.

Sincerely,
Jaime Roberts
Mathematics Teacher
Dublin High School

DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL
2017 GOLD RIBBON SCHOOL
8151 Village Parkway, Dublin, CA 94568 ● 925-833-3300 ● FAX 925-833-3322 1040

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Rashi
Last Name*
Gupta
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5707 Date Submitted: 3/18/2023
1041
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* Sophomore/10th Grader

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I aspire to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee to be further involved in the programs offered by the city, be a part of the positive impact the YAC has on Dublin teenagers. I value the idea of bringing ideas and concepts created by myself and my fellow peers to life as actions. There are many activities or changes that teenagers strongly wish to for to happen in our community, but sometimes may be reluctant or feel like they do not have the opportunity to voice their views. Being a part of the YAC would allow me to positively represent our city's teenagers and youth, with fellow peers and teammates.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I believe that I am a strong candidate for the YAC due to my leadership and teamwork skills. As a martial arts instructor, I consistently and successfully teach students complex martial art techniques, while also mentoring them on various life lessons. Oftentimes, I interact with parents or students of all age groups, ranging from preschoolers to adults, and this requires different types and levels of communication. Being an official employee of a martial arts dojo, and having job experience, has taught me to be proactive and enhanced my interpersonal skills with parents, students, and fellow teammates or colleagues.

Through my martial arts journey, I have learned how to be persistent and self-driven and used these skills on multiple occasions, not just at the dojo. I value and demonstrate the skills of being an active teammate, and supporting my fellow peers by being a motivated leader, but also an intent listener. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I believe that two of the main issues Dublin teens are currently dealing with are stress and vaping, or other substance usage.

For starters, many teenagers feel stressed to meet expectations set by society, social media, their parents or event the expectations they set for them selves. The stress of having the most community service hours and projects, or being the best student, or even getting into the most prestigious university, negatively affects the mental health of many teens in Dublin.

Stigma surrounding mental health, that is prevalent in many families, makes it difficult for teenagers to reach out to counselors or other trusted adults for help. I believe that teenagers find it easier to speak with and open to their peers, who they share a smaller age gap with, because there is a high chance that another teenager may be feeling the same way. The YAC could set up a judgement-free, and possibly anonymous communication method between teenagers, and this solution can exist outside of a formal school setting. Secondly, I believe that many teenagers in Dublin suffer with addictions to substances, especially vaping. Vaping is a result of peer pressure and stress, and has detrimental side affects to a person's health. While there are many presentations and lectures in schools about not vaping or abusing substances, I have noticed that many teenagers do not always take heed to these warnings, because these presentations seem like "classroom material." Dublin already has poster contests about vaping, but the YAC could possibly expand awareness outside of schools by implementing student-led skits. Teenagers may be more engaged when they have a performance to watch, especially when led by peers, which can lead to them taking more warning and caution surrounding vaping and drugs. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Currently, I am an Instructor at a martial arts dojo in Dublin, known as Empower Martial Arts. In the past few months, I have recently joined their staff to be an assistant instructor, and recently was promoted and earned the official title of an "Instructor." A major part of this job and commitment is being present and active on the mat multiple days a week, to teach students of all age groups various martial art techniques. I regularly focus on improving and enhancing my skills as a Black Belt and continue to attend at least one training session a week along with teaching. Providing service to the community is also something I enjoy doing, and being a part of my dojo's staff gives me the opportunity to participate and volunteer in many of the events in Dublin. Additionally, I like to engage in the multiple clubs and activities Dublin High School has. I am an active member of the California Scholarship Federation (CSF), and the MÃ©decins Sans FrontiÃ¨res (MSF) club as well. In the next year, I will continue to be an Instructor at Empower Martial Arts, as well as continuing to be a member, or possibly board member, in clubs around my campus. I do believe that I will be able to dedicate and devote time to YAC meetings and activities, especially because I truly want to become a member of the committee. Having an official job at the martial arts dojo I work in, has taught me to be dependable and developed my skills in time management. I will continue to use these skills as a member of YAC, while also balancing other activities in a quality manner. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I believe taking advantage of the widespread reach and power social media has, can be a method of getting teenagers involved in the community, teen events and City-sponsored activities. Many teenagers have at least some form of social media or technology, where they can stay connected with other peers and the latest trends. Gaining participation and involvement from teenagers in City events, may become easier by utilizing Dublin's social media platforms to spread information about these events. There are higher chances that a teenagers would read posts on Instagram, especially with the features of reposting on a person's story, than stopping to read an actual flyer. I also think that many teenagers value being able to make their own decisions, especially when they are participating in events affecting the community, which does affect them as well. Allowing teenagers to play a unique role in City events, may make them more keen to become more involved. Options may include using forms or polls to gather data about what activities should be held at certain events, and then possibly using this data in event planning. This can provide teenagers with more initiative to stay involved in their community, while also allowing the City to maintain a proper amount of organization when planning City-sponsored activities and events. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting, (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Letter of Rec - Rashi G - March 2023.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
R. Gupta LOR (1).pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1044
Mar 13, 2023
To Whom It May Concern,
I have known Rashi since the Fall of 2022 and enjoyed being her 9th grade math teacher. Rashi is a wonderful person and student, and it has been a pleasure to get to know her over the course of the school year. She is kind and thoughtful and is incredibly responsible, especially for a young student taking a rigorous course load. Rashi always comes to class prepared and ready to learn, and asks very thoughtful questions about the content. She is respectful and understanding of the needs of everyone in the classroom.

Rashi is also a highly sought after and wonderful team member. No matter who she works with, she is always graceful, patient and respectful to her peers. She does an excellent job explaining concepts to classmates who struggle with the material. Rashi does an excellent job of ensuring that her groups stay on task and complete their assignments, but also keeping the environment friendly and congenial. She is very good at prioritizing what they need to do, how to divide up work, and keeping everyone involved so they feel they have contributed. Because she always does quality work, her teammates value her and trust her leadership.

Rashi is a very engaged and responsible student. She is one of my very strongest students this year and her academic record reflects this high performance in all of her classes. Rashi has excelled at her academics because she has strong organizational skills and time management. One reason that Rashi is able to do so well is that she is only involved in activities that she cares about. She has been extremely dedicated to martial arts, and she also cares a lot about the Dublin community. She would be an asset to the Youth Advisory Committee because she has passion for making Dublin a great place to grow up, she is extremely competent and organized, and is phenomenal at working in a team.

Rashi is a very good-natured, mature and respectful young woman. She is the type of person who will continue to work hard to achieve her goals. She is a motivated student and I am confident that she will do great things on the Youth Advisory Committee. If you need further information please contact me at Kathryn Maurer
Math Teacher, Dublin High School
1045
1046

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Aaliyah
Last Name*
Hasni
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5815 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1047
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* By being a part of the Dublin Youth Advisory, I will be able to represent high school scholar-athletes to provide positive input on our city. I believe that being a community member as a teenager can be a highly rewarding experience. It provides an opportunity to make a positive impact on the world around me, build new skills, and make connections with like-minded individuals. Volunteering will allow me to give back to the community, helping to address issues that are important to me and contribute to the betterment of society. I will also develop my leadership and teamwork abilities, as well as my communication and problem-solving skills. Feedback from the youth is crucial for cities because they represent a significant portion of the population, and their perspectives and needs are unique. Youth bring fresh ideas, new perspectives, and diverse experiences that can help cities address current and future challenges. I want to be a part of the Dublin Youth Advisory to voice my feedback about the youth of Dublin, and to make a difference in our city. By incorporating myself into the Youth Advisory Committee, I will be able to relate the voices of high school medical students, honors students, and varsity athletes- as I am all of these things myself. I look forward to putting my connections to use for the betterment of our city. I value the importance of this Committee, because I am aware that cities that actively seek and incorporate feedback from the youth can ensure that their policies and programs are inclusive, relevant, and effective. For instance, involving youth in the planning process for community spaces such as parks or recreational areas can lead to the creation of spaces that are more appealing and accessible to young people. Furthermore, engaging with the youth can also help cities identify and address issues that are specific to young people, such as affordable housing, job opportunities, and access to education and healthcare. By prioritizing the needs of the youth, cities can create more vibrant and sustainable communities that benefit all residents. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* High school students are often seen as good representatives of youth because we are at a critical juncture in their lives where we are transitioning into adulthood, and are beginning to develop our own opinions, beliefs, and values. Moreover, I am typically more connected than others to the current social, political, and cultural issues affecting young people than older adults, as I am active on social media and engage in discussions with my peers about such topics. Furthermore, since I am multi-ethnic, I can bring ideas of cultural enrichment to Dublin. Ethnic diversity brings new cultures, traditions, and customs to a community. This can lead to greater cultural exchange, which can enrich the community and broaden its perspective. It can also lead to the development of new art, music, and literature, which can add to the community's overall cultural richness. As a multi-cultural community member, I can offer diversity and I can offer a fresh perspective to Dublin and be more open-minded to new ideas and ways of thinking. As a scholar-varsity athlete, I'm a great representative for the youth in Dublin. My strong teamwork and leadership skills have been developing over the years. I actively participate in leadership conferences, such as Dublin HOSA and Dublin CSF. My teamwork and cooperation skills have been acknowledged in years past from volleyball, where I have been team captain for both club and school. Specifically, my first hand experiences with politics and school make me a great candidate for the YAC. I have attended a variety of amazing volunteering events from which I met great people. I enjoy socializing and networking, and I tend to attract people because of my bubbly and positive personality. On the more political aspect, I have helped family members in years prior to campaign for city board positions. From these experiences, I have received great insight on the courses of action and strategies for politics. Aside from my experience, I feel its important to incorporate students who are involved in sports and clubs. Finally, I believe that we high school students are also part of a demographic that is often overlooked in mainstream politics and decision-making processes, and by giving us a platform to voice their opinions and ideas, you can ensure that our perspectives and needs are being heard and considered. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
There are several issues that high schoolers are currently facing in California. Some of these include: Mental Health: Many high schoolers in Dublin are struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress. This can be due to academic pressure, social isolation, and the ongoing pandemic. As an extremely academically competitive school, the standards are constantly being raised for teens, which can lead to high amounts of pressure and stress. Solution: The YAC should manage that Emerald High and Dublin High should provide counseling services, mental health resources, and create safe spaces for students to discuss their mental health concerns. Encouraging peer support groups and programs that promote mindfulness and stress-management techniques can also be helpful. College Admissions: The college admissions process can be stressful and overwhelming for many high school students in Dublin particularly those from low-income families or underrepresented groups. Solution: The YAC should implement the schools provide resources and support for students navigating the college admissions process, including college fairs, college application workshops, and financial aid information sessions. They can also partner with community organizations and colleges to provide mentorship programs and scholarships for students in need. Academic Burnout: Having to maintain a good GPA while enduring ongoing amounts of pressure from peers and family is very relevant at Dublin High. From my 2 years of attending this school, I have noticed that honors and AP students are experiencing burnout, and they don't have the same drive or motivation as they once did. Solution: Provide academic support- Schools can offer academic support such as tutoring, study groups, and study skills workshops to help students manage their workload and improve their academic performance. oster a supportive learning environment- Schools can create a supportive learning environment by encouraging open communication, providing emotional support, and promoting a positive and inclusive school culture. This can help students feel more connected to their peers and teachers and less isolated and overwhelmed.
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* During the school year, semester one I will be playing volleyball at the varsity level. My practices will be after school, however the time of the meetings for the YAC is beneficial to me, as it is after my scheduled practice time. However, should something come up and my practice time interferes with the YAC meetings and activities, I am prepared to make those adjustments because this will be my priority. Furthermore, second semester I will be running track at the varsity level. Again, I am prepared to make adjustments to be able to attend the meetings, however they most likely won't interfere. Besides sports, I will also be actively participating in school clubs such as HOSA, MSF, and CSF to maintain and build my leadership skills. As extracurriculars and programs, I will be starting my research project on Artificial Tissues and Organs, and will also still be actively volunteering in the community. Yes, I will be able to devote time each month for the YAC meetings and activities. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* 1) I would get other teens involved in the community by promoting on social media. I think that, especially with Gen "Z", social media is a great platform to get through to teens and get them involved. Social media platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok can be powerful tools for reaching out to teens and promoting city events. I can create social media accounts for the event or partner with local influencers or student leaders to help spread the word. 2) Furthermore, I would get teens involved in planning. One thing I know for sure about Dublin High School students is that they love the volunteer hours. Teens are more likely to attend events if they feel like they have a say in what's happening. I would suggest getting teens involved in the planning process, either by soliciting their ideas or by creating someone to help plan and promote events. 3) Partner with schools! Partnering with the new Emerald High or Dublin High would be a great way to get other teens involved. Schools are an excellent resource for reaching out to teens and promoting events. We can either can partner with local high schools and middle schools to create posters, flyers, and announcements that promote the event. 4) Create engaging events. Teens are more likely to attend events that feature engaging and exciting activities. I would suggest including interactive activities such as games, contests, and demonstrations that will appeal to a younger audience. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not, but I look forward to in the future!
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
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Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
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Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1050
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Aswitha
Last Name*
Jegadheesh
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5711 Date Submitted: 3/19/2023
1052
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee as advocating for the voices of not only my peers but kids younger than me who never get the opportunity to decide how things are run within the city they live in, Dublin. Being an active member of the city of Dublin also gives me a different perspective on how changes can and are made on a day-to-day basis. As a young child growing up in Dublin, I had always looked forward to the different events the city had to offer us. However, my friends and I often found ourselves waiting long periods of time for a new event to be made, which is something I'd like to improve as a Youth Advisory Committee member. Although being older, I'm able to understand the amount of time and planning required to plan such events, I also understand my younger self's anxiousness to attend all these fun events whenever they were going on. With the two perspectives of my younger self and my friends, as well as the extensive planning that goes into all Dublin city events, I feel as though I could help create a fun and stimulating environment for the youth of Dublin. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Through my experiences of constantly working with my peers as well younger kids in dance, taekwondo, as well as being a teacher assistant at California Tamil Academy, I've developed essential skills such as patience, having an open mind, adaptability, a good sense of understanding, as well as efficient decision making. These skills all accumulate into being a good leader but more importantly, they factor well into what makes a good group collaborator. I'm a person who's always willing to listen as growing up, I'd find myself not being listened to enough, which would allow me to help the ideas of my peers to be heard and acknowledged. As all 3 of these activities foster kids from all around Dublin, I'm constantly surrounded by the input of the youth community. Whether it being excited about the St.Patrick's day parade and carnival, Splatter, trunk-or-treat, and the various amounts of both holiday and non-holiday events that the members of the city of Dublin are constantly planning, I'm able to achieve a deep understanding of what our current youth enjoys, and what they want to happen in Dublin! (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
There are several issues that teens in Dublin are dealing with. However, I feel as though their problems aren't necessarily the absolute root of their feelings but moreover, the fact of them not having any sort of outlet to let go of these feelings. Because of this, the Youth Advisory Committee could create several different things or activities to help teens in our community cope.

Whether it was anonymous areas where they could simply just write out everything that they're feeling, as that is proven to help relieve the said feelings at times, create different environments or safe spaces throughout the month where teens could either talk to one another or a professional about what exactly it is that they're going through. Often times not just in our Dublin community, teens' personal problems worsen as they have nobody to talk to them about and leave themselves to be swallowed in their sorrows. Although there are many different ways to go about helping Dublin teens with their problems and issues, it is definitely something that can be solved and implemented through the Youth Advisory Committee. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.) 1053

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I'm currently and for the 2023-2024 school year will be involved in dance, taekwondo, and volunteering. I've been Bollywood dancing for the past 6 years and wanted to continue my passion for dance within Dublin High. Upon this, I joined Dublin High School Naach Dikhadae and have been a part of the club since my freshman year and next year, I plan on having an officer position! As for taekwondo, I've been a Kukkiwon certified 1st-degree black since 2021 and will be working towards my second degree in the coming school year. Lastly, in terms of volunteering, I am a teaching assistant at California Tamil Academy where I am constantly working with young kids who are aspiring to stay in touch with their mother-tongue language of Tamil. Although these are time-consuming activities, they will not clash with the Wednesday meeting times that the Youth Advisory Committee will be meeting in throughout the year.
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5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved with the city of Dublin as a whole mostly through advertising, as in my opinion, it is the best way to spread and bring awareness to different things. I would repost any Instagram-made posts on my story for all my friends and peers to see, a lot of teachers on the Dublin High campus allow for students to write any upcoming events on their whiteboards for all of their classes to see, and I would definitely talk advantage of that. Apart from that, I would let my peers in dance and taekwondo know about any and all upcoming events happening within Dublin, even if they aren't living in Dublin as well, as they could potentially bring more people they know to said events as well. Among the teenage community, social media is definitely the best and most efficient to let people know what is happening all around them, whether they live in the area or not. With the various social media platforms I have, I definitely believe that my peers would become more involved in the Dublin community overall seeing these events through forms of advertising. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Aswitha Jegadheesh letter.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1054
March 15, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

It is a pleasure to write to you on behalf of Aswitha Jegadheesh, a student in my Sophomore English class for the 2022-2023 school year. Aswitha is an excellent student with many positive qualities. She always goes above and beyond on her assignments and is always willing to help other students with difficult concepts. In group settings, she has proven herself to be a strong leader.

In addition to her academic attributes, Aswitha is very active in extra curricular activities. She volunteers as a teacher’s assistant at California Tamil Academy where she helps students appreciate their culture, she is certified 1st Degree Black Belt from Kukkiwon World Taekwondo Headquarters. She also is part of the Legends of Bollywood Club and DHS Naach Dikhadae. Aswitha is fluent in English and Tamil and is learning Spanish. She belongs to several organizations such as Girls 4 Sports, Destination Graduation, CardsForKindness and P.A.T.C.H. All of these activities and organizations help make Aswitha a stellar candidate for Dublin Youth Advisory. I recommend her highly.

Sincerely,
Patricia McGinley
DHS English Teacher
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Zayan
Last Name*
Kajani
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5661 Date Submitted: 3/13/2023
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City*
dublin
State*
ca
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dorris Eaton
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 7th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* My parents moved to Dublin right after they got married. Dublin was their first home together. My sister and I were both born in the area and have only known Dublin as our home. Every change I have witnessed in this town has been exciting for our family.

I remember when the new BART station opened, and also touring Kaiser hospital when it first opened. I remember when so many shopping centers made their mark on this town. I loved going to the new Whole Foods for the first time. Many of my friends and I saw Cottonwood School being built, and some even attended there, I attended the new opening of the cricket field at Fallon Sports Park, and now I live very close to the new high school that is about to open that I may attend one day. Each and every one of these has made a change in my life, big or small, and I want to positively effect my community as well. I want to give back to this community. I was born here and that means a lot to me. The community that I am a product of. This place means so much to me and I want to make my mark on this place that I call home. I want to make sure that I do my part in making sure Dublin is a safe, inclusive, and welcoming community. I want to learn and understand the inner workings of how a city like Dublin is run. I believe my strong skill set accompanied with my good attitude and my openness to learn is differentiated. I want to inspire a kid to try for a position in their city government by seeing another kid making a difference, even a small one in their daily lives. Maybe my small part will encourage a child to make a difference in their community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I feel I possess many skills that would make me a strong candidate for this position. Firstly, I am a leader. Whenever we have group projects at school, I take the role of a leader and attempt to be a force of reason. I make sure to listen to everyoneâ€™s ideas and encourage others to give their input before we make a decision. I do this because I feel that a good leader should lead by consensus. Secondly, I know what it takes to inspire people to help others. I have started multiple GoFundMes to raise money for different causes I support. One of them was when I raised money for a school in Antioch that wasn't able to afford school supplies for students to learn from home during Covid. I bought different items in bulk at the Dollar Store and packed over 500 packages of supplies for each individual child. Because it was during Covid, I worked only with my sister, mom, and dad in our garage. During this task, I also learned a lot about teamwork and through a bit of trial and error, I learned that even though it was "my" project, I should still let others take control in areas they excel at. I also feel that I can empathize with anybody we are helping. I am Muslim and for our holy month of Ramadan, we don't eat or drink from sunrise to sunset so we appreciate what we have, and most importantly, gain empathy towards the people who are less fortunate. I believe this has strengthened my ability to empathize with others. Finally, I feel I have a good heart and am willing to put in the effort. Using the example of the GoFundMe I mentioned above, my teacher told us about how her friend, who worked at a school in Antioch, didnâ€™t have school supplies and how lucky we were to have these privileges. When I got home, I told my parents about how I wanted to help. They suggested that I help one class of 20 students, but I wanted to help the whole school, and so with the support of others, we did just that! After I finished my homework, each night for a month, I would find all the best deals for school supplies and put the prices into an excel spreadsheet to try to get the most out of each dollar of donation. Throughout my life, I have thought with my heart first, and then applied my mind to find a solution that works, which is why I feel I would be a good candidate for this position.
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
There are a many issues teens in Dublin deal with, but I believe the most important of which is the fact that the youth community of Dublin needs to gain a sense of unity and camaraderie. I have the good fortune of going to a very small school with only 100 people in the middle school wing and due to this small environment, I have met and know every middle school student. Because of this, I feel known, heard, welcomed, and gained a sense of unity with my fellow students. This has given a boost to my personal self-esteem and confidence. This is a feeling I believe can be gained through any team sport. Those who aren't part of teams or active social groups aren't able to gain that sense of unity, and often have less confidence and selfesteem, which I firmly believe are critical in todayâ€™s world. The YAC could create more after school activities for teams, clubs, etc., to facilitate this sense of belonging to those for those who don't have the opportunity. The other major issue that I believe the youth community of Dublin is dealing with is the inability to connect with their school counselors. The counselors don't see the problems that the students bring to them in the same light as the students. It is not the counselor's fault, as they see it from their generationâ€™s perspective and that is often very different from what the students see. This makes the students feel significant helplessness and anxiety when there is a real need to see a counselor. Because of this, some kids will try to fix their problem themselves. If we had a committee of similar aged youth trained appropriately from YAC, we could create a peer based solution. The students could still go to the counselors if they like, but we can offer this as an alternative solution for those students that feel they arenâ€™t being heard. This would help kids come out of their shell and feel comfortable talking about their issues. Additionally, the kids who are helping their peers will gain knowledge about social emotional learning helping both sides profit emotionally and mentally.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am part of many different activities outside of school. I play the guitar, I play cricket, and I play flag football. I am devoted to all of these, but I have the classes only once or twice a week so I will definitely be able to make time for the YAC meetings and activities. I am also very passionate about helping the community, so if I am fortunate enough to get the opportunity, I will give it the attention it deserves.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved in the community by using â€œpositiveâ€ peer pressure. Teens want to hang out with other teens, so it is important that we make it â€œcoolâ€ to help the community. At our local mosque we hosted a monthly refugee bazaar and allowed refugees to come and take anything they needed, but made it a â€œdignifiedâ€ shopping like experience.

