In HEHD 8000 - Theories of Youth Development: An Applied Perspective, the largest assignment was a Community Youth Development Plan. I believe it was the best start to my time in the Youth Development Leadership Master's Program. This assignment made me really look at my community and assess what my participants could be dealing with, or the context within which they grew up. I was able to use this data in multiple personal endeavors (applications to leadership programs) and also to help shape what issues mean the most to me. I have been able to use the information in the advocacy part of my job, while speaking to legislative officials regarding the issues facing people with arthritis.