On February 24, 2025, I traveled to San Francisco to speak at the Bayview Credit Recovery Program, a specialized campus that supports students who are working hard to get back on track academically. Before the event, I visited House of Nanking, a well-known restaurant in the city. Spending a short time in the neighborhood offered a moment to reflect on how important these programs are for students who often face unique pressures.
During the workshop, we discussed how substance-use risks affect teens who are juggling academic challenges, social stress, and personal responsibilities. Many students in credit recovery programs feel pressure to move quickly, yet they often face environments where nicotine, alcohol, or pills appear easily accessible. Because of this, we focused on how the adolescent brain responds to quick rewards and why healthy decision-making requires a short pause, even in stressful moments.
Students also learned how marketing influences their choices. Nicotine advertisers use bold colors and simple phrases to gain attention. These tactics can make harmful products appear less risky. To support this discussion, I shared national research on teen substance use from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/substance-use/index.htm
The students at Bayview showed strong engagement. Several asked thoughtful questions about stress, peer pressure, and how to avoid slipping into substance use while trying to improve their academic standing. Their willingness to participate showed a deep desire to make healthier decisions and support one another.
A fun fact about the area: San Francisco’s Chinatown, just steps from the workshop site, is the oldest Chinatown in North America and remains one of the city’s most visited cultural districts.
To bring this research-based, engaging youth drug prevention program to your school or community, please visit: https://raylozano.com/contact/.