We were able to get many teens to come and help. The teens wanted to come because they got to hang out with their friends, and while they did that, they also helped the community. Finally we could put in an incentive for the kids to come - maybe work with a local sponsor - say an ice cream shop, etc., so the teens that participate get a voucher to get a free product. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No I have not.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Dear Youth Advisory Committee.docx
1058
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Letter of Recommendation for Zayan Kajani .pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1059
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Mary McHugh
Dear Youth Advisory Committee (YAC),
I am honored to write a letter recommending Zayan Kajani as a strong candidate for the Youth Advisory Committee. I first met Zayan in 2020 during the pandemic when the world and education faced unprecedented times. This young man was so moved by a discussion in his fourth-grade classroom addressing the dichotomy between the opportunities he and his classmates were afforded and my students in a Title 1 school. After sharing his desire with his teacher, Ms. Wong, a colleague, and his mother, he launched a Go Fund Me Account and donated a considerable amount from his own birthday money to match the funds raised.

Zayan’s passion was quenchless and evolved to raise funds not only for my first graders, but for all Tk through second-grade classrooms at Marsh Elementary School in Antioch, California. With his mother’s guidance, Zayan purchased, organized, delivered, and personally handed out a diverse range of educational materials to assist our students with distance learning. His compassion and personal dedication are rare qualities in a person so young. I remember the day he and his mother arrived at Marsh to distribute materials to our students.

The grace he embodied, and the joy that danced across his face as he personally conversed with our students and their families. Zayan’s ability to instantly connect with strangers whose life experiences were so different from his own was truly inspiring to observe.

This passion continued to develop as he raised funds last year to provide laptops for Chromebooks for Refugees and exceeded his goal. Zayan has been actively involved and volunteering his skillset in the Dublin community through The Muslim Community Center East Bay. This organization provides clothing, food, education, spiritual, and job support. His experience and connection with the Muslim Community in Dublin and his family, guides his foundational belief that he has a responsibility to help others who are less fortunate. 1061
Zayan Kajani’s unwavering compassion, commitment to initiate, follow-through, and exceed his own personal goals as well as his history with the Dublin Community have shaped him to be an excellent candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I believe he will bring these qualities and leadership to the committee, and I highly recommend his candidacy.

Sincerely,
Mary McHugh
First-Grade Teacher
Marsh Elementary School
1062

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Shreeya
Last Name*
Kamboj
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5725 Date Submitted: 3/21/2023
1063
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Emerald High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th Grade (Freshman)

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee as I am interested in serving my community and making Dublin a better place. I enjoy taking leadership roles in my community and offering service. I would also feel a strong sense of relationship towards my place in Dublin. Additionally, the Youth Advisory Board would give a view on a variety of different characteristics such as leadership, cooperativeness, responsibility, respectfulness, and goals. I also feel like I would be able to make a contribution to multiple lives, as I am interested in making Dublin a better place to live. Likewise, I could help different age groups be aware of the issues that Dublin currently deals with by hosting events, spreading information (through newsletters, videos, or flyers), or giving informational presentations (through school systems). (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Skills I possess that would make me a strong candidate for the YAC are leadership, responsibility, respectfulness, attentiveness, an open mind, and hardworking. I exhibit these characteristics by being an active participant in my school and involve myself in collaboration. In my school I am the Senior Yearbook Layout Editor, participate in multiple sports (Track, Cross Country, Swimming, and Archery), am apart of the Speech and Debate Club, and involve myself in an organization called Girls4Sports that bring awareness to concerning events of modern society and how we can act as problem solvers. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Issues I believe teens in Dublin are currently dealing with include, the negative health effects of tobacco, peer pressure, changes in daily life, and expectations. YAC could address these issues by sending out resources (via email, school systems, articles), holding contests where teens can create visuals (ie. posters, flyers, etc...) to inform their peers, or to address these issues in Dublin Board meetings.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I have been playing the piano since I was 8 years old and I enjoy reading and writing in my spare time, and I will devote the same level of attention to YAC! I also joined a non-profit organization called Girls4Sports that brings awareness to important issues such as global health, and women's rights problems. I am also the Senior Yearbook Layout Editor for Cottonwood's Yearbook Team, Advanced Speech and Debate member, am apart of TUPE, which is a counselor program bringing awareness to the negative health effects of tobacco, and WEB which is a mentorship program to help 6th graders to transition to middle school. In 9th grade I am interested in pursuing many of these activities, and creating clubs and organizations in EHS, to further my passion to make a community impact. In my freshman year I am also passionate about joining electives such as Biomedical Pathways, Leadership, and Yearbook. I will devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities, as my main goal in life is to make a difference in the community, so YAC will always be my first priority. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved in the community by hosting events, contests, and activities. These activities could include fun runs, contests potentially with prizes, having teens publish articles or writings, and potentially create YAC clubs in middle/high schools who are not apart of YAC, so they can inform their schools about Dublin activities. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have attended Dublin School Board and City Council meetings. Topics I have been interested in include, limited resources for schools, information about Emerald High school, and news in Dublin (rewards that citizens have gained or dangerous events that have occurred).
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
HPSCAN_20230321042153349_2023-03-21.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Shreeya Kamboj Rec Letter.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1065
March 15th, 2023
Brandon Coffey
6-8 Math Teacher/ WEB Coordinator
Cottonwood Creek School
Dublin CA 94568
Hello,
My name is Brandon Coffey and I am a 6-8 Math teacher at Cottonwood Creek School. At the school, I am also the WEB Coordinator which is a program to help incoming 6th graders in their middle school experience. I have been in the education field for 5 years and have known Shreeya Kamboj for 4 of those years. I first taught Shreeya in 5th grade and am now working with her in our WEB program. I know that Shreeya would be an amazing asset to Dublin Youth Advisory Board and should be strongly considered when reading her application.

Within our WEB meetings, Shreeya shows strong signs of leadership. Our meetings are student driven with little to no influence from adults. Shreeya has come up with multiple acitivities to include in our events and has developed resources to help facilitate these events. From creating Google Form sign-ups, to discussing and debating what events would best suit our 6th graders, Shreeya has risen to the role of being a leader.

Shreeya is also very detail-oriented. In being detail-oriented, she makes sure to understand her 6th grade peers to better understand their needs. She meets with them on a regular basis and will ask them questions about their school year and what they need. In getting to know them better, she ultimately is better able to craft activities and events that will benefit our 6th grade class. Lastly, in these meetings, she is always punctual and on time. Her communication is strong and this contributes to her being such a strong voice for the 6th graders she's trying to help.

Leadership, communication, attention to detail, and being punctual are all attributes of anyone who is successful in a government position. The Dublin Youth Advisory Board would be very fortunate to have an applicant like Shreeya. She represents a part of the student population what would greatly benefit from having someone like her on the board; someone who works hard, has imense empathy for those around her, and does things with intent and purpose. Please reach out with and questions and consider Shreeya Kamboj for the position.

Best regards,
Brandon Coffey
6-8 Math Teacher/ WEB Coordinator
Brandon Coffey
Dublin, CA 94568
Letter of
Recommendation
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Riya
Last Name*
Kawatra
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5739 Date Submitted: 3/22/2023
1068
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the Dubin Youth Advisory Committee because I have lived in Dublin all of my life and as I am getting older, I would like to do my part in giving back to the city that has raised me. As a current highschool student, I see there are issues that need to be addressed and I want to do my part in helping my fellow peers and community overcome hardships. Iâ€™ve always looked up to the leaders of our city and I am excited to be posed with an opportunity to serve my community!
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have very strong leadership skills, as I have been involved in a leadership program since elementary school, and have carried this passion into high school. I am currently a part of Dublead, which is the leadership program for Dublin High School. I know what students want and enjoy, as we frequently put on events for the students at our school. I have also volunteered at the Dublin Library, so I am experienced with working with other people, both students and adults, in the city. I am also a team worker, this year I was Team Captain of Dublin Highâ€™s freshman girls basketball team. As team captain, I used communication skills, patience, and trust in order to lead my team into a successful season this year. Additionally, I am a committed person who always has to see things through. I am a straight A student and I am able to balance my school life with my extracurriculars by using time management skills.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
At school, I see many kids skip class to go vape in the bathrooms or do some other types of drugs. Not only have I been hearing and seeing things from Dublin High, I also heard that the middle schools have also been facing this issue. Though our schools present information on why drug use is bad for teenagers, I feel like as a city we can do more to prevent more teens from getting hooked on drugs from a very young age. Last year I made a podcast called Resistance Against Drugs, and put it on Spotify in order to get students at school listening to the effects of drug abuse in a way that is convenient and easy to access for them. I think that in order to see a decrease in teens using drugs, we have to make information more accessible, rather than just providing yearly slideshows that will not be looked upon again. I propose that we make a social platform on behalf of the cities or schools in order to keep sending out information in a way that would reach many students at a time. We can do this by using Instagram, Tiktok, or maybe even making a Spotify account where we post songs or podcasts with this information. I believe that this is a big issue that needs to be addressed because we canâ€™t risk any more teenagers throwing away their lives to drugs.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Next year I plan to be a part of the Dublin High Girls Basketball team, along with Dublin Highâ€™s CSF, and NHS. I also plan on starting a club about drug awareness, however, I will be able to devote time to projects and meetings for the YAC. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved by posting on social media like Instagram and Snapchat, and by spreading the word at school and to friends and family.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not recently attended a YAC or other meetings, but I look forward to attending them soon. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Riya Letter.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1070
1071

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Na Yeon
Last Name*
Kim
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5790 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1072
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 12 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to be a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory committee because I want to voice my opinion on different issues around activities in Dublin. Being a Dublin resident for eight years, I am familiar with the different activities and volunteer opportunities around the community. Some that I have participated in include volunteering at the Senior Center, attending the Shannon Park Sunrise Summer Camps, Splatter, and St. Patrickâ€™s Day Parade. I am an avid believer in having a student representative to voice these issues, as a student perspective is the most beneficial. I have experience in identifying community needs and taking action to make sure teensâ€™ opinions are heard. I have already impacted my community district-wide, and want to expand impact city-wide.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am a team player, a project leader and have innovative ideas. In Destination Imagination, an organization with a project-based format where students collaborate to solve one STEAM based challenge annually, I have worked with my team of five to organize presentations across nine elementary schools and 700+ students about fire safety. I communicated with the Alameda County CERT and HOA members to design flyers about emergency preparedness, which was sent to 350+ families in Dublin. I can effectively identify a community need, take initiative and correspond with community leaders, plan events, and effectively assess results to improve activities in the future.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
A prevalent issue teens in Dublin are currently dealing with is unsafe driving leading to car crashes. Many people in my school and in my friend groups have been a victim of these experiences, especially as students get their licenses at younger ages.

There have been many reports of car crashes and even deaths, making this a crucial issue. I think YAC could deal with this by hosting an event where students learn about safe driving techniques and get to try out some of the techniques they learned. I also know one of my friends had gotten into a car accident, and we could possibly have a guest speaker event where he can present his own experience to make it preventable for other students and urge them to not make the same mistakes. At the upcoming fairs, such as splatter, there could be a booth where we partner with one of the driving schools such as PassGuarantee and have volunteers demonstrate safe driving techniques. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I will be working a job, however I am able to attend all monthly meetings and would love to volunteer and help out at the various events hosted by the city.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* When talking to my friends, I will mention the different activities offered and go with them. I have a personal academic blog with over 3000 unique visitors from the Bay Area where I can post about the different events going on in the City to get students interested in different opportunities. I have held the officer position of Publicist at Dublin Interact for two years, and plan to run for a board position again next year. Interact presents various volunteer opportunities in the community to its members, so I can publicize various events held by the city to Dublin highschoolers. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* n/a
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Kim.docx
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1074
D
23 March 2023
Dear Dublin Youth Advisory,
It is my pleasure to recommend Na Yeon for the Youth Advisory Committee. I have known Na Yeon for this school year and really enjoy my time as her teacher at Dublin High School. Na Yeon is an excellent student who displays success in both her academic and personal life.

Every day Na Yeon comes to class with a smile on her face and a positive attitude. One thing that stands out about her in my class is that she is constantly offering to participate in discussions without being called upon. She also does a wonderful job in Socratic Seminars balancing her talking time with incorporating other students. You can tell that her peers respect her a great deal and that she gets along well with everyone. She also collaborates well during group projects and seems to be a natural leader.

Na Yeon is fully invested in her studies but I can tell that she also loves being involved in the larger community and extra curricular activities. I think that she would be an awesome member of the Youth Advisory Committee and would take her duties very seriously. I recommend her without hesitation. Please feel free to contact me with any questions.

Best regards,
Hannah Moreno
Hannah Moreno
English Teacher
Dublin High School
1075

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Nayan
Last Name*
Kolpuru
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5803 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1076
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* Sophmore

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* As a firm believer in student education and participation, I have created multiple projects in order to improve district relationships with students on multiple levels. In my 8th grade year, I made a project to create representation and brought it to my board of director representative, as well as taking multiple surveys in order to gauge representation on a middle school level.

The results were as follows: 66% of people would not speak up in front of the board or talk to them about problems and around 81% said they would love a representative. More than that, I want to help serve this community, and my brother, who is a second grader at John Green. Any way I can make my community better will help him in the future. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* As a student in the Dublin system for 9 years, I have an incredible understanding of our school system, as well as the contacts in most schools. Being in the curriculum council, working with our district, our teachers, our principals, and our staff to view incoming courses and new materials for all grades from a student's perspective allows me to try and make my district better.

The council helps give a deeper understanding of the district and how it works. Working on creating a better education is not the only way to support my brother, as our planet faces more and more global pollution, doing our part to help our schools turn green was a big idea for me. Working with a club that I helped create, we have been in touch with our local district in order to create a report on recyclables coming out of our district, thus better allowing our district to cope with the trash. Leadership in the club has also brought out my leadership and community volunteering aspects of me. While working for a better tomorrow, I do not neglect my health or well-being, as I swim with a varsity team in the Pleasanton Seahawks, a top 5 ranked national club. Swimming every day, makes me work on my time management and determination skills. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Two main issues I see kids experience on a daily basis is the technology and information given at schools around the district.

Throughout my middle school years, Fallon Middle School was always plagued with bad wifi and computers that barely looked like they could run. Tech issues were rampant and we would see the technology consultants almost every day in our classrooms. The YAC can fix this, by complaining about reports of the technology, researching ways to give our kids better access, and finally presenting our findings to the DUSD Board. Another thing that plagues our school is the lack of information given to our students. An example of this is during course selection for Dublin Highâ€™s freshman, multiple classes that were off limits and different than what was advertised were being placed on the course handbook. I myself only learned about these courses, after working on a project with Dublin High Schoolâ€™s math department on presentations for middle school students about math pathways. The YAc can monitor this, and make sure that students are receiving the information that they need. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* While working for a better tomorrow, I do not neglect my health or well-being, as I swim with a varsity team in the Pleasanton Seahawks, a top 5 ranked national club. Although I do swim daily, I will miss practice to attend meetings, and I always make sure to do so, with the example being the curriculum council meetings. I do not miss these types of meetings and I will not prepare to do so in the future.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* My accomplishments, while being the first student to work on the district curriculum council as an ambassador for the almost 22,000 students in my district, being a vice president in a student-driven club, to being a member of 5 other clubs allowed me to know many people. As a firm believer in student education and participation, I have created multiple projects in order to improve district relationships with students on multiple levels. In my 8th grade year, I made a project to create representation and brought it to my board of director representative, as well as taking multiple surveys in order to gauge representation on a middle school level. The results were as follows: 66% of people would not speak up in front of the board or talk to them about problems and around 81% said they would love a representative. Furthermore, as a student in the Dublin system for 9 years, I have an excellent understanding of our school system, as well as the contacts in most schools. Being in this district for 9 years has also led me to have many friends who I still talk to and who are interested in my ideas. As a part of the Fallon Competetive Speech and Debate team, I learned to persuade people, and I made met many people with interests in the community like mine.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* Unfortunately, I have not attended any YAC or City council meetings, however, I have attended multiple DUSD Curriculum Council meetings in which I am one of the student's two representatives in the district. I did raise the proposal of technology at the meetings when the new online curriculum was brought up, and the speaker addressed the motion by saying that it was an important factor and one that was good I brought up.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Nayan Kolpuru-2023.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
NK Letter of Rec.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1078
To whom it may concern,
Hello, my name is Brandon Youngsma, and I am a Freshman and Sophomore English teacher at Dublin High School. I am writing this letter to recommend Nayan Kolpuru for your program. I have been Nayan’s English teacher since August of 2022, and he has been a stellar student this entire school year.

Nayan is a tremendous student. He is studious, motivated, and eager to learn. He is consistently one of my top students, scoring well on all assignments and learning from each one to improve upon the next. Nayan goes above and beyond each assignment to improve himself and gain the best aptitude for any challenge. These are all traits that would make him valuable to any program he wants to be a part of.

As stated above, Nayan is incredibly accomplished and intelligent in the classroom. In group settings, he takes a leadership role and is capable of delegating tasks to increase efficiency and offer all his teammates a chance to participate and succeed. He participates in classroom discussions and also assists other struggling students when he is ahead during his work.

Recently in class, we had a seminar and again Nayan proved himself capable. He participated multiple times in the discussion and answered other students' questions, not just the one posed from me. Nayan has also taken to an essay contest recently that covers a wide variety of topics and seeks to improve every response he has written. Mr. Kalpuru is incredibly capable.

Whatever program that Nayan Kolpuru would like to pursue would greatly benefit with his addition. I give him my highest recommendation. If you have any further questions you may contact me at . Have a wonderful day.

With respect,
Brandon Youngsma
9th and 10th English Language Arts Teacher.
1079
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
March 23, 2023
Selection Committee
Youth Advisory Committee
Dear Selection Committee,
It is my pleasure and honor to recommend Nayan Kolpuru for placement on the Youth Advisory Committee in Dublin, CA. It has been a pleasure watching him grow in my Advanced Algebra 2 class this year and become a contributing member of my classroom. After reading more about this opportunity, I believe Nayan will be a great asset to the program.

The members of this committee are students who are concerned with youth issues in the community and are able to effectively communicate with others. Nayan was part of the prestigious debate team in middle school and is currently part of the Curriculum Committee for the Dublin Unified School District.

He is currently putting together a presentation for community members regarding the math pathways as a resource for families who are uncertain with the school system. He has done an excellent job clarifying misunderstandings surrounding math pathways and found effective ways to simplify what is otherwise a confusing topic.

Nayan has done all of the above voluntarily, with no hesitation. He takes initiative and plans ways to help our community become stronger and more informed. He does this all while still finding time to enjoy swimming.

I have no reservations recommending Nayan for this great program. I have no doubt he will represent the youth of the community extremely well. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding his character, past academic work, or any other qualifications related to the program.

Sincerely,
Jaime Roberts
Mathematics Teacher
Dublin High School

DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL
2017 GOLD RIBBON SCHOOL
8151 Village Parkway, Dublin, CA 94568 ● 925-833-3300 ● FAX 925-833-3322 1080

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Akshaya
Last Name*
Koneti
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5710 Date Submitted: 3/19/2023
1081
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee as I want to help make a positive impact in our community. Dublin has been my home for the past 12 years and I would love the opportunity to give back to this awesome community. I'm really interested in planning events and participating in community service and think I would be a great voice for pitching in views about the city from a high schooler's standpoint. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Some skills I have that would make me a strong candidate for the YAC are that I am passionate, organized, and collaborative. I strongly believe in giving my all in everything I do and staying sincere and persistent. I strive to work hard and make a positive impact but also stay true to myself and pursue what I am passionate about. Throughout my life, my three main interests were robotics, tennis, and art; each of which has had a great impact on who I am today. Being a part of several robotics teams I have learned how to be a team player, collaborate with others, and be responsible. I am always open to new ideas and am an active listener. Additionally, I've recognized the importance of self-discipline and critical thinking while being a part of my school's tennis team. Furthermore, art has given me a new perspective on things while developing essential skills including focus, creativity, patience, and perseverance. Apart from my interests, I also have experience. Last year in California Junior Scholarship Federation, I served as Treasurer where I gained knowledge about managing money. I was also able to help organize a food drive for the Alameda County Food Bank, coordinate a hand-warmers fundraiser for the East Bay SPCA, participate in an event for Kids Against Hunger, and mentor a 6th grader in math. I have also been part of the Gallant Gaveliers Gavel Club for 6 years which is a youth Toastmasters Club. This club was very fundamental for me as I acquired a lot of crucial skills such as public speaking, social skills, networking, giving and taking feedback, and optimism. I served as Treasurer, Secretary, and Vice President where I learned many communication and leadership skills, along with professionalism. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
The main issues I believe teens in Dublin are currently dealing with are mental health and social justice. Especially as high schoolers, teens have a lot of pressure and anxiety from their academic and social lives. Mental health is usually an overseen topic that many don't put much focus on, but in reality, it is something almost everyone has struggled with at some point in their life. YAC could address this issue by creating safe environments where teens feel safe to open up and talk about what they are going through. We can also promote and advertise healthy coping ways through workshops and other events that occur in the city. Additionally, another issue that teens may be dealing with is social justice. With Dublin being such a diverse community, there are sometimes instances where racism and homophobia come into play in negative ways. YAC can address this issue by holding events that promote inclusion and inform others about these topics. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Iâ€™ve always had a passion for robotics from a young age and have participated in many teams including a First Lego League team for 4 years and a VEX Robotics team for 3 years. I am currently part of a competitive team in Gael Force Robotics where we have made it to the state level. I am also a part of my school tennis team and have been playing tennis since I was 5 years old. It helped me recognize the importance of self-discipline, critical thinking, and coordination and served as a way to escape from all my worries. In my free time, I love to grab a brush and start painting. I have been a member of Sai Arts Studio for 8 years and have displayed art in support of Touch a Life Foundation, Sewa International, and Expressions of Hope. Additionally, I am an active member of multiple clubs at my school including Model United Nations, California Scholarship Federation, Indian Student Association, and Girls for Sports. Being a part of many different activities, an essential skill I've developed in time management. I've learned how to plan out my schedule to make sure I have enough time to do everything I put my mind to and will be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* There are many ways we can get other teens involved in community events. Many teens are really active on social media so we can advertise events on platforms such as Instagram and Tiktok. We can also have YAC members advertise events in schools and spread the news. Apart from getting the word out, another big factor is appealing to teens. By hosting events in fun and common hangout places like Emerald Glen or Fallon Gateway, teens are more likely to show up and participate. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* Unfortunately, I have not attended any recent meetings. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
LoR for Koneti Akshaya 2023 Dublin City Council
draft1.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1083
Dublin Unified School District
Dublin High School
Dublin, California, 94568
Principal AP AP AP AP AP
Maureen Byrne Kevin Cushing Lisa Diaconis Whitney Dwyer Diane Santamorena
Andrew
Waranoff
March 2023
To whom it may concern,
Please accept this letter of recommendation for Akshaya Koneti.

