On April 21, 2025, I traveled to Arizona to lead a vaping information workshop at Mesa Ridge Middle School. The session focused on how nicotine products affect the adolescent brain and why flavored vapes are particularly appealing to teens. After the workshop, one of the students handed me this drawing as a thank-you. These gestures remind me how deeply students engage when information is delivered in a relatable and respectful way.
During the presentation, students learned how vaping alters brain development. We talked about dopamine, cravings, and the way nicotine changes motivation patterns. Because many teens see vapes as harmless, we explored how flavors, bright packaging, and social media trends influence their choices. One student said, “I didn’t know vapes could mess with your brain that fast.” Comments like this show how important it is to bring science into the conversation.
We also reviewed common misconceptions, such as the idea that “nicotine-free vapes” are safe. Many products labeled that way still contain chemicals that irritate the lungs or create dependency patterns. The session included a short discussion on how parents often ask for guidance on these topics. I shared tools schools can use to support family conversations at home.
To deepen the learning, I provided national research from the Truth Initiative, an organization known for youth-focused nicotine education. Their data offers helpful insights into how vaping impacts teens:
https://truthinitiative.org/research-resources
The students at Mesa Ridge showed great interest. Several stayed afterward to ask questions about stress, peer pressure, and how to talk to friends who might be experimenting with substances.
A fun fact about the area: Mesa Ridge sits near the edge of Arizona’s desert trail system, where many local families enjoy weekend hikes.
To bring this engaging and science-based prevention program to your school or organization, please visit: https://raylozano.com/contact/.