My name is Isaiah Mohr, I am Akshaya’s biology instructor at Dublin High School. As of writing this, I have had the joy of teaching biology to her for almost 8 months and leading her through Freshmen Seminar for almost 3. Akshaya would make a fine addition to the Youth Advisory Committee thanks to her incredible work ethic and easy-going demeanor.

At first glance, Akshaya ticks all the boxes of your admirable, quiet scholar unassumingly working through all that school can throw at her (and keeping up with it all, to boot). As you get to know her, Akshaya shows that not only is she an academic dynamo, but she’s also a supportive friend who fingers in every pie she can get her mitts on.

Akshaya’s grades speak for themselves, as does the long list of her extracurricular activities dating back years. But what might not be apparent is her incredible work ethic. No matter the type of work she has been assigned, she has been able to get it done thanks to how she spends her time wisely and efficiently in and out of class.

As a teacher, I much appreciate how well Akshaya does when presented with novel assignments. While she obviously excels in a structured environment with defined roles and tasks, in open-ended or intentionally vague assignments she is ready to flex the creative and social parts of her mind to solve problems and come to solutions her group members can agree on. Akshaya is a skilled diplomat who can handle egos with tact and without hard feelings. Such social skills and mental flexibility would be a valuable addition anywhere.

Cheers,
Isaiah Mohr
Biology Teacher
1084

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Olivia
Last Name*
Kong
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5847 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1085
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the Youth Advisory Committee because I see this as a great opportunity to share my ideas about how to make Dublin a better place for young people. Although Dublin does a great job cultivating a community for its citizens, there are many ways to improve that sort of community for teens especially. I have been living in Dublin all my life and I have a thorough understanding of what things teens here care about and what they want changed. I have a lot of experience in planning events at school and would love to share that with the city. I also am very interested in government and this is a great way for me to learn more about our local government and the procedures it follows. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* One of my strongest skills is being able to listen. No matter how much I enjoy talking, I always end up learning more from listening to others. I always try my best to incorporate ideas from everyone to make sure they feel heard and we create an event that is inclusive. My listening skills make me very easy to work with and have strong cooperation skills. I know how to resolve issues when they arise and communicate my ideas clearly. Another skill I possess is organization. I often keep track of the ideas during brainstorming and create a schedule or do-list. This helps keep everything done on time and when delegating tasks.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
An issue that teens are facing in Dublin is a lack of mental health discussion. I noticed that aside from the Youth Mental Health Forum, there really aren't that many city wide open discussions about teensâ€™ mental health. There are many resources available at schools but creating a culture that de-stigmatizes mental health allows teens to actually use them. Of course, this is no easy feat and would take a long time to truly overcome. However, a good starting point would be to implement city sponsored support groups for certain mental health challenges. The YAC could also implement a mental health newsletter that included interviews from teens that have overcome their mental health struggles. This way teens can feel more open to talk about their own mental health. Another issue that teens are dealing with in Dublin is a lack of community and sense of togetherness. We have a very competitive climate and it doesn't bring us together. The YAC can tackle this issue by creating teen oriented events based on topics that teens are passionate about. For example, many teens are at least aware of the negative effects humans have on the environment, so on Earth Day a city sponsored park clean-up could be held. It would be a great way for teens to work together and see that there are like-minded people who care about the same issues. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I will most likely be involved in Dublead and some clubs like CSF, Student Climate Corps and Model UN. I donâ€™t participate in any sports so allocating time for YAC will not be an issue. I am good at time management and often use my planner to help me get organized throughout the day.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To get more teens involved in the community, I would suggest creating events and activities centering around issues and topics that teens are aware and truly care about. Aside from the event I mentioned above, another one could be a city-sponsored reading program at the library. Focusing on current trends that can be applicable to events is a good way to gain participation.

In this example, social media, especially TikTok, has pushed reading to become more popular than ever. Many books are becoming very popular and highlighting them in a book club or event at the Dublin Library is a great way to get teens reading and involved. In fact, really using social media to market and advertise these events is key to increasing involvement. This is not just creating Canva posts, but making TiKTok videos and creative Instagram polls. Itâ€™s a direct way of knowing how Dublinâ €™s teen community feels about certain events and let them know what is happening. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have been unable to attend any of the meetings recently. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Olivia Letter.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1087
March 21, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

I have known Olivia Kong since the start of her 8
th grade year at Wells Middle School in
Dublin. I am her former English teacher. I believe Olivia would be an excellent candidate for your program. Olivia is a model student and exhibits the morals and creativity your program upholds.

Olivia is a bright and attentive young woman. In class and in her work, she demonstrates that she is an intelligent and capable student with great potential. She has always been among the top students in her class. I am confident that she will thrive further in her high school academics.

I am convinced that Olivia would make a more than valuable contribution to your program and has my highest recommendation. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Sara Quintero
8 th grade English & History
Wells Middle School
1088

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Vidip
Last Name*
Koppaka
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5747 Date Submitted: 3/22/2023
1089
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* â€œThe best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of othersâ€ - Mahatma Ghandi. My name is Vidip Koppaka and I want to be a member of Dublinâ€™s select committee. Dublin has provided so much for my family and I and I want to utilize this opportunity to give back to our community. I ought to be involved in activities occurring around Dublin and take part in resolving solutions for the youth and greater populations of Dublin. As a cosmopolitan who was born in a country, raised in another, and currently living in America, I believe I possess the qualities of a world citizen. I can bring my unique perspectives and experiences to the table, further demonstrating that Iâ€™m a suitable candidate. As a student at Dublin High School, it is obvious that I interact with teenagers of various demographics on a daily basis. However, what sets me apart from other students is that I was also new to this community two years ago and I can compare Dublin city to places I have lived before (like Fremont). With this, I can bring forth new ideas on what teenagers need and should be provided within Dublin. I want to be the voice of teenagers in Dublin and represent them to make Dublin a place where they feel at home. By joining the YAC, I can also meet other young people who are passionate about making a difference and working collaboratively to address issues that impact teenagers. Being a member of the YAC can provide me with a unique opportunity to make a difference to the community, meet new people, and gain valuable leadership skills. This would be a great opportunity for me to get some experience with teamwork and decision-making. I would love to hold this position as a student aspiring to contribute while learning on the way.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I believe that I possess all the necessary qualities to become a member of the Youth Advisory Committee. As a Boy Scout of America, I live by the Scout Law every day, which includes being trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. I also serve as a Patrol Leader in my troop, where I demonstrate my leadership skills by guiding 14 scouts in my patrol. It is my responsibility to help them progress through their scouting journey and reach higher ranks while learning essential skills to thrive in the real world. In addition to my scouting experience, I have played competitive soccer for four years, where I served as the captain of my team. During games, I must make critical decisions to ensure our success, requiring analytical thinking and knowledge of everyone's strengths and weaknesses. While living in Australia, I served on the Student Representative Council in my school, where I was elected to represent my class for two years. After each meeting, I would relay important information to my class, showcasing my communication skills and ability to understand my classmates' needs. I also have experience in public speaking, making me a confident presenter and engaging in debates. Furthermore, I possess excellent social skills, allowing me to make authentic relationships with people from all backgrounds. I enjoy working with others in a team to accomplish goals efficiently and obtain different perspectives and ideas.

Finally, I have great respect for everyone, regardless of their background, and I am always eager to learn about new cultures and their unique stories. I believe that my experiences and qualities make me a great fit for the Youth Advisory Committee, and I would be honored to contribute my skills to serve the community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
As a Dublin teenager, I have noticed some problems in our community that I believe should be brought up in the Youth Advisory Committee. Firstly, I would like to highlight that West Dublin lacks the modern facilities that East Dublin has, leaving West Dublin kids at a disadvantage. This discrepancy needs to be addressed by providing more resources and renovations to West Dublin so that these kids can excel. Another issue is that students from low-income families do not have access to free tutoring from the ARC at Dublin high school due to transportation issues. This leaves these students without the extra help they need to succeed academically. The academic pressure in Dublin is high and many teenagers feel overwhelmed by the expectations placed on them. This pressure can lead to stress and anxiety and it is important to address the root causes of this pressure. This pressure may also contribute to the increase in fights in Dublin schools. To address this issue, we need to identify why teenagers feel the need to fight and prevent these conflicts from happening in the first place. Mental health is another major issue that affects teenagers in Dublin. Many teenagers feel the pressure to fit in and meet the expectations of their peers and parents, which can lead to feelings of isolation and depression. We need to provide more support and resources for these teenagers to help them cope with these feelings and seek help when needed. Additionally, there is a lack of recreational facilities in Dublin for teenagers. This makes it difficult for them to socialize and engage in physical activities. By providing more recreational activities, such as summer camps, we can bring the Dublin teenage community together and provide a much-needed break from the busy world. These activities could also help teenagers relieve stress and bond with others in the community. In conclusion, these are some of the problems that I have noticed in our community that need to be addressed. I believe that by bringing these issues to the attention of the Youth Advisory Committee, we can work towards making Dublin a better place for teenagers to live and thrive. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* If appointed as a member of the Youth Advisory Committee of Dublin, I would be dedicated to making a positive impact in my community. I am a leader in my Boy Scout Troop in San Ramon and have troop meetings every Tuesday from 7 - 8:30pm. This is the only major commitment I have and it doesnâ€™t require additional time. I am committed to attending all YAC meetings and events and using my skills to contribute to the committee's goals. I have no other commitments that would conflict with my YAC duties, and I am willing to devote all my free time to this position. Being a part of the YAC would be a dream come true for me, and I am excited about the opportunity to work with such a dedicated and amazing group of people. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Social media platforms, such as Instagram, are extremely popular among teenagers. As a member of the Youth Advisory Committee, I would leverage these platforms to promote events and activities, share photos and videos of past events, and engage with other teens. Additionally, I would collaborate with other schools, such as Wells Middle School or Fallon Middle School, to ensure that these events reach more teenagers and gain wider exposure. I would also work closely with the Dublin Unified School District to promote events and activities through the weekly newspaper they send out. To ensure that as many teenagers as possible are aware of upcoming events, I would use a variety of methods to spread the word. This could include telling my friends and classmates about upcoming activities and encouraging them to attend, as well as working with teachers and counselors to promote city events in classes. Finally, to attract teenagers to events, I would focus on making them fun and engaging. This could include incorporating food trucks, music, a mini arcade, and possibly a few rides, to create an atmosphere that is both enjoyable and memorable. By using a variety of promotional techniques and creating engaging events, we can help bring the Dublin teenage community together and create a more cohesive and united community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place. 1091
Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Letter of Rec(scouts).pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Vidip Koppaka LH.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1092

I am writing to recommend Vidip Koppaka in high regard. He has excelled as a student in my Freshman Seminar class this semester.

The first thing that I noticed about Vidip was his focus. He is particularly self-motivated to apply himself to the tasks at hand. Vidip is someone that I can count on to achieve at a high level, at the best of his ability, with the willingness to help his classmates that need assistance with concepts while working in small groups. He also effectively shares his thoughts in full-class activities. This sharing of insights has been integral to his success and that of his classmates. I value accurate, authentic contributions like Vidip’s while trying to relate a particular lesson’s objectives to my students. He always does so while remaining serious and respectful. He also has authentic friendships with his peers.

Besides his tangible achievements, Vidip brings responsibility, positivity, respect, and friendliness with him wherever he goes. I am confident that the organizations he finds himself in will be excited to have him. Please give him serious consideration for selection.

Sincerely,
Chris MacDougall
8151 Village Parkway
Dublin, California 94568-1699
(925) 833-3300
Main FAX (925) 833-3322
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
1093
1094

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Krish
Last Name*
Kowli
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5735 Date Submitted: 3/22/2023
1095
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11th grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* As a prospective member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC), my motivation stems from a desire to foster a deeper connection with my community and gain a more comprehensive understanding of its needs. Presently, I feel that my engagement with the youth demographic in Dublin is limited. Despite my involvement in extracurricular activities beyond the academic sphere, I recognize the value of expanding my social network and cultivating new friendships with individuals from diverse backgrounds in this culturally rich city.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* My robust leadership capabilities and exceptional knowledge on current world issues render me a highly competitive contender for the YAC. As the captain of the JV soccer team at Dublin High School this academic year, I have demonstrated a remarkable capacity for effective guidance and team management. Moreover, in my role as captain of the '07 Premier team in my soccer club, I have garnered two years of consecutive experience in leading a team towards achieving their goals. Additionally, my ability to swiftly comprehend and assimilate information equips me with a valuable asset in approaching complex issues from diverse perspectives. My wide-ranging knowledge of global issues and my open mindedness further enhances my capacity to think critically and consider multiple viewpoints when working with various team members. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
In the present milieu of Dublin, an issue that affects several adolescents, myself included, is the challenge of time management and procrastination. This problem can largely be attributed to the rampant addiction to social media and the consequent squandering of time on cellphones. I aim to tackle this issue by collaborating with my school counselors and devising strategies to inculcate healthier study habits and fostering an environment of focused attention towards academic pursuits.

Furthermore, the dearth of suitable volunteering opportunities is a pertinent issue that many teens struggle with. To alleviate this problem, I propose creating accessible channels, such as a dedicated discord server or an Instagram account, to facilitate the discovery of relevant volunteer opportunities and increase participation amongst teenagers. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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Furthermore, during the period spanning November to February in the academic year 2023-2024, I am slated to play soccer for Dublin High School. Despite these commitments, I am dedicated to allocating a substantial amount of time each month towards YAC meetings and activities. My schedule permits me to attend these sessions in the evenings on weekends, as well as after school on Thursdays and Fridays.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* My vision for promoting community engagement among teenagers involves two key strategies: incentivizing volunteerism and fostering unique experiences. To incentivize involvement, I propose creating opportunities for teenagers to earn volunteer hours through their participation in community events, teen-oriented activities, and City-sponsored initiatives. This approach not only incentivizes engagement, but also instills a sense of responsibility and ownership towards community involvement.

Furthermore, to augment the appeal of such opportunities, I suggest offering unique experiences to participants. For instance, teenagers could have the opportunity to meet with prominent figures from renowned companies in the Bay Area or interact with esteemed members of our community such as the mayor or other city leaders. By providing access to these unique experiences, we can inspire and empower teenagers to become active and engaged members of our community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission/City Council meeting recently. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Dr.Ventura Reccommendation for Krish Kowli.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1097

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
March 20, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

I am pleased to write this letter as a recommendation for Mr. Krish Kowli for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have known Krish for five years, three of which I was his principal at Cottonwood Creek School.

Krish demonstrates leadership qualities and a perspective that make him an ideal candidate for this position. He came to Cottonwood Creek School as a sixth grader when the school opened. Krish’s dedication, hard work and passion to make a difference at Cottonwood Creek shined. Being at a small school, there was a need to ensure student voices were heard and he did a great job advocating for himself and others. He participated in various leadership roles around campus including being a member and section lead in our Symphonic Band and participation in world language (Spanish) program. He is honest, acts with integrity and is a great role model for younger students. Krish gives back to our community by volunteering in various projects like the Teen Advisory Group and the COSMO coding class.

Krish was admired by his teachers and staff here as it showed through his nomination for his recognition of “Best Outgoing Student.” I recommend Mr. Krish Kowli for your committee. He will make a great member of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Sincerely,
Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1098

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Madelyn
Last Name*
Kris
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5832 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1099
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I would love to support my city by becoming a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have always been interested in understanding how such significant Dublin city events were planned and organized. I have been to quite a few of these this year including Splatter and the recent Saint Patricks Day Fair, and at all these activities, I was curious to learn who planned these events down to the smallest detail and ensured such a wonderful final product. Upon learning that joining the YAC would allow me to play a part in helping coordinate these events, I felt passionately that I want to help out and contribute to the welfare of Dublin this way. Additionally, when I have seen students involved in volunteering at YAC events, I was inspired by their commitment and I wanted to volunteer routinely like them as well. Finally, I want to learn more about the city that I have come to love after living here for a decade. I want to give back to the city that has kept me safe by becoming an active member of the community in the best way I can; by joining the Youth Advisory Council where I could be a part of bigger things happening in the Dublin community.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* In my choir class, I have learned to work productively in small groups of students and to resolve conflicts between my peers while considering everyoneâ€™s opinions and maintaining mutual respect. I've come to feel very comfortable collaborating with others in groups as a result of this, and I possess the facilitative skills to move the group forward while ensuring everyone feels that they are heard. I truly look forward to working with new students with different ideas and perspectives on the committee so we can all collaborate to help the city in productive ways and give back to our community. Additionally, I believe one skill I possess that would make me a strong candidate for the YAC is my interest and skill in research. I find specific research very interesting when it comes to researching a specific person, business, or topic. So, I believe this will be a valuable skill that will help me to find people and businesses to reach out to for events planned by the YAC committee if the opportunity arises. In terms of reaching out to businesses, I own a small jewelry business and I have learned from and worked closely with my jewelry teacher for five years, allowing me to understand how to communicate with business owners in an efficient yet considerate manner to recruit them for YAC events. Additionally, I have marketed my jewelry for my small business for five years now, and through this, I have learned how to judge my audience and learn how to accurately cater to their needs. This skill will be applicable when I promote teen activities done by YAC, as I will be able to market activities in a way that grabs Dublin teensâ€™ attention. Finally, I believe that my adaptability and quick learning will be useful for the YAC because I will be able to quickly adapt to any project or assignment I am given, and I will make sure I put my full effort into completing it perfectly.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
One prominent issue in the Dublin teen community is unhealthy competitiveness and work culture regarding school work. One way the YAC could help students affected by this is to host more fun student-run events that students who are not in the YAC can volunteer to plan and run. Essentially, opportunities for regular students to sign up to run an already-established YAC event.

YAC members would oversee the students that are planning/running the event and those students could learn important skills from the YAC members helping them with volunteering procedures and planning skills. More opportunities for students who are constantly stressed out to spend their time in a fun and productive way by volunteering to help their community will allow them a relaxing break from the stressful environment they are always in, and will allow them to build new relationships with other students, and integrate themselves in the Dublin community. Another problem Dublin teens face is that teens without social media are significantly under-informed about Dublin events that their peers with social media are aware of because those events were only promoted on social media platforms. These students are significantly under-informed about Dublin events than their peers with social media. To resolve this issue, YAC students could be in charge of a weekly email that these students could subscribe to and receive emails at the beginning of the week stating the upcoming events and opportunities in Dublin. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am currently involved in my school choir which has after school performances often, and I manage my small business in my free time as well. In the upcoming school year, I will be a part of Dublin Highâ€™s DECA chapter which is a large business club with chapters across the country. I will be able to manage my time wisely through this and next school year so that I can devote the proper amount of time to YAC meetings and activities along with my regular activities. I will be able to stay true to my commitment and prioritize YAC as an important part of my schedule. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities by marketing these events digitally through Instagram (posting an Instagram story sharing information about the event and asking others to repost or making an infographic post with the information and sharing that). I would also be more than willing to make posters or flyers for the event using my skills in graphic design and post that flier on Instagram or physically put it up around the Dublin High campus with permission so that students without social media would be aware of the event. I would also see if I could ask for the event to be featured in the weekly announcements for Dublin High and the weekly video bulletin so students are aware of Dublin events. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not yet attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting but would love to watch out for one and attend to learn more.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Madelyn Kris Letter of Recommendation from Ruby Wang
.jpg
1101
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1102
1103

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Advaith Krishna
Last Name*
Anoop Krishna
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5800 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1104
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* As a voting member of the YAC for the 2021-2022 term, as well as the PCS Rep for the 2022-2023 term, Iâ€™ve had a very enjoyable time working with fellow Dublin youth, and it has been a great learning experience for me as well. Iâ€™ve always believed that the current youth will be the future of our city, and I would love to help contribute to more YAC events in order to further this notion and keep giving back to the community that I owe a lot of my athletic and academic success to. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I believe my public speaking, commitment, and leadership skills make me a good candidate for another term on the YAC.

Another strong quality which I feel I've developed since my childhood is good listening skills, which helps me become socially responsible and observe the finer details. My first Public Speaking event was in 5th grade, when I gave a speech for the 5th grade graduation, and since then Iâ€™ve spoken in other events multiple times since then. As for my leadership skills, I believe I've exhibited them in various scenarios, whether it's my Martial Arts class, where I'm an assistant instructor working with small kids from 4-9 years of age. Iâ€™ve also had a lot of Cricket training camps and tournaments where I got the opportunity to represent my club at State level and lead the team as a Captain, and Iâ€™ve recently represented the West Coast at USA Cricket U15 Nationals. Cricket has taught me countless valuable life lessons, including patience and grit, as it is a sport that can motivate you as quickly as it can knock you into the ground. I believe these experiences, and the lessons which I've learned from them, will help me become a strong candidate for YAC. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I believe that one of the major issues faced by teens in Dublin and other areas of California is stress and anxiety, as well as peer pressure, usually revolving around academics. Many students sacrifice their sleep and wellbeing for validation in the form of excellent grades, although some can spiral to depression with the pressure being put on them. Many others, on the other hand, are spending too much time on a wide plethora of electronic devices, which can hamper them from being socially and physically active. As part of the YAC, we can host specialized events for teens, such as bringing back the successful Youth Mental Health Forum which the Youth Advisory Committee helped organize for the last 2 years, as well as the Youth Benefit Concert, which can help Dublin Youth showcase their musical passions. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Next year, Iâ€™ll be taking 3 Honors/AP Classes at school, although I will finish most if not all of my schoolwork during my free period. Outside of school, my only other activity is cricket: I have practices on Tuesdays and Thursdays and 7 hour games on both Saturday and Sunday. However, I have pristine attendance when it comes to PCS meetings this term, and I am sure I will be attending all the monthly meetings if I get re-elected. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I think the best way to get the teens involved in these activities is by providing awareness of various issues and the necessity of addressing these problems. We should develop passion in the community at an early age, which can motivate them to greater heights. The youth of Dublin should also feel involved through various events and activities that will help them develop new skills and help more in socializing with their peers. One thing I've noticed is that many teens, especially high school students, love helping out in different volunteer drives and other activities, but donâ€™t feel like theyâ€™re given enough opportunities to do so. We should articulate and advertise through social media and digital fliers about these events more, and inform these students about the benefits of these events. If possible, we should try incorporating from past editions of various events to further interest youth who would previously ignore involvement opportunities. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* YAC (2/22): At the recent YAC meeting I attended, the different planning ad-hoc committees checked in with the rest of the committee, including the ad hoc committees for the Dublin Youth Benefit Concert and the Youth Hack-a-Thon PCS (3/20): At the recent PCS meeting, we received a report from Anthony Calvo about changes to reservation policies for city fields, and we also discussed the successes of the St. Patrick's Day Festival, as well as possible improvements for next year. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Copy of AdvaithLetterofRec (1).pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1106
D
23 March 2023
Dear Youth Advisory Committee,
It is my pleasure to recommend Advaith as a student representative. I have known Advaith for this school year and really enjoy my time as his teacher in my English 3 Honors course. Advaith is an excellent student who displays success in both his academic and personal life.

One thing that stands out about Advaith in my class is his willingness to participate without being called on. He always raises his hand and has insightful things to say about whatever text we are discussing. I can also tell that his peers respect him a great deal and he gets along well with a variety of students. Advaith puts his full effort into everything we do in my class and I can always count on him to be respectful, motivated, mature, and kind.

Advaith is clearly invested in his studies but something that makes him unique is his involvement in extracurricular activities and dedication to being a student athlete. He is heavily involved in cricket outside of school and has been incredibly successful at it. As part of national tournaments he has had to balance traveling with his school work and does so with ease. He is proactive about staying on top of his studies while also being fully dedicated to his sport. Not only does Advaith participate in the sport, but he also volunteers as a coach for younger athletes.

It’s very difficult to be a student-athlete, especially while maintaining high grades with his challenging course load.

Advaith is fully invested in his studies but I can tell that he also loves being involved in the larger community and extra curricular activities. I think that he would be an awesome student representative and would take his duties very seriously. I recommend him without hesitation.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions.

Best regards,
Hannah Moreno
Hannah Moreno
English Teacher
1107

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Tvisha
Last Name*
Kumar
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5771 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1108
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I would like to become a member of the Dublin YAC because I have a desire to create a more united youth community in Dublin and a positive, strong environment for teens in our city. I've admired the Youth Advisory Committee's student-lead initiatives, such as the Youth Mental Health Forum and the difference that students that are the same age as me can make inspires me. I am someone who has a lot of enthusiasm to learn and improve my skills and I feel that being apart of the Youth Advisory Committee would allow me to broaden my horizons while communicating what I feel could contribute to Dublin's youth. Working in a group setting and making decisions to create a worthwhile impact while learning from other people my age excites me. I see this as a great opportunity to exercise my confidence and leadership skills while learning to listen, communicate, and gain more insight of the feelings of other teens in Dublin. It is incredible to me that a person of my age is able to have an influence on the thousands in our city and be a part of something like the Youth Advisory Committee. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have a strong drive and level of dedication. A skill I have that I'm proud of is once I set a goal for something, I'll continue and complete what I've set out to do. I believe in completing everything I do with diligence, and apply it to school, music, and everyday life. I work on developing my skills in music consistently and with persistence, and with dedication I'm able to improve and continue working despite failure. The same perseverance and effort it takes to improve my skills in playing my instrument at a high level and developing as a musician is applicable to many situations, and I believe that in the YAC that sincerity and resolve would be beneficial in making genuine progress and to bring a voice for the youth of Dublin. The stress and pressure challenges I face are improbable to reduce my enthusiasm and strength. Thriving off of competition and challenging situations is what drives me forward and look for opportunities to make a positive influence on people and feel the excitement of being a part of something.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
With Dublin's growing population, more schools being built as the years go on, and over 3000 students at Dublin High School, many can begin to feel like they are "just another kid" in the growing student population. It is easy to feel that your voice is lost among the others when they are so many other people in your school, so the Youth Advisory Committee could create a way Dublin students can voice concerns and suggestions they have to others Dublin students themselves. I also feel a lack of connectivity between the upper schools in Dublin. There are events and programs to transition middle schoolers into high school, but the middle schools are very separated from each other, and from Dublin High. With the construction of Emerald High, and west and east schools feeding into different high schools, a divide between schools ill be furthered, To feel like "One Dublin", the YAC could create an event or activities for teens from across Dublin to interact and form a connection with each other.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.) 1109

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I am a dedicated member of the Dublin High School Irish Guard Marching Band and Color Guard; the fall season occurring from July-November. I am currently auditioning to be a Drum Major, a significant leadership role that involves leading and conducting the band. I will also be in Track and Field in the spring of 2024 and am planning to be a member of Dublin Afsana, a Bollywood dance team at DHS. I will be able to devote time for YAC meetings and activities and set aside time to commit. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would focus on reaching out to other leadership groups in Dublin schools to get teens involved and give volunteer opportunities as well. To make Dublin teens excited to participate in community events is something that is crucial; I would advertise across Dublin schools and work on recognizing what most Dublin teens value and need and focus on those to get people involved. A part of giving opportunities for everyone to volunteer and be active in the community is creating a welcoming, kind space, and being encouraging that all people are valued and welcome to join. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not attended a YAC, Dublin Commission, or City council meeting. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
2023 Tvisha - Letter of Recommendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Tvisha Kumar LOR.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1110
March 21st, 2023
Dear Youth Advisory Committee Members,
I am writing this letter of recommendation in support of Tvisha Kumar’s application to join your committee. I have been Tvisha’s private clarinet teacher since January of 2021. Over the past two years she has consistently attended lessons well prepared and set ambitious objectives for what she wanted to achieve on her instrument.

As a result of her diligent study and tenacity, she was accepted to the CBDA All State Junior High Honor Bands in 2022, and was accepted to Dublin High’s Wind Ensemble as an incoming freshman in the ’22/23 school year. She has also volunteered to perform at several solo recitals when given the chance.

She has also exhibited resiliency in the face of coming up short. She again auditioned for the All State Bands as a freshman, taking on a much harder set of music and steadily improving her playing through the process. When the results were not what she wanted, she was unfazed and has continued at pace in her studies.

Tvisha has a bright personality and an eagerness to excel; I have no doubt she will be an positive addition to your committee. If you have any questions regarding my recommendation of Tvisha for your organization, you can reach me at the number and email listed below.

Sincerely,
Philip Halseth
1111

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
March 20th, 2023
To the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee Selection Team:

My name is Jasper Tran and I am the Music Director at Cottonwood Creek School (CCS) in Dublin, CA.

I am also the new Music Director for Emerald High School which is the Dublin Unified School District's second comprehensive high school. I am writing to recommend Tvisha Kumar for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Tvisha is a member of the Dublin High Irish Guard which performs throughout the Bay Area at local competitions and parades. She is a former CCS student and took on leadership roles to support our school and our students. She took on the role of Drum Major which is the person in charge of the band.

She not only taught her peers in class, she worked with the younger students of our school to build skills in their instrument.

She was also part of the Music Association which is our student run music club. She assisted with the development of social events to bring students together which was very important as this was when we transitioned out of distance learning. Many students were distant from each other but through these events, our music department was more cohesive and stronger.

It is my pleasure to recommend her for the Youth Advisory Council.

Sincerely,
Jasper Tran
Music Director, Cottonwood Creek School
Music Director, Emerald High School
2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1112

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Sarayu
Last Name*
Kunnaruvath
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5823 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1113
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Emerald High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* A position as a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee would be exceptionally effective, because I find it extremely necessary that the youth should have their voices heard when it comes to the matter of making decisions that impact the schools they study in. As an emerging high schooler, the drastic change from a K-8/middle school to a high school can be very impactful, but our council doesnâ€™t seem to draw attention towards the matter. Not only that, but it is also very obligatory to consider all perspectives when preparing to make a particularly impactful decision. Furthermore, the students in our schools arenâ€™t very connected or accepting of friends with different cultures. It is very important to address this matter, and as someone who had trouble fitting in whenever she moved to a new school, I experienced this miscommunication and lack of connectivity firsthand. If we want to improve our community, it would begin by improving our studentâ€™s lives, as it is the youth that later grows up to shape our civilization. Hence, I want to become a YAC council member to help our educational community become the best it can be.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Skills that I possess that would make me a strong candidate include loyalty, dependability, determination, being empathetic, and having out-of-the-box thinking. Not only that, but Iâ€™ve also had experience in the field of representing my school. At my old elementary school, Ellis Elementary in Sunnyvale, CA, I was part of their YAC, and even got to represent my school (along with another fifth grader) twice. My experience in this field also proves that I have experience in committees such as the YAC.

Also, my experience from participating in leadership roles as a Yearbook chief editor, an Advanced Drama student, a Girls4Sports YAB (Youth Advisory Board) member (a club that supports the empowerment of female athletes and awareness of needs that our community could benefit from if provided), a WEB (empowering our schoolâ€™s younger generations to be more successful) Leader and TUPE (Tobacco Use Prevention Education) advocate at my school. Participation in these electives and clubs really provoked my interest in helping my community grow and flourish. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
There are a couple unaddressed issues teens are currently dealing with in Dublin which can end up with horrible consequences. For instance, there has been a noticeable incline in students that purposefully say rude words to their peers without considering the other personâ€™s feelings. Other students physically harm their peers and think it's all a joke.

Students these days are growing apart, and itâ€™s heartbreaking to realize that our schools arenâ€™t as connected or friendly as they could be. Actions like these damage our connectivity as a supportive educational community. YAC could address these issues by encouraging students to actively show kindness and respect towards peers by giving presentations to the schools in Dublin. YAC can also offer events that nominate and award students for being recognized by their peers by being kind/respectful. Friendly competitions and presentations could really inform teens about the importance and the emotional appeal of being kind.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Currently, Iâ€™m involved in two arts electives and three clubs, garnering the experience necessary to further pursue leadership positions in high school. As for the arts electives, Iâ€™m one of the chief editors of the Yearbook team, and one of the Advanced Drama students for the Drama class. Both of these positions have taught me many valuable lessons about having a leadership position. Despite this, I will probably be involved in a few classes with intense homework from most high school courses, but I donâ€™t plan to join a lot of clubs, so I would have time to join the YAC and commit to the committeeâ€™s meetings and activities. Furthermore, joining all of these clubs and intense electives in middle school would help me be prepared for balancing out a peaceful freshman year in high school, helping me adhere to both my school life and personal life. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities, we could present a community building activity (as I mentioned earlier) such as nominating and awarding students for being recognized by their peers by being kind/respectful, giving presentations to the schools in Dublin to inform them of the value of kindness/respect. However, to get more teens to know about the event, we could inform them via social media or we could send out flyers to their schools.

Involving activities and/or fun and interesting games also tends to persuade more teens to join events. Not only that, but also offering the chance to learn something new is particularly convincing. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not; this is the first time Iâ€™m hearing of the YAC, and Iâ€™ve also never been to a Dublin Commission or City Council meeting. However, if given the opportunity, I would definitely attend one to learn more about how teens could impact our city and help it grow.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Sarayu_CCS_Recommendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Sarayu_CCS.pdf
1115
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1116

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL
DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
March 23, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

I am thrilled to write this letter on behalf of Miss Sarayu Kunnaruvath for your consideration of her acceptance into the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have been her principal for the last three years since she arrived as a sixth grade student.

Miss Kunnaruvath moved to Cottonwood Creek from Sunnyvale. As a person who moved to Dublin from Sunnyvale too, the transition to a different city, especially a small one like Dublin can be difficult. Miss Kunnaruvath transitioned here remarkably as began making connections, participating in various activities around campus and quickly becoming a leader on campus. Over the last few years, she has worked diligently in creating her own identity with a high amount of integrity. This is seen in her participation in various leadership roles around campus, including WEB and TUPE. Two teams that support a positive school culture, connecting students and helping students make good choices.

Characteristics Miss Kunnaruvath demonstrates include dedication, collaboration, responsibility, hard work and creativity. She has good ideas and knows how to implement these to make a difference around school. She has proven to be a wonderful role model for her peers and younger students.

Miss Kunnaruvath is respected by her teachers and staff at Cottonwood Creek School. She will be an asset to the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I highly recommend Miss Sarayu Kunnaruvath for your committee.

Sincerely,
Lorianne R. Ventura, Ed.D.

Principal
2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1117 1118

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Sathvik
Last Name*
Lakamsani
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5727 Date Submitted: 3/21/2023
1119
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin high School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 12 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I am extremely passionate about community service and making a difference in the lives of those around me. I firmly believe that being a part of the Youth Advisory Committee is a great way to channel my passion and skills toward creating positive changes in our city. As a member of the committee, I would be able to contribute my time, expertise, and ideas to help improve the quality of life for students, address pressing issues, and promote growth throughout the community. I believe that by working collaboratively with other committee members and community stakeholders, we can identify and address critical challenges facing our youth and find innovative solutions to promote positive change. I am committed to using my voice and influence to make a meaningful difference in our younger generations and believe that serving on the Youth Advisory Committee would provide me with a valuable opportunity to do so.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I strongly believe that my leadership capabilities and experience make me a great candidate for the Youth Advisory Committee.

Throughout my academic and professional career, I have consistently demonstrated my ability to lead and manage teams toward achieving common goals. I have excellent communication and organizational skills, which enable me to work effectively with diverse groups of people and build consensus around complex issues. Additionally, I have a strong track record of community service and have been actively involved in various local initiatives aimed at improving the lives of residents. I am currently a senior web developer for a website to help students talk about their problems with alcohol abuse which I talk about more in question 4. I am also Vice president of a club at my high school called Save The Bay along with some other leadership positions in school clubs. I am committed to using my skills, experience, and passion for community service to make a positive impact on our city. Overall, I believe that my leadership abilities, coupled with my dedication to serving the community, make me an excellent candidate for the Youth Advisory Committee. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Teenagers face a range of challenges including issues related to drugs, alcohol, vaping, and a lack of safe spaces to express their emotions. Substance abuse among teens is a significant concern, with many adolescents turning to drugs and alcohol as a means of coping with stress or fitting in with their peers. Vaping, in particular, has become increasingly popular among teenagers in recent years, with potentially harmful effects on their health. Additionally, many teens struggle to find safe and supportive environments where they can openly express their emotions and seek guidance when facing personal issues. These problems can have lasting impacts on their mental and physical health, as well as their relationships and academic performance. I think one main problem with how we approach this problem currently is that overall, with the problem of alcohol and substance abuse, solutions are too confrontational and this has been proven to not be the most efficient way to help this individual. It would be much better to establish a way to help the teenagers understand that they are not alone with a safe place to talk about their emotions and why they resort to this substance. This was where we got the idea for the website I coded and I believe that similar principles could be key to solving this problem. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* In the 2023-24 year, I will be participating in my school's VEX Robotics team. I am also Vice President of a club in my school called Save the Bay which is an environmental club where we host beach cleanups, battery recycling events, and more. This club was also a key part of my expanding leadership but we only have meetings 2 times a month and events once a month. I also started a website with my friend called my alcohol story which aims to help younger people talk about their experiences with alcohol and give them a safe place to talk with others about their emotions. We have finished the coding of the website and it has already been released so we are just doing some interviews and marketing it a little bit right now. Overall, I don't have many other serious time commitments and should be able to dedicate a lot of time to Youth Advisory Committees meetings and activities.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved in community events by spreading the word at school about upcoming events and also utilizing social media. I believe that social media is an incredibly powerful tool and posting on social media accounts while also being active frequently with new updates about upcoming events will really garner interest in these events. Along with this, I would spread the word at school with administrators, emails, and general word of mouth. With this, students could also repost community events they will be attending on their own social media accounts only creating more interest. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I saw the meeting on March 11th, 2023 and I was mainly trying to see what they discussed about High Schools or teenagers but didn't really find much. I also saw that a lot of the problems that most citizens were worried about were infrastructure or homelessness.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Sathvik Lakamsani LH.pdf
1121
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1122

I am writing to recommend Sathvik Lakamsani in high regard. He excelled as a student in my Honors English class his junior year.

The first thing that I noticed about Sathvik in English class was his focus. He was always extremely intent on whatever he was working on. Sathvik was also someone that I could count on to achieve at a high level, at the best of his ability, with the willingness to help his classmates that needed assistance with concepts while working in small groups. He also often and effectively shared his opinions in full-class discussions. This sharing of insights was integral to his success and that of his classmates. I value accurate, authentic contributions like Sathvik’s while trying to relate a particular lesson’s objectives to my students. He always does so while listening intently to the perspectives of his peers as well. I am sure that the dedication he has shown in my class will carry over into success in the future.

Besides his tangible achievements, Sathvik brings responsibility, respect, and friendliness with him wherever he goes. I am confident that any organization that selects him will be excited to have him.

Please give him serious consideration.

Sincerely,
Chris MacDougall
Dublin, California 94568-1699
Main FAX
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
1123

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Shreeya Rao
Last Name*
Lalam
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5791 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1124
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 9th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* 1125
I'm passionate about becoming a member because this opportunity will enable me to acquire experience in working in a government position and making a change in the community. It connects me with like-minded people who also want to learn more about participating in local government and representing the youth of Dublin, and allows us to build up on our personal views of how Dublin operates while also allowing us to see the process of democracy. Iâ€™ve always been interested in how the government works and how decisions in Dublin are made, and having the opportunity to take part in that process and gain knowledge from it is something that attracts me to this position. Also, being someone who is in 8th grade currently, having the opportunity to represent the younger side of this council and share the views of my age group and what we would like to see in Dublin is very exciting to me because usually, itâ€™s the older age group that is represented as they are more mature and closer to being adults. However itâ€™s important to get the opinions of those who are younger as well because as a city, the community is not only made up of those who are older, but it also has the future generation, the children, who will someday be the leaders of tomorrowâ€™s world. Having a fresh perspective from younger people can enable more variety in the discussions that YAC will have, and so I want to be the one who offers that perspective and representation and makes a change in how the youth are represented. In addition, being a teen, I'm aware of numerous issues that we struggle with, like academic pressure, social media and technology, relationship issues with parents or friends, outside influences, and having habits that will make an individual crumble in the future, such as procrastination, poor time management skills, etc. And the recent ongoing pandemic, Covid-19, did not help with these habits either, it made them worse for numerous children when they were online. I remember when my classmates were online, a lot of them would procrastinate on assignments and be lazy towards them just because it was online, and even though we had to check in with teachers every period in zoom, everything being online, with the screens glaring in our eyes, made it tiring. thus causing these issues. But even though the damage has already been caused, we can still make efforts to bridge the gaps, if we can teach kids about better habits in fun, engaging ways. I am an advocate for numerous issues as I am part of Girls4Sports/YAB, which advocates for gender equality in sports, and am part of the Advocates of Dublin which presents a speech about any prominent topic(mine is about permafrost thawing and the resurgence of viruses) to the City Council Members. In Girls4Sports, we are about to initiate our new event, which is having Ted-X-esque sort of speeches, where we present in front of about 100 people about different issues that should be brought to light. This is a great way for us to encourage more discussion and acknowledgment of these topics in our community, which can help our community thrive and show younger people examples of being an advocate, which is imperative to one's future. This also demonstrates how I take part in encouraging community discussions and standing for what I believe in, which I also aim to empower if elected to be in the YAC. Through these organizations, I have also learned crucial skills in being an advocate, such as presenting your ideas in a clean, organized way, speaking in front of people, coming up with fun, innovative ideas to educate as well as having productive, relevant discussions on various topics. So I will advocate for these issues and put in the work and time to mend these issues and represent our generation, for I believe that without offering support on these issues that teens struggle with, they will have trouble not just in high school, but in the workplace as well. I am not afraid to be assertive in what I believe in, as well as in taking action to support it. In addition to this, I am part of WEB in my school, which is like a freshman leadership program but for 6th graders. In this program, we share out strategies and help 6th graders feel more comfortable in their transition from elementary to middle school, and try to act upon what they need the most. This has given me a lot of incentive to be in the YAC as since I help younger students by catering to their needs and ensuring they strive in their new environment, I can further help the youth and my peers by taking on this government role and ensuring that our youth as a whole strive as well. Having this role to me is like WEB but a thousand steps higher, and that attracts me to this role as I want to make a difference in how we youth are represented and the resources we are given. But one of the most important things this opportunity gives the ability to express myself, through my beliefs, thoughts, and ideas, and to cultivate these with others. I do dance and Carnatic music(classical singing), and I have always shown self-expression in these art forms, so I know how important self-expression truly is. Dance and Carnatic music helped me define myself and express whatever feeling I felt, while also connecting me to my roots, so being able to express myself and what I think is best for the community is truly a golden opportunity that I will certainly be able to do well in. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* The skills I possess that would make me a strong candidate for the YAC are the skills of being assertive, being an attentive listener, and being a strong problem-solver. I also am an advocate for what I believe in, as demonstrated by my involvement in groups such as Girls4Sports, the Advocates of Dublin, and WEB, which are groups that allow me to fight for and talk about what I believe in. As I already have the skills of advocacy and fighting for what I believe in, as well as awareness of the challenges and experiences that the youth of our community face, I will be able to accurately represent them with these skills.

Using these skills of advocacy, which have taught me how to be a good speaker, have productive discussions, and demonstrate my ideas efficiently, I will not only be able to just speak on making a difference in the community but also act upon those words and take action, as action speaks louder than words. WEB also gives me experience in helping the youth and hearing their concerns. Being an attentive listener and assertive means that I can listen to all the complaints, thoughts, and struggles of the youth/those around me and be able to convey them without bias. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Issues teens in Dublin are currently struggling with are academic pressure/mental health, inability to have good habits in school, addiction/trouble with social media and technology, relationship issues, and lack of sleep. For these issues, YAC could create a safe space for youth to share their thoughts and feelings on these problems, or a Youth Wellness Center, which can be specifically for the youth to help them let out steam on these issues. A Wellness Center specifically geared towards the youth can enable them to feel more comfortable in sharing their feelings and not feel judged. They can also create an online version of this since teens are more likely to communicate their issues when they feel they are anonymous than in-person.

Moreover, in schools, the subjects taught often exclude life skills that are just as important as academics, since without these skills, one is unable to excel at both academics and in the future workforce. Without having good time management skills or being able to organize tasks that are due, one canâ€™t complete their assignments and would most likely procrastinate, producing poorer quality work. In addition, procrastination often becomes a habit; when one procrastinates a lot, it becomes addicting as if they can do it once, then an individual thinks that they can procrastinate again and still get a good score. That's why it is so imperative to build these habits up from when a child is young, as when they get to high school, these skills will be vital for them to succeed, as even if a child is a genius, without these skills, theyâ€™ll unnecessarily have trouble. The Avid Program does an excellent job of preparing young students for their futures by teaching these skills, however, one must take the Avid elective to have this knowledge, even though all kids need it. So I propose that YAC should have an informant/educator come to schools at least once a month to help kids develop these habits and skills, and host conferences where this educator could talk about the skills, both online and in person. Finally, it's sometimes difficult to find good opportunities for volunteering or internships or just even fun events for teens as there is so much going on in their lives, and having these opportunities all over the place causes them to need to hunt for them. So, the YAC could contribute to this issue by creating a platform where all the volunteering opportunities, internships, events, etc that are pertinent to the Youth are displayed in one place for the Youth to know what is available or not. These opportunities could be divided by age/grade and the type of activity it is. For example, if there is an internship for a computer science company, it could be under the technology section of the platform. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* The activities I will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year are Carnatic music classes, Basketball, Dance class, Girls4Sports, and coding class, and Iâ€™m looking forward to being able to join other clubs at DHS. I will definitely be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities as Iâ€™m used to managing this amount of things, and YAC is extremely important to me and the youth community of Dublin, so Iâ€™ll go out of my way to allocate for time, even if it means that I may need to skip out on a few classes sometimes. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Iâ€™d get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored events by promoting it more and highlighting its benefits. Using things such as social media and other online outlets to promote it is much more efficient than relying mostly on in-person promotion as teens are more likely to see it if it's online with the current surge of AI and technology. Highlighting the benefits of attending these activities and being involved in the community also will empower teens to participate because getting something out of it, like recognition or being put into a raffle or some sort of prize can serve as a motivation to participate. Prices can be simple, but if they help the student in the long run, such as in volunteering credits, etc, the event is sure to be popular. The benefits also don't always have to be in a physical form â€“ sometimes the skills and experience earned from it can be enough to attract teens, and if the event is promoted by capitalizing on that, then more teens are likely to be involved. In addition, these events can also be partnered with middle schools and high schools so all teens are more likely to hear about the event from their morning announcements and/or their teachers. Plus partnering with schools can encourage more discussion about these activities and be involved in the community among students, promoting more to take active roles.

Finally, if we can offer more inclusivity in these events, then teens can also become more involved. For example, some teens may not want to do a certain activity, but if there are more things they can do in the event, then they are bound to find a reason to come.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* Yes, I attended a City Council meeting, which was the meeting from March 7th, 2023. The item I was interested in was the Mosquito problem in CA. The Mosquito problemâ€™s outcome was more information on how mosquito control is being maintained in the district to avoid the spread of arboviruses and requests to the council on how they can help. These requests were for service from the public, and so the council decided the presentation was interesting and informative on how they could help, and agreed to support the presenter in helping the community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Rec Letter - Shreeya Rao Lalam.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
SRLRecommendation Letter.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1128

COTTONWOOD CREEK SCHOOL

DUBLIN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
March 20, 2023
To whom it may concern,
I am happy to write this letter of recommendation for Shreeya Rao Lalam. I teach 8th grade science and STEM electives at Cottonwood Creek K-8 School in Dublin, CA and Shreeya is a student in my science class. She is an intelligent and responsible young woman and an excellent science student. I appreciate how she makes connections to ideas beyond our lessons. She demonstrates a deep curiosity about the world and a passion for solving problems.

I was pleased to hear Shreeya is applying for the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee and I am happy to recommend her for it. In particular, I am impressed by her desire to be involved with our city government to represent and support her fellow teens. I believe she would make valuable contributions to the committee, and she would beneit from the opportunity to use and expand her leadership skills. It is my sincere hope that Shreeya gets the chance to serve her community on the Youth Advisory Committee. Thank you for considering her application.

Sincerely,
Gillian Rhett
Science and Engineering Teacher
Cottonwood Creek K-8
Dublin, CA
2400 Central Parkway • Dublin • California 94568 • (925) 833-3333 • Fax (925) 833-3711 1129 Cottonwood Creek K-8 School
Dublin Unified School District
Neeta Kaleshwari
Math Teacher
22, March 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

I am Neeta Kaleshwari. I am a Math teacher at Cottonwood Creek K-8 School. I am teaching Advanced Geometry to Shreeya Rao Lalam this school year. With great pleasure, I recommend Miss Rao for the 2023/24 City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee.

Miss. Shreeya is an impressive, creative and hardworking student. She has been in my Advanced Geometry class this year and teaching her has been a privilege. She is a determined student that always gives 100% for every assignment and consistently demonstrates deeper understanding of the concepts. She has displayed her strength and leadership quality on many occasions. She always takes initiative in complex problem solving and mentoring other struggling students. She is an excellent team player, she knows how to effectively manage and balance her daily schedule. She has maintained a grade of A+ in every term.

Beyond her academic studies, Miss Shreeya enthusiastically participates in outside school activities/clubs. She is a part of Girls4Sports and advocates for gender equality in sports. She is preparing for Ted-X-esque speeches to be presented in front of about 100 audience members. She has shown her dedication and interest in representing the community by encouraging the younger people to advocate for the issues that should be brought to light. She aspires to work in a government organization to bring change in the community. Dublin Youth Advisory Committee will give her the platform to view how the city functions and how democracy works. It will give her the opportunity to take action and stand for what she believes in. I highly recommend Shreeya R.

Lalam to be on this committee for her passion and aspirations to do something for the community.

Please contact me on my email, , for any questions or queries.

Sincerely,
Neeta Kaleshwari
Neeta Kaleshwari
6-8 Math Teacher
1130

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Siqi
Last Name*
Li
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5861 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1131
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Iâ€™ve lived in Dublin since I was born, so this city means a lot to me. Throughout my time here, Iâ€™ve been a part of countless recreational activities and meetings, and have seen every mayor our city has had since 2008. My first real encounter with Dublinâ€™s policy-setting representatives was during 6th grade when the pandemic started. I remember watching with suspense with my family for the district boardâ€™s decisionâ€”the decision between a pass/fail system or grades for online learning. When I saw the impact of each board memberâ€™s opinions, I wanted to be a part of that somehow. I see the YAC as a platform to create an impact within my city. Iâ€™ve personally witnessed the effects the pandemic has had on our community, from our small businesses shutting down to studentsâ€™ declining mental health. I have also seen the work of the YAC and Dublin City Council in encouraging our residents to explore new small businesses and talk openly about mental health. The direct local benefit of the work of the YAC is what makes me most interested to serve. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* A skill I possess that makes me a strong candidate for the YAC is the ability to take initiative in many of the activities Iâ€™m involved in. Iâ€™m involved in many different activities inside and outside of school. When an opportunity arises, I channel my strengths to make an impact in any organization Iâ€™m a part of. For example, despite being a freshman in my schoolâ€™s orchestra, Iâ€™m the secretary of Orchestra Council and first chair viola. I take an active role in keeping other orchestra members accountable and brainstorming ideas with other council members. At my fencing academy, I teach classes to young children on a volunteer basis. In the 2 years Iâ€™ve been fencing, my coach has supported me and been an amazing mentor.

By helping out with work around the club, heâ€™s allowed me to help out with his business and feel comfortable leading groups in activities. In addition, Iâ€™m a self-motivated and reliable worker. In any group setting, I brainstorm a plan and discuss the best approach with teammates. I hold myself accountable and discuss all decisions with my team. I am also an officer of Interact, a community service organization at my school. My co-event coordinator and I communicate daily about event ideas, and the bond that we have created with each other is crucial for the success of the events we plan. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
One issue teens in Dublin are currently facing is the issue of safety in schools. Recently, I have been witness to violence among peers around Dublin High, as well as substance abuse, theft, and other forms of misconduct. Many students I have spoken to do not feel safe walking to their classes alone. When students feel endangered, action must be taken to make our school a more welcoming place. Despite best efforts from Dublin High staff, fights can escalate quickly before an adult is capable of intervening. The YACâ€™s work on mental health awareness for teens is a major step in the right direction since a main contributor to violent conflict among teens is feelings of depression and difficulty managing anger. In addition to addressing the mental health factor, I would suggest that the YAC could work with the Dublin Police to create programs that provide outreach to at-risk youth and help them feel supported. A big reason why youth engage in criminal activity is that they feel lost and isolated at school or within their community in general. A police mentorship program to work specifically with atrisk teens would give these teens a mentor to look up to and a chance to feel camaraderie with other teens. These programs can work on building relationships with the teens through activities like team sports, art, or outdoor activities to build trust. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Activities Iâ€™m currently involved in are my schoolâ€™s Orchestra Council, DHS Interact Club Officer Board, fencing, and coding. One of the ways I manage my time spent on each activity is by scheduling each week into blocks. I set up prescheduled blocks of time to complete my homework and fulfill my extracurricular tasks. I am also able to prioritize my time based on what is more urgent each week. Once accepted into the YAC, I will make time to work and brainstorm on activities each month for our meetings. The YAC would be a top priority for me if accepted and I am confident I am able to attend all meetings on the fourth Wednesday of every month. For other YAC activities I may need to attend, I always try to make time on the weekends by completing schoolwork earlier for periodical events like hanging out with friends or, in this case, YAC activities.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved in these events by framing them as social events. For me and my friends, when weâ€™re trying to hang out together, weâ€™ll look at activities in our city coming up. If we encourage more teens to come to these events with their friends, theyâ€™ll enjoy it a lot more and feel more present in the activity. In addition to that, we can advertise community service hours and leadership opportunities to teens making it appealing to gain all these benefits while still bonding and hanging out with friends.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* A meeting I attended recently was the Dublin City Council meeting on February 6th that I watched live on Youtube. I was interested in this meeting because I had recently seen a post on the City of Dublinâ€™s Instagram about their Taste the World Passport Campaign. With my family, I participated in the campaign and visited restaurants from different cultures around Dublin that I hadnâ€™t realized existed before. After watching the meeting, I learned that this was part of a series of different campaigns to stimulate economic investment and learned about some more upcoming campaigns to further help small businesses in Dublin. I go to a lot of small businesses in Dublin regularly and I appreciate the effort the city council put into aiding these businesses. Due to our current financial issues and the aftermath of the pandemic, small businesses have been going through tough times. Seeing how the campaigns and events introducing me to new businesses were all a part of an organized campaign to help small businesses makes me appreciate the effort put into it and realize the work and planning that went into thinking of each of these events.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place. 1133
Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
YAC Recommendation Letter (3).pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1134
To whom it may concern:

It is with great pleasure that I write this recommendation for Siqi Li to support her application to the Youth Advisory Council. I have had the pleasure of having Siqi in my Precalculus class this year, and while in my class Siqi has proven herself to be a bright and hardworking individual both in and outside the classroom who is clearly passionate about her community.

From the start of the school year, Siqi always tried to help her fellow peers and make a place for herself in the classroom, not only as part of my Precalculus classroom but also outside of school by joining multiple clubs and activities at the school. Through her participation in many rigorous courses despite being a freshman as well as participating in clubs such as Girls Who Code, our School newspaper, and Interact, Siqi has demonstrated herself to be someone who not only embraces challenges, but is also unafraid to take initiative in new environments. She is not the type to let any opportunity pass her by, and by being on the Youth Advisory Council I am excited to see what changes she will make.

As a student in my Precalculus class, I observed Siqi to be a motivated, hardworking, and responsible member of the class. She excels in not only individual work by staying on task at all times but works well in teams also. She is self-motivated and always made sure to turn in all her assignments on time and completed. It is clear she truly enjoys learning, and always takes her time to think critically about problems she encounters. During group projects, she would not only actively participate, but would take initiative to successfully complete the project, and took care in making sure everyone in the group had a role. Siqi exhibits the qualities of a leader, and I believe she would be an asset in any classroom or organization.

In summary, Siqi is a hardworking and ambitious student who not only excels academically but also exhibits the qualities of a leader both inside and outside the classroom. She is truly passionate about learning and our community and works incredibly well with others. I believe that Siqi would be an amazing candidate for the Youth Advisory Committee.

Sincerely,
Elise Ackerman
1135

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Ananya
Last Name*
Mahad
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5855 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1136
City*
Dub n
State*
Ca forn a
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dub n H gh Schoo
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* For a ong t me, I had never had a rea nterest n be ng nvo ved w th my commun ty, and saw t as a most unnecessary w th no rea benef ts beh nd t. However, I was act ve y search ng for opportun t es that wou d he p me get outs de my comfort zone, and had never tru y found a way to nteract w th Dub n unt ast year when I started vo unteer ng for act vt es that nvo ved part c pat ng n Dub n as a commun ty, and after those exper ences, I rea zed that part c pat ng and be ng nvo ved w th one's commun ty had so much to offer. He p ng peop e through my act vt es at the Dub n L brary a med towards teens and k ds gave me a sense of pr de and a so he ped me rea ze that I had many deas that I wanted to share to mprove Dub n and ts youth. I enjoyed creat ng act vt es that were a med towards Dub n youth at the Dub n L brary. See ng that because I am a part of Dub n youth, I was ab e to recogn ze that I had more to offer n terms of deas and suggest ons. I a so rea zed how fun and mot vat ng t was to work w th other peop e n creat ng projects and act vt es. I wou d ove an opportun ty to work w th others, deve op ng and mp ement ng deas that wou d be more mpactfu through YAC. Recogn z ng the ssues of youth today s so cruc a n our ever-chang ng soc ety to make sure that Dub n youth doesn't fee that they aren't just a person n a vast c ty, but a person n a vast c ty w th a va uab e vo ce. A of these factors nsp red me to seek more act ve ways that I cou d be nvo ved n Dub n, wh ch s why I want to become a member of the C ty of Dub n Youth Advsory Comm ttee. (Th s box can be expanded by expand ng the ower r ght hand corner of th s box. Th s opt on may not be ava ab e for the Internet Exp orer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* For a wh e, I wasn't very good at commun cat ng, but I a ways had good deas that I never ended up shar ng due to th s ssue.

Recent y, I've been push ng myse f out of my comfort zones and after f nd ng better ways to express my deas, and I effect ve y deve oped better commun cat on sk s. Through eadersh p ro es w th n a group, I have earned that be ng open-m nded s key to be ng a good eader because everyone th nks d fferent y, and t's mportant to recogn ze that. Espec a y when t comes to ssues regard ng youth, everyone w come from a d fferent exper ence wh ch w affect how they we gh and see youth-re ated ssues. See ng that many of these ssues can come from persona exper ence, t's mportant to recogn ze that everyone w have d fferent, va uab e perspect ves towards one dea. I have earned how to be open to change and be w ng to adapt and work around a cha enge, e ther nd vdua y or n a group. In mu t p e group projects both n and out of schoo , I have rea zed that a though my groupmates and I m ght have d fferent ways of approach ng the prob em, we a have the same object ve, wh ch s a great nf uencer towards mot vat on to mak ng a comprom se. Ind vdua y, I have earned the mportance of se f-mot vat on by fac ng cha enges a one, such as at my job at Kumon when I faced ssues on how to dea w th a student who wasn't a very good stener. F na y, after observng how today's youth's ssues stems from both externa and nterna factors and be ng apart of that group myse f, t has great y nf uenced me to f nd a way to speak my deas and be ab e to put my deas to use by f nd ng ways to be nvo ved n the Dub n commun ty. I tru y be eve that I have the ab ty to contr bute va uab e deas towards ssues regard ng youth and teens. I wou d ove an opportun ty to put th s pass on and sk set to use through YAC. (Th s box can be expanded by expand ng the ower r ght hand corner of th s box. Th s opt on may not be ava ab e for the Internet Exp orer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
One ssue that I have observed that teens are dea ng w th s not more so of an nterna strugg e, but more of a ack of connect on to the envronment around them. Most teens don't usua y take opportun t es to f nd t me to connect w th Dub n.

They see Dub n as just a p ace where they are, not a p ace where they ve. A ack of exposure and nterest n be ng nvo ved n Dub n's cu ture, h story, and organ zat on has eft tt e room for an apprec at on of how Dub n tru y mpacts them as an nd vdua . Br ng ng awareness to these top cs can have an mpact as tt e as just an apprec at on for Dub n as a commun ty or as much as encourag ng one's nvo vement to tru y understand Dub n's cu ture and be the match that ghts a spark that s the beg nn ng of someone's vo ce as an nd vdua . Our generat on s the future of Dub n, and the f rst step to mak ng sure that Dub n grows as a commun ty s to expose teens who a ready have the nnate ab ty to contr bute even a sma dea to why be ng nvo ved n your commun ty s so cruc a . Th s awareness tru y encourages us that we have a vo ce that can be used to make Dub n better and u t mate y create a sense of be ong ngness and who eness. To effect ve y dea w th th s ssue, I be eve that YAC shou d mp ement st mu at ng act vt es that educate teens about the h story and cu ture of Dub n, foster ng a sense of pr de and nsp rat on. Add t ona y, events that revo ve around these deas where the ent re commun ty can be nvo ved, and havng teens run act vt es and such a ows for vsua evdence to teens of rea Dub n pr de and nsp re them to be tru y nvo ved n the Dub n commun ty.
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Next year, I w have comm tments to my job at Kumon, attend ng Teen Advsory Group meet ngs and other vo unteer events at the Dub n L brary, voca c ass, wr t ng art c es for my schoo newspaper, and I p an to start a non-prof t organ zat on next year.

However, these tems don't take up too much t me n my schedu e exc ud ng my job hours and the non-prof t (wh ch s f ex b e and I can reschedu e f needed), so I w be ab e to devote t me each month to YAC meet ngs and act vt es. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I am nvo ved w th the Dub n Pub c L brary and am an act ve part c pant n the Teen Advsory Group (TAG), contr but ng deas toward opportun t es/act vt es ma n y a med towards teens, but nc us ve to a ages, and we often bra nstorm and mp ement act vt es that nvo ve teens engag ng w th the Dub n L brary through events ke fam y board game n ghts and creat ng crafts. I wou d be ab e to get other teens nvo ved n the commun ty by promot ng act ve part c pat on n teen events and c ty-sponsored events by ra s ng awareness among my fe ow members and us ng our nf uence as a group to popu ar ze these events and encourage part c pat on. Add t ona y, soc a med a, f a owed to, s a so a great way to spread the word and encourage engagement. I a so wr te art c es for my schoo newspaper, and I cou d a so promote act vt es through wr t ng art c es about them.
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* Unfortunate y, I have not, but I wou d ove to attend one n the upcom ng future. (Th s box can be expanded by expand ng the ower r ght hand corner of th s box. Th s opt on may not be ava ab e for the Internet Exp orer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Ananya Mahadi Letter of Recommendation.pdf
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Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Ananya Mahadi letter of.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1139
Kumon Math and Reading
.

Dublin, CA 94568
March 14, 2023
I am writing in regard to Ms. Ananya Mahadi, who has requested a letter of recommendation on her behalf for the Youth Advisory Committee.

As the center manager, I had worked with Ms.Ananya for over 3 months in during her employment at the Kumon Math and Reading of Dublin Learning Center. With over four hundred students, she had been a tremendous asset to our company, serving as a teacher assistant in our center.

Over the time that I have known Ms. Ananya she has consistently performed her duties with competence.

Ms. Ananya exhibits a passion for mathematics and reading and has fine-tuned her skills while working with our students. She strives in this environment as she assists students and teachers.

Ms. Ananya is a team-player who is diligent, intelligent and self-motivated. She exhibits excellent written and verbal communication skills and has a great rapport with students and parents alike. In a fast-paced work environment, Ms. Ananya demonstrates that she can prioritize effectively and that she can multi-task well.

I believe that she can be a great asset to your team serving in a Youth Advisory Committee. Please reach out to me if you have any further questions.

Sincerely,
Anaya Madhekar
Center Manager
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March 17, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

It is with my sincerest pleasure that I am writing in recommendation of Ananya Mahadi as a potential candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I had the honor of being Ananya’s English teacher in her freshman English class (2021-2022), and I am pleased to inform you that the qualities she has shown in my class speak to her ability to make positive contributions to her future endeavors in your committee, as well as in our society as a whole.

What stands out to me about Ananya is her thoughtfulness and consideration for others.

She always arrived to class with a wise, mature, and positive spirit and a constant curiosity to learn. She was a memorable student, because she was always kind, put a great deal of effort into her writing, and truly strived to understand the literature we scrutinized as a class. She excelled in her analysis of our literature, such as Animal Farm and Romeo and Juliet. Her writing is robust and well organized, demonstrating her capabilities as a creative, complex thinker.

Additionally, each day, as we launched into the day’s activities, Ananya demonstrated her careful preparation through her detailed and well-thought-out responses. In her essays, Ananya constructed strong arguments, organizing thoughtful claims and providing complex analysis of literary devices. Her observations were sophisticated, and she was definitely one of the strongest writers in the class. In all of her assignments, also, Ananya demonstrated her close attention to detail. She consistently went above and beyond, providing multiple detailed descriptions of her reasoning for her responses. A testament to Ananya’s strengths as a writer comes in the form of www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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her Persuasive Speech, in which she crafted a compelling argument rallying against people owning exotic animals as pets. Ananya’s speech was well researched, and the strength of her claims, combined with her confident presentation skills and her use of rich figurative language, captivated the class. I loved observing Ananya’s presentations for our class, as I could easily tell just how much effort and preparation she had poured into her work, and she does a great job with swaying her audience.

Clearly, Ananya put a great deal of effort into her work, and the content she generated mirrors her ability to engage closely with the texts and concepts we discuss in class. In addition to her strong academic strengths, Ananya worked well with her peers in group assignments as well as discussions. Her peers often seemed to seek her as a teammate. She also never hesitated to ask me questions and for additional feedback, which she readily applied to her work. With her strong academic and interpersonal skills, Ananya is an amazing candidate for your Youth Advisory Committee. Please do not hesitate to accept her! Sincerely,
Carmen Chan
Dublin High School English Teacher
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Kaitlyn
Last Name*
Maskey
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5782 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
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City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the Youth Advisory Committee as I find this organization to be highly inclusive, connected, and innovative. The Committee addresses current issues Dublin teens are facing and work to offer solutions and support. The Committee has done so much for the Dublin community and will continue to do many more great things in the future. I hope to become a valuable member of the Youth Advisory Committee as I have many ideas that may benefit the youth of Dublin. Iâ €™m very committed to serving my community and I value the city of Dublin very much because it has provided me opportunities to grow and make me the person I am today. I know that by being a member of the Youth Advisory Committee, I will be able to offer ideas to bring positive changes within the Dublin community and provide support for my fellow youth. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I actively collaborate, engage, and communicate with others. I work well with anyone and am always open to hearing new ideas. I also cooperate and interact respectfully with others. I do my best to work well with others by listening to what they have to say and offering feedback. Engaging others is something I value as well. I understand what it is like to be left out of the conversation sometimes so I make it a point to be inclusive with others. I consider myself to be an ambivert, so I am comfortable with listening and speaking as well. Communication is something I value as well. Through multiple experiences as a Dublin LEAD volunteer and being on the DHS Cross Country and Track team, I have refined my communication skills and am able to communicate confidently with various age groups. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Current issues Dublin teens are facing include finding a balance with social media. While social media is a great way to spread information about current events and create many online relationships, social media has its fair share of downsides as well. For example, social media has the ability to affect oneâ€™s mental health and can decrease the quality of communication skills.

The YAC can address this issue by hosting an event in which teens attempt to go half their day without social media. The event will include various activities for the participants to engage in. Hopefully, by trying out these activities, the participants will find new hobbies to focus on, rather than being on their phone. Another issue teens in Dublin face is dealing with academic pressure. As a current sophomore at Dublin High, I feel the pressure from both my peers and my parents to achieve high grades by taking rigorous courses, balancing a bunch of extracurriculars, and holding various leadership positions. I know that I am not the only one feeling this stress, as many of my peers feel the same as well. The Youth Advisory Committee can host an event where Dublin alumni are invited to speak to current Dublin students. They can offer advice on how to manage academic stress, share about personal challenges they faced and how they overcame them, and can recommend various opportunities for the youth to get involved with. This event will allow struggling students to receive mentorship from university students who once were in their shoes.
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Currently, I am involved with the Dublin High Cross Country and Track Team. I am very dedicated to this sport as I spend around two hours everyday after school at practice. Being on this team has taught me how to manage my time as I have to balance my academic life with my athletic life. I will devote my time and full attention to each YAC meeting and activity. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved by posting on social media, sharing about these events during class and club meetings, and by advertising around various Dublin schools. Many teens have a social media account, which is how they learn about current events happening within their community. Sharing these activities in class and club meetings also gains the attention of students. Plus, these activities can also provide community service opportunities for students. Finally, advertising around various Dublin schools is another method to increase participation amongst the Dublin youth. Posting flyers and making public announcements at school will engage the students.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* While not recently, I attended a City Council meeting during May of 2022. At that City Council meeting, I learned about various service events organized by fellow Dublin High students. I listened as they spoke passionately about their projects and explained the impact their project made on the community. Listening to these presentations made me realize how important it is to serve the Dublin community. By attending this meeting, I also learned that to make a difference within your community, age does not matter. These service events were all organized by Dublin teenagers. This City Council meeting inspired me to contribute my ideas to make a difference within my own community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Kaitlyn Maskey Letter of Recommendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Kaitlyn letter of recomendation.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1145
Dear Boeard of Youth Advisory Committee,
My name is Daniel Olivas, and I am a Recreation Leader employed by the City of Dublin.

I am writing this letter to recommend Kaitlyn Maskey for the Youth Advisory Committee. I first met Kaitlyn in the summer of 2021. She was a volunteer for my summer camp, Camp Splash, and her natural talent for leadership, initiation, and resourcefulness cannot go unnoticed.

Within the last two years of knowing Kaitlyn, I had seen some tremendous achievements that will make her qualified for the Youth Advisory Committee. She is accommodating to different upbringings. Within our summer camp, we had many students of different races, religions, ethnicities, gender and age. Kaitlyn was able to connect to everyone. She helped coordinate the older campers (usually 10-12) to mentor and take care of the younger campers (6&7). Not only that, she also diffused tensions with students and helped them reach an emotional understanding for each other, demonstrating great strength in emotional maturity. She also has first-hand experience working with severely challenged students, that reinforces her skills in catering towards all youths of Dublin.

Kaitlyn possessed a great work ethic that is balanced with her fostering a healthy work environment. She shows up early/on time or communicates with us if her attendance would be altered in any meaningful way. She also provided a much welcome humor that is comfortable and boosted morale in the workplace. She took charge of many camp activities by her own intuition and helped provide solutions to improve management of the camp. Her mind was clearly eager to learn, and her desire to apply her learning in a positive way. By creating solutions, maintaining attendances, asking for criticism, Kaitlyn clearly is a goal oriented in creating a bright optimistic future for herself.

My words can not do Kaitlyn Maskey justice, she is truly an outstanding person whose integrity and work ethic must be witnessed first hand. You may contact me if you wish to acquire more.

With great thanks,
Daniel Olivas
Email:
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March 11, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

It is with my sincerest pleasure that I am writing in recommendation of Kaitlyn Maskey as a potential candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have had the honor of being Kaitlyn’s English teacher in her freshman English class (2021-2022), and I am pleased to inform you that the qualities she has shown in my class speak to her ability to make positive contributions to her future endeavors in your committee, as well as in our society as a whole.

Without a doubt, Kaitlyn stands out to me distinctly, as she excelled in our class and was one of my top students. She always arrived to class with a wise, mature, and positive spirit and a constant curiosity to learn. She was a memorable student, because she was always thoughtful, put a great deal of effort into her writing, and truly strived to understand the literature we scrutinized as a class. She particularly excelled in her analysis of our literature, such as Animal Farm and Of Mice and Men. Her writing is sophisticated and demonstrates her capabilities as a creative, complex thinker.

Additionally, each day, as we launched into the day’s activities, Kaitlyn demonstrated her careful preparation through her detailed and well-thought-out responses. In her essays, Kaitlyn organized her claims effectively and provided complex analysis of literary devices. Her observations were sophisticated, and she was one of the top scorers in her class. In all of her assignments, also, Kaitlyn demonstrated her close attention to detail. She consistently went above and beyond, providing multiple detailed descriptions of her reasoning for her responses. www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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Clearly, she put a great deal of effort into her work, and the content she generated mirrors her ability to engage closely with the texts and concepts we discuss in class. In addition to her strong academic strengths, Kaitlyn worked well with her peers in group assignments as well as discussions, and she often naturally took on the role of a leader. Her peers often seemed to ask her for her insight and guidance. She also never hesitated to ask me questions and for additional feedback, which she readily applied to her work. With her strong academic and interpersonal skills, Kaitlyn is a wonderful candidate for your Youth Advisory Committee. Please do not hesitate to accept her!
Sincerely,
Carmen Chan
Dublin High School English Teacher
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Aakrisht
Last Name*
Mehra
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5810 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1149
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11th

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublinâ€™s Youth Advisory Committee because this is a platform that represents the teen voices within Dublin. Usually, the opinions of teenagers are disregarded and arenâ€™t considered when it comes to making decisions for problems within a city, but this committee allows us to break past that repressive norm. For the past year, I have enjoyed being provided with the unique opportunity to have my voice heard and represented within a committee that makes decisions for the youth of Dublin. For the past year, I have been able to advocate, serve and drive youth civic engagement, which inspired me to become a member of the City of Dublinâ€™s Youth Advisory Committee Currently, the Youth Advisory Committee provides a platform for the public to present issues that affect the youth of Dublinâ€™s community and for the committee as a collective to act upon those requests and initiatives. For the past year, I have been proud to be a part of a collective that has distributed over $1500 to different non-profits throughout the city of Dublin, host the annual Benefit concert to raise money for underserved populations, and develop the Youth Hackathon to continue to advocate for the youth of Dublin. As a member of the Youth Advisory Committee, I have had the special opportunity to bring attention to the problems that occur within society, while retaining the ability to alleviate the problems faced at a city-wide level. This unique and special opportunity offered to the members of the Youth Advisory Committee continuously drives my interest in becoming a member of this committee. By becoming a member for another year, I would have the ability to represent and address the issues faced by the communities and the people that I would represent at a city-wide level. On top of the ability to represent the people within my community, I would have the opportunity to serve the community of Dublin. I believe that giving back to your community is an essential part of being a good citizen, which also influences a large number of the activities that I pursue outside of my academic life. For example, I created an organization called Elderly Care Everywhere, which was an organization that helped to alleviate loneliness and isolation for senior citizens within our community. This organization gave me the experience and the chance to give back to a specific part of my community, however, the Youth Advisory Committee presents the opportunity of taking this a step further. By being a part of the Youth Advisory Committee, you give back to the community and the people of Dublin, which is a special opportunity that contributes to my interest in becoming a member for the Youth Advisory Committee.

The final piece that influences my interest within the Youth Advisory Committee is civic engagement from teens in Dublin. Most cities donâ€™t offer the ability for teens to have a role within the government of a city. However, the city of Dublin provides the unique opportunity to boost teen civic engagement within the city's government. On top of teens having the chance to influence the decisions made at a city-wide level, they also have the ability to drive youth civic engagement. One essential fact that drives my interest in becoming a member within this committee is teens' influence. This means that the members who are elected onto the Youth Advisory Committee can influence their peers and drive youth civic engagement within the city of Dublin.

By becoming a member of this committee, I would have the ability to boost youth civic engagement, give back to my community and best represent the people.
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2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Leonardo Da Vinci once wrote about breaking obstacles with rigor and purpose, and this idea is closely tied with the importance of asking questions. Ironically, that leads me to the question: what is a question? While some associate it with knowledge and growth, it quickly became an avenue of thought for me. While my peers were learning to code and play with machines, I would play with words and ask the question â€œWhy?â€- Why is the sun so bright? Why does the wind blow? Throughout my life, questions have served as an outlet to understand the world from another perspective. And as I've grown older, my curiosity has continued to drive me to ask questions about society and the world at large. In today's increasingly interconnected and diverse world, the intersectionality of cultures within modern society creates a tapestry of shared experiences and traditions. It's important to ask questions and engage with this complexity, whether it's questioning Indian American representation in western media or simply debating who gets the last slice of my grandmother's green mawa cake.

Questions allow us to explore new ideas, seek out information, and clarify our thoughts and beliefs. They help us to think critically and challenge our assumptions, and they can lead to new insights and discoveries. Continuing to ask these questions at the Youth Advisory Committee will make me a strong candidate because it will allow me to utilize my experiences within the City of Dublin, and implement transformative action as a result. But outside of my ability to ask the right questions to best advocate for the youth of Dublin, I believe that my strongest skill that makes me the ideal candidate for the Youth Advisory Committee lies in my past experience with working with the City of Dublin. For the past year, I have served as a member on the Youth Advisory Committee where I have consistently spoken up, advocated for projects to benefit the youth and teenagers of the City of Dublin and serve as a member on two individual ad hoc committeeâ€™s that plan the City of Dublinâ€™s annual benefit concert and youth hackathon. I believe that my past experience of serving on the Youth Advisory Committee gives me the experiences, skills, and past knowledge to effectively implement change in the future by learning from the shortcomings of current YAC events to make these events better for the future. Furthermore, for the past three years, I have been nominated as the Young Citizen of the Year within the City of Dublin, which is a testament to my passion for civil service and helping the City of Dublin, which give me the ideal attributes for a member of the Youth Advisory Committee. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
We look to the mistakes of the past to improve in the future. For decades, teenagers across the world have continued to traverse through an unsupportive, cold-hearted, isolatory environment that broods feelings of hate, negativity and discourse instead of upholding the core tenets of civil happiness. I believe that the root cause of this discourse and unsupportive environment has been the lackluster support for mental health within the Bay Area for teenagers because of its coldhearted, serious nature. During the last few years, everyone has experienced a degree of strife and suffering in one way or another whether it was from the isolatory nature of the pandemic, the death of a loved one or the oppression of minorities across the U.S. Although the City of Dublin and Dublin High School have begun to take the first steps towards providing resources to help teenagers, these often fail to accomplish their intended task because they feel isolatory and have a large stigma associated with them. During the annual Youth Mental Health Forum held by the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee, I learned about the stigma associated around mental health, which led me to ask my peers about their experiences of getting support for any decorations in their mental health. What surprised me about this, was that despite the number of resources put forth by Dublin High School and the City of Dublin, students, particularly teenagers, feel reluctant to utilize these resources because they perceive these resources to only be for people with a â€œproblemâ€. Breaking down this stigma around mental health should be one of the primary priorities of the Youth Advisory Committee because this has been one of the root causes of the strife that the youth have faced within the city of Dublin. Although the Youth Mental Health Forum was the first step in breaking this stigma for the youth of Dublin, I believe that there are a number of steps that must be taken by the Youth Advisory Committee to effectively tackle this issue. To begin with, this event must be held at a more central, accessible location that feels familiar and safe for the youth of Dublin given the sensitive nature of these topics. Taking this step allows for greater accessibility to this event while further reinforcing the notion that mental health is for anyone and it isnâ€™t shameful to ask for help when you need it. Furthermore, I believe that adding more youth panelists to talk about their experience will further expand interest in this event because it allows for the attendees to form a personal connection with their peers on the Advisory Board and for them to feel like their voices are being heard.
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* One of my key attributes that allowed me to attend every Youth Advisory Committee meeting, every ad hoc meeting that I was a part of and all of the events that were run by the Youth Advisory Committee is my ability to manage my time. Regardless of the extracurricular activities that I will be participating in during my hopefully next year at the Youth Advisory Committee, I am confident in my ability to represent the teenagers of Dublin to my best ability. Regardless, I plan on taking a step back from some of my current extracurricular engagements to focus on what matters most to me, which will allow me to dedicate ample time towards the Dublin Youth Advisory Committees meetings and engagements. There are two primary activities that I will be working on throughout the 2023-2024 school year, which include the Dublin Mayorâ€™s Council and Elderly Care Everywhere. I believe that my work at the Dublin Mayorâ€™s council will allow me to become a more informed, well-connected sophomore who can harness his experiences to become a better advocate for the youth on the Youth Advisory Committee. This also teaches me the necessary skills for leadership, which can help me create a more coordinated effort between the Dublin Mayorâ €™s Council and the Youth Advisory Committee to effectively tackle the problems that the youth in Dublin face. Next, by continuing my journey with Elderly Care Everywhere, I can take this platform to new heights and best assist the senior citizens within our community. Even as we recover from the Covid-19 pandemic, loneliness and isolation have always been prevalent problems for senior citizens. By continuing and expanding upon the mission of Elderly Care Everywhere, we can continue our work to prevent senior isolation and best benefit our community. Over the next year, we have the ability to revolutionize life for senior citizens within Dublin, which is why this is an activity that I will continue to pursue. I believe that my experiences within debate and Elderly Care Everywhere would increase my contributions to the Youth Advisory Committee because I would be bringing the opinions of two very diverse demographics to the committee. This would allow for a wide array of opinions to be considered and included within the decision made regarding anything that this committee would discuss. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Although in the past year, the online presence of the Youth Advisory Committee has continued to grow, I believe that there are a few key steps that must be taken to foster youth civic engagement across the city of Dublin. I believe that the first step to driving youth civic engagement within the city must come from increasing the online presence of the Youth Advisory Committee. Even as a member of the committee in the 2022-2023 year, I often struggled to find the informational flyers that my fellow committee members have made for their events, which is indicative of a larger problem which is a lackluster social media presence. The large majority of the Youth Advisory Committee's online presence comes from the City of Dublin account, but this fails to attract the attention of our target audience, the youth of Dublin. I believe that the easiest solution to this program is creating a social media page dedicated to the Youth Advisory Committee. This doesnâ€™t mean that the Youth Advisory Committee should stop promoting on the City of Dublin instagram, but instead, it offers a solution to drive more youth civic engagement because this forms a more personal connection with the youth of Dublin. Creating an account only for the Youth Advisory Committee will allow us to effectively market our solutions to the youth of Dublin in a fast, efficient manner and allow us to effectively reach out to our target audiences. But beyond increasing our online social media presence, I believe that the next step that the Youth Advisory Committee and the city of Dublin must take as a collective is establishing a better relationship with our local middle and high schools. The easiest way to promote an event and directly reach out to the youth of Dublin is going to be through educational platforms, however, our current relationship with the school is mediocre at best, which doesnâ€™t allow us to market our events through the school. I believe that one of the top priorities of the Youth Advisory Committee in the 2023-2024 year should center around establishing a professional relationship with the educational institutions around Dublin to drive youth civic engagement in the most effective way possible. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have attended all of the Youth Advisory Committee meetings over the 2022-2023 year since I was appointed as a committee member last year. The past meeting that I attended on 03/22/23 started off with the pledge of allegiance and public comment.

During public comment, we were given the opportunity to hear from a city librarian and from an organization that helps accelerate the development and readiness of young women around Dublin. After that, we heard from the annual benefit concert ad hoc committee that I am a part of which provided the committee with an update on all of our latest developments. But on a more important note, over the past year, I have had the opportunity to learn more about the work of the Youth Advisory Committee. Two years ago, I was astounded to learn about the Youth Advisory Committee because I never fathomed that the voices of teenagers would be able to be represented at a city level, which led to my application and appointment last year. But unfortunately, many of my peers are still in the dark about the crucial mission of this committee. If given the opportunity next year, my first goal as aI had the ability to explore the work of this committee and learn about the chance to become a member would be to bring this committee into the spotlight of Dublin because this would drastically increase Youth Civic Participation within Dublin and give everybody the chance to help their community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Letter of Rec-Aakrisht.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1153
March 20th, 2023
Dear Selection Committee,
I am pleased to recommend Aakrisht Mehra for admission to the Dublin Youth Advisory Council. I have the privilege of being Aakrisht’s French 3 teacher this year at Dublin High School.

From day one, Aakrisht has put nothing but his best effort into everything he does in class. His interest in learning about the French language and culture, his inquisitive mind, and warm personality served him well in class projects and presentations where he shined as a confident and responsible student who’s always ready to collaborate with his classmates in an amicable and effective way.

In addition to his academic performance and friendliness, Aakrisht is a caring young man who created a project to help senior citizens in Dublin order their groceries for free as well as a pen pal project that encourages elderly people in his hometown to connect with each other.

Aakrisht is also a member of a youth committee who plans and organizes fun events to support Dublin Youth and help them develop their skills and knowledge.

Aakrisht’s respect for other cultures, caring nature, and leadership skills make him a great candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Council and assure that he can do an excellent job in planning events that benefit the diverse youth community of Dublin.

Sincerely,
Claude Isaac
French Teacher
Dublin High School
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
1154

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Aarna
Last Name*
Mehra
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5819 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1155
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Fallon Middle School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 8th grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because I believe in our city, my home. I have lived here for seven years and have a lot of friends, and they all have done their best to help and support me. Everyone in Dublin is compassionate, caring, and supportive and I want to help everyone here, even if I don't know them or have never talked to them in my life. The teenagers here posses something that not a lot of other cities have to offer: empathy. Everyone has always helped and guided each other, showing how Dublin is one of the most incredible places to live in already, but I believe that we can make it better. I would like to help direct Dublin towards a place where everyone feels safe and loved and knows that they are appreciated.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I am a strong leader, am trustworthy, responsible, patient, respectful, and am not afraid to speak my mind. I work well with other people, make rational decisions, and I always analyze the outcome and effect of my decisions on the people that surround me, whether I know them or not. I do debate, which makes me a strong candidate for the YAC as I am very skilled when it comes to public speaking and acting as the voice for those that can't . I am also very focused and always give a hundred and ten percent towards everything that I do.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
As a teen, I am aware of some of the issues that teens in Dublin are already facing. Some of these issues are stress, anxiety, bullying, and even the feelings of rejection and isolation. After the coronavirus pandemic and having to quarantine, some teenagers were not able to adjust to life and felt totally isolated. I believe we can do something about that like having more events for kids and teenagers in general to socialize, and acknowledge that they aren't alone. There are still some teenagers that are getting bullied today, and still don't feel safe around their fellow classmates and peers. These teenagers could be feeling scared and might even think that there is something wrong with them. This is completely unacceptable because these teenagers should understand that they are important to people, deserve to live, and are cared for. I propose that Dublin should start having social circles for people to share their thoughts with, serving as a safe space so people can express their feelings and stay healthy.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* I will be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities. I am currently involved in a non-profit organization called Rediscovering STEM which strives to educate everyone that does not get the same opportunities as other children in the field of STEM. I am also involved in sports and math extracurricular activities. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I would get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities by reaching out to the principal at my school and having them announce the information about the events on the morning announcements. I would also find ways to spread word of the events by mouth and convince people to attend them by showing how beneficial and opportunistic the events could be for people.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, I have not recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
AM LoR 22.23.docx
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1157
To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing this letter to recommend Aarna Mehra for a position on the Youth Advisory Council. I am currently her 7th grade English teacher at Fallon Middle School and have had the delight of getting to know her this past school year. Aarna is incredibly thoughtful and insightful. In our very fast paced world, she actually takes time to think through her assignments in class, and situations she finds herself in. I have been able to trust her- both, in regards to the quality of her schoolwork, and in her character.

She is diligent and timely, but one of her greatest attributes is that she is someone you can count on.

You would be remiss to choose another candidate over her.

Should you want to follow up, you can reach me at
All the best,
Shawna Healy
1158

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Austin
Last Name*
Meng
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5837 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1159
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11th Grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* The quote ""it takes a village to raise a child"" resonates with me and summarizes my motivations - Dublin as a community raised me - from the painted utility boxes to city-wide events to the people, every element has nurtured me to grow in a safe and positive environment. I'm a strong believer in civic duty, so I believe that I not only have a moral obligation to be involved in my community and serve on this council, I also believe I have an obligation to pay it forward to younger children and continue to foster this loving and vibrant city. For me, Dublin's most outstanding facet is its arts and culture, especially the St. Patrick's Parade and Splash. I hope to continue these events and am particularly interested in the logistical aspect. Specifically, I hope to introduce more minority-culture events. Larger-scale Diwali and Lunar New Year festivals in Emerald Glen could be a place to start and also further emphasizes our diversity. In addition, I hope to be able to advance the celebration of LGBTQ+ individuals, especially youth. Albeit a lofty ambition, I wish to push forward pride celebrations specifically targeted to LGBTQ teenagers and young adults. Even a place such as Dublin has roadblocks to the normalization of LBGTQ individuals, but I know it can happen.

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I struggled significantly coming to terms with my own identity, especially because there was no mention or celebration of the LGBTQ community. This could come in the form of supporting local LGBTQ+ organizations, and in the future, itâ€™s a long term ambition of mine to organize a Splatter-like LGBTQ+ pride event in Dublin. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* An experience that highlights several transferable skills is my time volunteering at a nonprofit called "Kids Against Hunger".

Basically, the nonprofit works by hosting "groups" of people (other nonprofits, school clubs, birthday events, etc), in which attendees package food in bags. By joining the organization itself, my responsibility is setting up/cleaning up, packaging boxes, and ensuring the event runs smoothly. Usually we have anywhere from 60-80 people in a modest warehouse, on average packaging 20k meals in 1.5 hours. As such, it is an extremely fast paced environment. Our event leads are usually very busy, so I had to quickly learn how to figure out where I was needed and make myself useful and work independently - if that was refilling soy or rice, taping up boxes, or answering questions. This has taught me how to become an effective collaborator - I need to clearly communicate with my fellow staff and find ways to get along with various people with different personalities, backgrounds, and ages. The fast-paced nature of each packaging event has also helped me become a better problem solver and strengthened my ability to lead. Thereâ€™s often times in which we may run out of packaging boxes, tape guns, or experience an overflow of food packages. Oftentimes, itâ€™s up to the responsibility of volunteers to uncover a problem and resolve it, and I quickly realized the importance of working as a team and collaborating. I am also a member of the Dublin Mayorâ€™s Council, in which I learned how to transform a plan or dream into something tangible - I worked with my peers in creating monthly writing workshops to educate middle schoolers on high-school level standards of speaking and writing, and hosted various events for Senior Citizens, most recently by making cards during St. Patrickâ€™s day. These projects taught me how to plan and coordinate to eventually turn a dream into reality and honed my affinity with logistical planning - and would be a useful skill in assisting with the implementation of youth activities. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I believe teenagers in Dublin are experiencing a severe mental health crisis from both social and academic pressure. As teenagers, we experience heavy social pressure to find friends and fit in, which disenfranchises students and excludes them from the community. I think this could be resolved in part through social interaction events for teenagers, possibly by utilizing the city library and tapping into niche interests - different fandoms, games, books, etc. Arguably even more importantly, teenagers experience the expectation to be academically successful and maintain high grades for 6+ classes (usually at the honors or AP level). Not only does this add significant workload to students and impact their stress levels, it also adds on significant pressure from a culture of hyper-competitiveness. I donâ€™t think we can stop teenagers from being competitive, but we can certainly soften the blow of academic pressure by promoting mental health days and creating city-wide study groups for specific subjects. I think the city library is an excellent, untapped public facility for those purposes. Another issue facing Dublin teens - specifically LGBTQ teens - is the lack of a proper support network on the city level. While Dublin High does offer support for LGBTQ+ teenagers, the City of Dublin can do more to support questioning and closeted LGBTQ people, especially for younger teens and middle schoolers. I think this can be achieved through introducing more age-appropriate LGBTQ+ representation in fiction, inclusive lessons, & transparency in how schools can support LGBTQ, particularly trans, students. I also believe more can be done in connecting Dublin teens with organizations that can provide specific support. Iâ €™d also like to expand emphasis in the humanities and arts for students - I believe Dublin parents have a strong prioritization of STEM academics, and I hope I can stimulate interest in literature, history, and the performing arts towards teenagers not only as an interest, but also as a career pathway. I think this can be done through supporting humanities-related city organizations or nonprofits as well as through creating more writing and drawing opportunities for students - through competitions, projects, and art showcases (the utility boxes were a great start!). (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Iâ€™m currently involved with swimming, speech & debate, the Dublin Mayorâ€™s Council, and various volunteering organizations. However, I am more than willing to move time aside for YAC meetings & activities - the swimming season is only for a few months, and as long as Iâ€™m notified soon enough of YAC events, I can set aside time to attend them (and I can clear out my schedule for YAC meeting nights immediately if accepted!). (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I think one major reason teens arenâ€™t currently as involved in the community as they could be is because these events are publicized poorly for teenagers - for instance, few of my classmates even knew that the recent St. Patrickâ€™s Day parade would be followed by a festival that lasted through the weekend. One place to start would be by better disseminating information in schools through flyers posted in classrooms or announced by teachers. It may also be helpful to have an organized document of all city-wide events or teenage activities and distribute it widely (a similar document exists for my schoolâ€™s Biomedical Academy, in which our teachers and peers regularly update each other with opportunities and events).

We can also tap into popular forms of communication for teenagers - on Discord, social media apps, and through publications on the Dublin Shield newspaper.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place. 1161
Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Austin Meng Letter of Rec.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1162
1163

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Ananya
Last Name*
Menon
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5785 Date Submitted: 3/23/2023
1164
City*
Dublin
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 10 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I would love to become a member of the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee to make a difference in our community, learn more about local government, and how Dublin works to create and maintain such a diverse and friendly community. Being in the YAC will give me the opportunity to not only address the needs of the youth of Dublin, but also work towards making the community a more positive environment. In most forms of government, the youth are not represented in community decisions. Joining YAC would allow for me to advocate for this generation and pave the way for many more to come through my experiences and issues with the city. My family and I moved to Dublin in 2018, and I started 5th grade at James Dougherty Elementary.

Everything about Dublin, the people, the environment and the effort it takes to consider peoplesâ€™ values and opinions always interested me to take part in, as most cities I have previously lived in don't. I would like to work and take every step that I can in both an individual and team-based environment to make Dublin a better place for people of all ages. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* Growing up, I was very shy and often struggled to have a conversation with children my age. Speaking to adults was worse. I remember struggling to even complete a sentence. In middle school, I chose Yearbook as an elective due to my interest in photography. I also thought it was a great opportunity to hone my communication skills in both an academic and social environment. Due to the pandemic, we had to create our yearbook in a remote setting for the first time ever. This required us to interact more effectively as a team. Throughout the year I put in additional hours after school to accomplish deadlines, and by the end of the 7th grade, I was more confident in my interactions. In 8th grade, I was recognized for my efforts and contribution, and was appointed Chief Editor of the first ever newspaper. This role required me to lead most interviews. Over the two years, I learned many lessons from talking to people about their achievements, accomplishments, inspirations and failures. I was able to appreciate the diversity of peopleâ€™s backgrounds and experiences and it made me realize how everyone has something different to offer. I think it is very important to embrace and value otherâ€™s ideas and perspectives, especially in an academic environment since it encourages conversation, questions and thoughtfulness. Though I had never been a people person, the yearbook class helped me develop an interest in engaging with peers and learning about others. Now I implement these skills I developed on a weekly basis by teaching guitar and math to children through a school club, as well as working to open a nonprofit tutoring business with two of my best friends. At YAC, I am confident in my ability to implement these skills and help contribute to the team.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Some common issues teens face not just in Dublin but across the world are mental health, cyber bullying and substance abuse. YAC can address these issues by creating a safe space for teenagers to voice their concerns in both academic and social environments. This could be as simple as hosting workshops, fundraising events, or teen activities during holidays such as spring and winter break, to increase interaction between children and decrease the amount of mental harm a child goes through during their upbringing. Sometimes having just one friend to help support you during a tough time can be beneficial, and YAC can help teens with common interests connect with each other. Another struggle that teenagers deal with is enough physical activity. With increased amount of homework and stress, and no required P.E. class, students do not get enough time or motivation to exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle. YAC could implement a simple, yet effective program to help teenagers get activity through doing something that they love. One last idea that would be highly beneficial to both teenagers and parents would be a workshop about getting ready for college. Many first generation students in the U.S. have trouble figuring out how the education system works, especially since their parents didn't study in the country. YAC can hold Q&A sessions with students who have already gone through the process to help upcoming high school students get an idea of what the process is. This will also help decrease the amount of stress and stigma around college and preparing for the future. Being part of the committee will help our team create a more personal connection between the city and its people. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Currently, I swim for Tri Valley Aquatics as well as the DHS Swim Team. I also partake in yoga 3 days a week, and love hanging out with friends. At school, I am part of the DHS Dragon Flower Club, which advocates for mental health awareness through fundraisers. My elective choice for this year was Sculpture & Ceramics, and I absolutely love the class. One of my passions is ceramics, and I plan to take the honors class offered here at DHS. Throughout the next 4 years at DHS, I plan to take a handful of APs in classes that I am interested in, and am also looking to complete the biomedical pathway. My course load for next school year is not too heavy, and I will spend most of my time on homework on weekdays. Aside from school related activities, I am starting a project to help teenagers take care of their mental health through 15 minute daily yoga exercises, and working on it approximately 1-2 hours a week. I am confident in my ability to devote time each month to YAC, be present and advocate for ideas to bring positive change in the community.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I believe making events interactive and interesting for teenagers is the best way to get them to be involved and partake in community events. Children and especially teens need some sort of entertainment or motivation to participate and making the events fun will motivate them to do so. To get more children involved, I would spread the word through social media, fun advertisements and through parents. Advertising in school through teachers and flyers across campus is a great way to spread the word as well. Additionally, holding workshops to educate older children about the benefits of community participation and service could help convince them to be more present in their community. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not yet attended any council meetings.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Menon_LOR.pdf
1166
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
LoR for Ananya Menon 2023 Dublin City Council
draft1.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1167
Dublin Unified School District
Dublin High School
8151 Village Parkway
Dublin, California, 94568
Principal AP AP AP AP AP
Maureen Byrne Kevin Cushing Lisa Diaconis Whitney Dwyer Diane Santamorena
Andrew
Waranoff
March 2023
To whom it may concern,
Please accept this letter of recommendation for Ananya Menon.

My name is Isaiah Mohr, I was Ananya’s Freshman Seminar instructor at Dublin High School from August to December of 2022. During that time, I got to know Ananya and was able to appreciate her work ethic and ability to lead less-than-ideal groups to ideal goals.

Ananya is an incredibly well-rounded individual. She is a hard-working athlete, studious scholar, and social butterfly. Throughout the semester I had with her, Ananya’s work ethic shined and attracted others. As a rule, she quickly grasps topics and tasks at hand and gets to work on them. When she has questions, she doesn’t hesitate to ask others for clarification and shares what she’s learned with those around her.

These traits are especially useful in group settings. Since Freshman Seminar is a general ed class, there are plenty of instances where a group is formed that, for one reason or another, does not gel well or has problems staying focused on delivering a product. Ananya’s groups never had that problem. No matter who she was teamed up with or what the project was about, she was able to guide her sometimes more chaotic classmates to a presentable product.

She does this without becoming a group dictator or by performing every task; instead, she helps others where it’s needed, fills in gaps that appear, and appeals to the better senses of her peers.

Ananya’s strong work ethic, desire to help, and strong social skills recommend her for a position on the Youth Advisory Committee.

Cheers,
Isaiah Mohr
Biology Teacher
1168
March 22, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

It is with great enthusiasm that I write this letter of recommendation for Ananya Menon. I have gotten to know this incredible student at Dublin High School this school year in my Health class.

Ananya demonstrates all of the qualities that a young leader should possess; eagerness to learn, intent listener, strong collaborator, and self motivated. She would be an asset to the City Youth’s Advisory Committee.

Ananya has years of experience being actively involved in her areas of interest. Some include her passion for music, specifically playing the guitar. Ananya is also an avid swimmer and devotes her time to improving her abilities not only in the pool but by practicing yoga on a regular basis.

Ananya is curious about science and has been exploring this avenue in the BioMed Academy during her freshman year. In each of these areas, Ananya has demonstrated responsibility and a wide range of skills that are applicable to being a life-long learner and leader. Curiosity drives Ananya and she can look at the world through this lens, which is an asset that most students her age do not possess.

Ananya, as a student in class, has the ability to lead in a quiet way. What I mean by this is that her strength is shown not in a loud voice that dominates, but in her ability to listen and contribute thoughtfully. She is able to listen to her peers and other adults, ask great questions, and then in turn produce solid outcomes in group and individual projects.

Please reach out with any questions on this highly qualified candidate for the City Youth’s Advisory Committee.

All my best,
Joy Sherratt
Dublin High School Teacher
USF Adjunct Professor
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
1169

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Mikayla
Last Name*
Molnar
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5857 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1170
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 12 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to become a member of the City of Dublin YAC because I believe that there are many things to be done about different issues I've seen among teens in Dublin. In the past, I've had a few leadership positionsâ€”many of which weren't entirely influential. However, I learned lots from my time as a leader and mentor to other people, but I also noticed many gaps that could be filled. Naturally, it is impossible to ensure that everyone is happy with certain policies, but I want to be the voice for a group of people who are often overlooked. I've always considered myself someone who is sort of in-between cliques, but because of that, I've learned a lot from the people I interact with. I know that my range of experiences will allow me to represent a wider range of opinions.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I consider myself a headstrong, amiable, and organized person. The goals I set for myself are always high, and I will always see things as they are and try to make the best of my situation. In regards to others, however, I tend to be a better listener than I am a leader. I make sure that everyone is always heard to the best of my ability and that their opinion is at least considered.

Within leadership, I believe it's very important that leaders don't just advocate for their own opinions but rather, listen to the people and make what they believe is the best decision after thorough consideration. As of recent, I've noticed too many leaders who only listen to one side of an argument, but I believe the most important part of any disagreement is making sure that both sides are equally seen and acknowledged, even if only one side will get their way. As a stronger listener, I will make sure that everyone is heard even if I don't get to address the issue myself, as long as one person is listening, that's enough for some people.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I believe that an issue that is unique to teens in Dublin is the disconnect they feel from each other. Due to Dublin being so large and diverse, there is a sort of rift between different groups of people. As someone who lives in West Dublin but, of course, interacts with many people from East Dublin, I understand where the divide stands. I no longer see the people I remember from elementary and middle school despite going to the same school; they are in a different world of their own. Of course, it is very hard to combat an issue that is due to population size, but I feel the main goal should be connecting different people within the same community. I think YAC could promote community-building events either in or out of school. This way, people from all sorts of backgrounds and experiences could meet and form connections they might otherwise not have made. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* For the next school year, I plan on continuing with my usual extracurriculars. I currently have violin and oboe lessons once a week as well as devote my time to volunteering with various organizations. These, however, aren't every single week so I don't foresee any complications. Because it will be my senior year, I plan on taking some easier courses, so my homework load shouldn't be too much. However, one of the classes I will take next year happens after school. Hopefully, the meetings and activities for YAC won't fall on the same day or time, but as of now, it is unknown. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* As I mentioned before, I would like to get more teens involved in community-building activities. However, I also believe many activities geared toward college and career prep are something many would be involved in, especially those who are unfamiliar with the process of applications. Knowing the opinions of many different teens, I would say that events that could either help promote their self-confidence or comfort with tasks such as public speaking would also be very useful. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No, unfortunately, I've never attended any sort of City of Dublin meeting. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Mikayla Molnar - _Letter of Recommendation.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1172
D
23 March 2023
Dear Dublin Youth Advisory,
It is my pleasure to recommend Mikayla for the Youth Advisory Committee. I have known Mikayla for this school year and enjoy my time as her teacher in US History. Mikayla has been an awesome student this year and I think she’d be a great addition to the Committee.

Mikayla has been a wonderful addition to my US History class. This particular class is very loud and lively, but Mikayla stands out because she has a gentle and mature manner about her. When asked to share, she always has insightful things to say. I think that Mikayla has added a really great balance to the class. She always puts her full effort into assignments and I never see her off task or distracted. The work that she produces is high quality and she goes above and beyond.

Additionally, she works really well with the people around her and her peers seem to really like her.

Mikayla has taken on a really challenging course load this year but manages it with high success and ease. She is a part of the BioMed Academy as well which is a highly esteemed program at our school.

I think that Mikayla is a great candidate for the committee. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns. I recommend her without hesitation.

Best regards,
Hannah Moreno
Hannah Moreno
English Teacher
Dublin High School
1173

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Zain
Last Name*
Mustafa
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5839 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1174
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin Highschool
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 12 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* Today's youth are facing problems that are quite different from what the previous generation has faced. The City of Dublin needs to hear about these problems firsthand from the people who are facing them. I believe that my strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills can help me represent the youth in Dublin and relay issues we face to the City. I have also been part of a program called Muslims Game Changers Network where I learned topics such as civil rights and advocacy and also gained knowledge on community development and leadership skills. I believe I can use my knowledge and skills to relay the problems of Dublin youth and help them tackle these issues. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I have been a Math tutor, teaching Elementary, Middle and High School students for the past 3 years and as a result I have developed strong communication skills. I have also been working at Kumon as a grader which has helped me gain valuable interpersonal skills. This job has also thought me strong organization skills as I must juggle teaching and grading multiple students within a short time frame. I am also extremely determined. I have spent countless hours this year working on a robot with my team even when it looked like we would not be able to finish. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
There are many students that are looking for work and are unable to find employment. I am hoping that YAC will help these youth by providing resume writing workshops, organize career fairs and providing interview guidance. YAC can also help youth find youth opportunities by partnering with non-profit organizations and businesses in the area. I also see that there has been an increase in vaping among the teen population. I am part of an organization called Tobacco Use Prevention Education (TUPE) which educates young people about the dangers of tobacco use. I have helped organize events in school through this school for Red Ribbon Week and for the Great American Smokeout. I have been trained to take action on important issues such as this and create lasting change. I would like to work with YAC to promote awareness about this substance abuse. I am also aware of an increase in bullying, especially cyberbullying among the teens. I would like to work with YAC in creating resources to provide to teens strategies in dealing with bullying. Bullying can have a large negative impact on the teen population so it is imperative that the YAC helps to address this issue.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Some of the activities which I am involved in include GaelSuite, robotics, aerospace, Tobacco Use Prevention Education, and work. Many of these activities have flexible hours so I will be able to clear up my time for any TAC meetings and activities.

Additionally most of these activities such as aerospace and robotics, happen only during a few months of the year so my schedule can remain open for any work related to YAC. GaelSuite Finance Lead (2 hours / week) GaelSuite is a student driven organization which works on projects pertaining to robotics. My leadership role in this organization is to lead a team of 21 students with the primary goal of raising funds for the VEX competition teams. As the Finance Team Lead, it is my responsibility to develop financial strategies, manage deadlines, and communicate with donors in order to secure funding for the robotics club. Since competition teams require such a large amount of money to operate, the finance team is crucial in order to keep costs manageable for everyone. In this role I have developed strong leadership skills, financial knowledge, and strategic thinking. GAEL Force Robotics Team Member (10 hours / week) Gael force robotics is a school club which participates in the VEX robotics competitions. There are currently 7 competition teams within the club and new members are selected through a draft. In order to join a competition team I had to participate in the development program for a few months and then be selected to join a team. Currently I have been on the 5327B competition team for a couple of months now and have sharpened my skills in mechanical engineering. My role on the team is to work on the robot and fine tune the different components in order to optimize them for the coder. DHS Aerospace Club Team Member (3 hours / week) I am currently a member of the Dublin High School Aerospace Club which hosts regular meetings and activities. The club participates in a variety of competitions and encourages each member to choose a specific competition team to join. I have joined the rocketry team and our task is to create a submission for the Annual American Rocketry Challenge. I am responsible for building part of the rocket and also giving input on the materials being on the project. Math Tutor (2.5 hours / week) I am a peer tutor at Dublin High School and help students with Math every Wednesday. I also tutor a middle school student in Math outside of school hours. Tobacco Use Prevention Education (TUPE) - Team Member (2 hours / week) TUPE is a program aimed at educating young people about the dangers of tobacco use and the impact it has on their health and well-being. We have been trained by Alameda county in order to deliver information on the health effects of tobacco, the addictive nature of nicotine, and strategies for avoiding the use of tobacco. I have helped organize events in school through this club such as Red Ribbon week and the Great American Smokeout. I will also be participating in the Action Changes Things Conference on March 21st where I hope to learn how to take action on important issues and create lasting change. Work - Kumon Grader (5 hours / week) A Kumon Grader is responsible for evaluating student work and providing feedback to help them progress in their studies. At work I grade classwork submissions, checking for accuracy and completeness, and help students understand the material they have covered. Through my experience I have learned to be patient, thorough, and attentive, and how to work closely with instructors to help ensure the success of each student in their studies.
(This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* I believe that this generation of teens value visual content. I believe that I can easily reach out to teens through social media apps to promote the activities YAC organizes. I have experience with promoting activities in other clubs so this experience will transfer over. I would also create posters and place them in schools and other public areas where teens frequent in order to promote YAC activities.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* I have not recently attended a meeting, but am interesting in doing so. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Zain Mustafa rec letter.pdf
1176
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
MustafaZain2022-23.pdf
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1177
www.dublinusd.org/dhs

DUBLIN HIGH SCHOOL

A GOLD RIBBON SCHOOL
8151 Village Parkway, Dublin, CA 94568 ● 925-833-3300 ● FAX 925-833-3322 To Whom It May Concern,
I am pleased to recommend Zain Mustafa to be a member of the 2023-24 Youth Advisory Committee. Zain is my current student in AP Calculus AB during the 2022-2023 school year, and has demonstrated an excellent drive and work ethic, as well as strong leadership capabilities.

I would like to emphasize some of Zain’s key attributes within this letter, namely his perseverance, curiosity, and work ethic navigating through a challenging curriculum.

Zain has a wonderful curiosity and perspective on the world and how things work. He takes the time to ponder carefully before asking questions, and the questions he asks in class and during my office hours demonstrate that he takes an active role in his education. Through our conversations during office hours this year, I gained perspective on his personality and code of ethics, and was pleased with what I saw. From the start of the year, Zain grew to be more outgoing, and to ask questions during class and office hours, and I witnessed him break out of his shell. From that experience, he has grown as a student and as a person, to be more open and vulnerable but to also take advantage of opportunities when they come his way.

Zain has both an incredible work ethic as well as a personal code of ethics and strong sense of character. He is not afraid to admit when he makes a mistake and will work hard to prevent that mistake from happening again, a character trait that is rare in many individuals. He is also not stalled in the face of obstacles or letdowns, rising to the challenge and working to overcome them or use them as learning experiences.

Zain has demonstrated excellence above other students with his excellent written and verbal communication skills, and is organized and reliable. He can work independently or as part of a team and is able to follow through to ensure that the job gets done. He accomplishes these tasks with great initiative and positive attitude.

It is with great pleasure that I recommend Zain Mustafa for admission into the Youth Advisory Committee.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Sarah York
Dublin High School
AP Calculus AB
Advanced Algebra 2
1178
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Divij
Last Name*
Muthu
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5840 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1180
City*
DUBLIN
State*
CA
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 12 1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I would like to become a member of the YAC because I feel it is a new way for me to get involved with the community and do more for the city that I love. After taking part in awesome events like Splatter, St. Patrickâ€™s Day celebrations, and summer activities at beautiful Emerald Glen park, and having access to incredible places for fun like the Wave that are constantly growing, I am greatly appreciative of everything our community has built and would like to give back however I can. Iâ€™ve been trying to help out with volunteer work for several groups. Through my time spent with fellow classmates in a high school environment, I would like to share my experiences with the cityâ€™s decision makers. The YAC would offer me a chance to voice thoughts regarding my age group in a bigger forum that could be used to benefit Dublinâ€™s youth. I am also interested in collaborating with other students to come up with an approach to solving issues, so that our plans can be inclusive of many studentsâ€™ concerns and address problems effectively. I'm excited about this opportunity to learn more about the procedures used by the city to develop policies and serve the community with new initiatives. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I enjoy collaborating with others so that we can work together towards benefiting the community. As part of the Peer Tutors program, Iâ€™ve been able to assist my fellow students with tough coursework for the past 2 years, and get an understanding of how to listen to their concerns and offer support. I have also participated in events organized by Dublin High Schoolâ€™s NHS chapter, where I was able to serve our amazing community. Iâ€™ve also worked with a partner on behalf of Science for the Bay (SFTB) to offer science instruction to students with special needs at Dougherty Elementary. Itâ€™s been a wonderful experience, as Iâ€™m always very happy to see their enthusiasm when we do experiments together. My role as the Vice President of DHSâ€™ Chemistry Club has given me familiarity with the procedures needed to help run an organization, as Iâ €™ve worked with the rest of the Board to plan out team labs, activities, and practice for the Chemistry olympiad. I've encouraged people to come forward with their unique ideas, and have been able to lead the group effectively. It's also taught me to keep myself and other members updated on key tasks and information. Overall, this work has allowed me to learn about common concerns for the cityâ€™s youth, and I feel that I can use this knowledge to help the Committee bring visibility to these issues. I try to keep myself informed about whatâ€™s going on in Dublin, and how I can take part in city events. I frequently receive messages from my Dublin Patch subscription, and keep an eye out for the latest news in my neighborhood. I have strong attention to detail, and carefully study whatever I get involved in so that I can offer valuable inputs and support.

Having practiced taekwondo since 1st grade, Iâ€™ve developed a strong sense of discipline and respect for others. Throughout everything I do, I strive to express my passion and put in my best effort. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
I feel that there are several key areas in which the YAC can support teens in Dublin. Firstly, the YAC could help to promote group events and activities focusing on physical health. For example, when DHS held a cardiovascular screening earlier in the school year, it helped to detect conditions some students might not have been aware they had. Community blood drives have also been a big success in obtaining supplies for hospitals. Some workshops teaching key skills like CPR that can save lives in vital moments could also be helpful. I myself was able to obtain a CPR certification using an online course and help from the school, and the practice has raised my awareness of when it can be used and how people can respond to various injuries or situations. Information on topics like this could give students across the district better knowledge of how to care for themselves and others. Similarly, mental health is another place where the YAC can contribute to the community. Academic anxiety is a major source of stress for teens, and I have noticed that support resources like the ARC and tutoring have helped to increase student confidence and preparedness. Thus, further access to tools like this can greatly help students in handling academic stress. Strategies to manage stress and set up daily plans for homework have also been effective, so enhancing these options would be beneficial. Finally, bullying and student relations could be another task for the YAC to approach. Working to increase awareness has been helpful in avoiding problems, but teaching ways to respond to such situations and take action to reduce this kind of behavior could help to prevent any incidents. Another recent issue that concerned me was the incident at a basketball game with a neighboring district. Taking some time to reflect on these unfortunate events could help build an understanding of the consequences of using hurtful words. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* Activities I will be involved in include the Peer Tutors program, my roles in the Chemistry club, SFTB, and NHS, as well as further volunteer work at the Shiva-Vishnu temple in Livermore. I was able to complete my Level 10 MTAC Certification for Piano this year, finishing the program. I play Badminton fairly often on weekends. Currently, I work at Dublin Central Kumon as a highlevel math assistant. Over the past year Iâ€™ve been able to strengthen my time management abilities by handling these commitments, and so I am confident that Iâ€™ll be able to set aside as much time as needed for the YAC. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* Some ways to get teens involved in such activities could be physical announcements like posters or flyers, as well as digital platforms like various social media apps. For example, Dublin Unified School District has set up accounts on Instagram and Twitter that post lots of useful information, and so I would like to explore ways to increase viewership of these platforms. The official website for the City of Dublin is also a good source, and making sure teens are aware of the resources offered could increase their positive impact. One way to do this could be placing flyers in common areas of schools to publicly display these options, and updating them for new opportunities. Additional time slots such as Gael period and Grady days (for DHS) could offer a chance to make announcements about activities as well. A great event I attended was the recent Tri-Valley Job Fair, which offered lots of great opportunities and advice for teens. Additional events like this can help students find out about volunteer work or jobs at local businesses and organizations, as well as city and teen-oriented activities. The event was wellpublicized in local news outlets and on social media like Dublin Patch, which helped to generate interest and see significant student participation. Organizing events like this for middle schoolers could introduce them to future opportunities and better prepare them for high school.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* Iâ€™ve been able to attend a couple of recent City Council meetings over Zoom on January 10 and March 7 this year. On the 10th, a celebration of the 80th anniversary of Camp Parksâ€™ opening and winners of the 2022 â€œDeck the Homesâ€ decorating contest were among the items discussed. I had read much about the contest previously, so it was exciting to see winners in unique categories like Inflatables recognized for their effort and beautiful displays. There was also an item related to maintenance services for the water slide at the Wave. I am a frequent visitor to the Wave along with my family, and I got an opportunity to go there with my grandparents when they visited from India. It was great to see how an initiative supporting a wonderful resource so close to me was approved. The March 7th meeting notably recognized the work of Chief Holmes, and how he was able to serve the city in various capacities through challenging times like the pandemic, as well as the focus on policing methods in the past few years. His achievements were inspiring, and I feel grateful that our city has such dedicated people working to keep us safe. Unfortunately, I recalled a couple occasions where emergency services were unnecessarily called to our school when fire alarms were set off improperly. We need to make sure that the time of critical personnel is utilized well, and that people are aware how even minor pranks can delay a response to a real emergency. I also remember an instance where several students thanked police officers for their service, and it was great to see this kind of community spirit.

While I was not able to attend these City Council meetings in person, I have visited the complex and am proud to see how it's coming along, with facilities being added and upgraded often. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Divij.pdf
Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
Choose File No file selected
Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1183
March 24, 2023
To Whom it May Concern:

It is my privilege to write this letter of recommendation on behalf of Divij Muthu. I have known Divij since he enrolled in the AP Language and Composition class that I teach here at Dublin High School, and over the course of this school year, I’ve had ample opportunity to see that Divij is a young person of character, intelligence, integrity, and kindness. He is truly a quality human being, and he has my highest possible recommendation.

Academically, Divij is without equal. His natural intellect is incredibly impressive; his immediate grasp of concepts that challenge other students gives him a considerable advantage in the classroom. However, unlike many other gifted students, this does not stop him from engaging with the material and with his classmates. For him, his understanding of the material and the concepts is simply a starting point. He is curious and motivated, and is unfailingly present in all of our activities and discussions. He nods in agreement and tilts his head with questions, and I am always sure that he is listening, thinking, processing. He works well in collaborative settings, and is a natural facilitator. The other students respect his engagement and his integrity, and he elevates his entire group based on his own attitude.

As I’ve already begun to talk about the qualities other than his intellect that recommend him, let me pause for a moment and simply say that among the students that I am lucky enough to teach this year, Divij is one of the best in every measurable area—not only in academics. He is kind, thoughtful, calm; he is cheerful, hardworking, and mature. I am happy to provide specific examples to support these platitudes, but at some point, the compliments really start to seem disingenuous and exaggerated—when the truth is, they aren’t even close to enough. If I were the head of a committee, or the president of a university, or an employer, and Divij was my employee, I would be thrilled. The Youth Advisory Committee will be well served by this young man; in truth, he will help the YAC community be its best.

If you give him this opportunity, I can assure you that you will be happy with your decision. Please contact me if you have any questions, or if I can give you any further information about Divij Muthu.

Sincerely,
Rebecca Briggs
AP Language & Composition Instructor
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
1184

Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Mannat
Last Name*
Nagra
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5833 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
1185
City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* Dublin High School
What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* 11th grade

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to join the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee because it allows young people like me to participate in local politics and positively impact our community. Being a part of YAC will also give me excellent leadership chances, allowing me to develop my leadership abilities and collaborate with others who share a similar outlook on our community's future. By focusing on problems that affect young people, such as mental health, education, and social justice, I hope to bring positive change to my community. YAC will also further help me develop my leadership and public speaking skills. Additionally, it can assist me in acquiring abilities like project management, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. As a member of YAC, I will also have the opportunity to learn more about the responsibilities of various political positions, how local governments work, and how policies are created and affect communities. Overall, YAC would be a great learning experience for me and give me a way to give back to my community at the same time.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* The skills that make me a strong candidate for the YAC are my ability to work well with others, which is essential, especially in a position requiring collaboration to address concerns. I also have excellent listening skills and the ability to understand multiple perspectives. This ability will help me effectively represent the problems of the youth in my community and offer various solutions to these issues. I want to be a voice for others who don't have a say so change can be implemented and positively impact my community. I also enjoy being able to help others which led me to coach an 11-year-old girls' soccer team last year, which was an outstanding leadership and personal development experience. This allowed me to improve my leadership and communication skills which are essential to being a member of YAC since you are the voice and leader for the youth of Dublin.

I'm also adaptable, so if any last-minute requests or changes need to be made, I'm willing to work and rearrange my schedule to accommodate them. As many rely on the people part of YAC to implement certain changes and meet specific deadlines for certain tasks, responsibility plays a significant role in this which is one of my strong skills aside from collaboration with others and listening skills.
(This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
The youth in Dublin are currently facing stress and pressure from school due to the high standards expected from peers and parents. This has led to negative impacts on students' mental health. Classmates and I have talked about this issue, and even though my school has tried to implement resources to help alleviate stress and reduce pressure, many students still feel enormous amounts of pressure and stress from school. Especially in today's society, high standards are put on students, especially by parents who push them a lot. This causes students to feel stressed that if they don't perform up to those expectations, they aren't good enough or they won't have a future. The YAC could address these issues by partnering up with mental health organizations which can help raise awareness of the impacts of immense pressure caused by school. Partnering with these organizations can facilitate informational meetings, workshops, and support groups. Informational meetings would cover the effects of academic stress on students' mental health and how to alleviate such effects. Hosting informational meetings can also break the stigma associated with mental health and encourage teens to take advantage of the resources offered. The YAC can advocate for more reasonable academic expectations and promote the importance of self-care and mental health awareness among students. These actions can improve the student environment, making it more encouraging and positive.
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4. What activities are you currently involved in or will be involved in during the 2023-2024 school year, and will you be able to devote time each month for YAC meetings and activities?* During the 2023-2024 school year, I will be involved in competitive soccer from August to November, and at the same time, I may be coaching a soccer team for about 3-5 days a week. I will play high school soccer for DHS from November through early February for about 4-5 days a week. Even with these commitments, I can ensure that I can set aside time for YAC. (This boxcan be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

5. How would you get other teens involved in the community, teen events, and City-sponsored activities?* To involve more teens in community events, I propose utilizing social media to spread awareness. Social media is an effective way to spread information about upcoming events because so many teenagers can access it. Additionally, collaborating with local businesses and organizations that appeal to teenagers helps broaden the reach of the information and adds extra resources for these events. Further, the school can encourage involvement and spread information on community activities by including them in morning announcements, weekly newsletters, school newspapers, or thru flyers. Teens' participation and support of the community can be increased by encouraging them to talk about and share information about these events with their peers. Another successful strategy for encouraging teen involvement is offering incentives, such as the chance to meet new people, volunteer hours, or free food. We can involve more teenagers in community activities and create a better sense of unity and support in the community by taking advantage of these effective strategies. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

6. Have you recently attended a YAC or other Dublin Commission or City Council meeting? If yes, what was the meeting date and what was the outcome of the item(s) you were interested in?* No.
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8. A formal interview process for selected applicants may take place.

Upload Letter of Recommendation (required).*
Mannat Nagra Letter of Recommendation.pdf
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Upload 2nd Letter of Recommendation (optional)
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Application materials must be submitted via this online application form. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24, 2023. Applications or letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the deadline. 1188
March 17, 2023
To Whom It May Concern:

It is with my sincerest pleasure that I am writing in recommendation of Mannat Nagra as a potential candidate for the Dublin Youth Advisory Committee. I have the honor of being Mannat’s English teacher in her sophomore English class (2022-2023), and I am pleased to inform you that the qualities she has shown in my class speak to her ability to make positive contributions to her future endeavors in your committee, as well as in our society as a whole.

Mannat stands out to me distinctly, as she is very respectful, shares great ideas and contributes to the rapport of the class, and has a great attitude. She always arrives to class with a positive spirit and a constant curiosity to learn. Her contributions to our class are thoughtful and demonstrate her capabilities as a complex thinker. Each day, as we launch into the day’s activities, Mannat demonstrates her eagerness through her willingness to engage closely with the texts and discussion topics we address in class. In her writing, Mannat crafts thoughtful, creative literary analysis, and she organizes her claims well. Her observations are convincing and supported by ample, well-chosen textual evidence. An example of Mannat’s strength as a writer comes in the form of her final essay based on Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451, in which students were asked to share one of Bradbury’s warnings about the future state of our society and whether the warning is still relevant. Mannat constructs the argument that Bradbury cautions against the overuse of technology, claiming that it disrupts authentic human connections. Mannat makes several strong claims, and she draws effective textual evidence showcasing how this issue plays out within the story of Fahrenheit 451, particularly regarding the relationship between the main www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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protagonist and his distant wife. Mannat’s detailed observations are astute and a testament to her high level of analytical thinking, as well as her own awareness of societal issues and her aspirations to address concerns such as the ills of technology overuse. Additionally, Mannat wrote a well-researched Op-Ed Article, in which students were asked to write about a recent cause for which they would like to raise awareness and advocacy for change. Through her Op-Ed Article, Mannat raised awareness about the injustice of the Uyghur-detainee work camps in China. Mannat makes numerous well-researched claims, and her writing is wise and infused with concern. Her tone is genuine and impassioned, leading me to the impression that she cares deeply about social issues and wants to make positive change in not only our community, but in societies beyond our own country, as well. In conclusion, Mannat would be an ideal leader and contributor to your committee. In addition to her strong academic strengths, she works particularly well with her peers in group assignments, as well as discussions. She is a sweet, considerate and thoughtful team player. She listens to her peers attentively, while also contributing her own opinions in a humble manner. With her strong academic and interpersonal skills, Mannat is a wonderful candidate for your Youth Advisory Committee. Please do not hesitate to accept her!
Sincerely,
Carmen Chan
Dublin High School English Teacher
www.dublinusd.org/dhs
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Application Submittal
Your completed application must be submitted via this online form. Application submittals must include the following items:

Questions
Please direct questions to Liz Eilliott, Recreation Supervisor, at 925-833-6645 or email First Name*
Neha
Last Name*
Nagra
Street Address*
Print
Youth Advisory Committee Application 2023-2024 term - Submission #5851 Date Submitted: 3/24/2023
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City*
Dublin
State*
California
Zip*
94568
Email Address*
Phone Number*
What school will you attend in the 2023-2024 school year?* I will be attending Fallon Middle School in the 2023-2024 school year.

What grade will you be in during the 2023-2024 school year?* I will be in 8th grade in the 2023-2024 school year.

1. Why do you want to become a member of the City of Dublin Youth Advisory Committee (YAC)?* I want to join the Youth Advisory Council because I want the opportunity to leave a lasting impact within my community and make a positive difference. I think having a safe and inviting city is crucial, and I am confident that I can bring change forward and assist the local community. Dublin is a fantastic city, and I can do a lot to make it even better. I have always been passionate about assisting others and ensuring everyone feels safe and their voices are heard. I would love to pursue this desire throughout the rest of my academic school years up until 12th grade. Serving the community in this way is a significant step toward fostering change for our community, and I would be thrilled to be a part of it. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)

2. What skills do you possess that would make you a strong candidate for the YAC?* I'm very responsible, inspiring, and resourceful, making me an excellent candidate for the Youth Advisory Council. I think having all of these characteristics is crucial if you want to lead. Another thing is that I'm able to build solid relationships with others and communicate well. Since I genuinely care about my community, I am confident that I possess all these qualities and can help my community change for the better. To put it more precisely, each of these traits helps improve Dublin since each of them is necessary for supporting my community. To implement change, one must be on top of their game. This means that anytime an issue arises, one must always be prepared to find a solution. I can tell you that I am capable of doing this. I've always had incredible leadership abilities, which I developed during middle school while participating in leadership development programs.

I'm applying for student council for the following year and another leadership council for my eighth-grade year which will also allow me to strengthen those skills further.
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3. What do you believe are issues teens in Dublin are currently dealing with, and how do you think YAC could address these issues?*
Issues that I think teens in Dublin are struggling with currently would be school and social pressure. As a student myself, I also deal with the immense pressure and standards put on me, whether it's my parents or peers. From my perspective and others I have talked to, we feel that all Dublin schools are full of a lot of pressure, mainly due to peer pressure. Since the schools here are very competitive, it causes other students to feel pressured that if they aren't at a certain level like their peers, they are not as bright as them, which causes them to lose self-confidence and put immense pressure on themselves. School is stressful, especially with today's society's expectations, colleges, parents, and peers. Social pressure causes teens to put more pressure on themselves to meet the expected expectations, leading to loss of confidence, stress, anxiety, burnout, and overall a negative impact on their mental health. The Dublin youth advisory council can address these issues by pushing for more mental health resources like counselors, support groups, mental health awareness outreach, and even events that help students alleviate the stress that they may be feeling. YAC can also encourage students to take advantage of these resources since many students don't because they think that others may judge them if they take advantage of them. (This box can be expanded by expanding the lower right hand corner of this box. This option may not be available for the Internet Explorer browser.)
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Dublin City CouncilJune 6, 2023

Dublin City Council
June 6, 2023