When I was little I said meat was my favorite vegetable. I used to eat all the pepperonis off the pizza first, because they were my favorite part. This is all very ironic considering my current vegan diet, and how I managed to turn my entire family plant-based almost overnight. I decided to become vegan after reading a very persuasive book about the health benefits, and realizing the environmental consequences of consuming meat and dairy products were not worth it. Almost two years ago I read the book How Not To Die by Michael Greger. I was looking to improve my health and athletic ability, and that book was suggested on my pinterest feed. Looking back it feels like fate, because I had no idea the book was advocating a plant-based diet. After reading all three hundred and fifty two pages in about four days, it didn't take long for me to start avoiding animal products. My parents noticed how enraptured I was with the book, so they read it also. After that there was no going back. It's not possible to unlearn the facts. My family decided plant-based was better for their health, the environment, and of course the animals-which we all really care about. Knowing what I do, it's disturbing to me how normalized it is to consume animal products. Living in Texas *the home of barbeque* has been one of the biggest struggles, but not because I can't find vegan options-its because so many people are confused and/or judgemental of my diet. I would love to educate more people on why vegans are vegan. I believe that if more people were willing to listen to the facts they would be transformed just as I was. I have been working on educating people in my own high school about why I am vegan. I let them try my food such as dal bhat, and quinoa salads. Most of my close friends were curious when I made this sudden change, and I am happy to tell them why. My mom is currently working on getting plant-based culinary certified, and making food for people who don't know how to. That is something I am interested in pursuing during my college experience. I think it is very important for people to try GOOD vegan food, so they know it's not all just lettuce. Although my younger self might be disappointed that I live in a world without bacon, I think she would understand that it's better for her and the animals she loves so much. Veganism is not as bland as it sounds, and when you understand the positive impact it has, your life feels so much richer. I hope that when I go to college I will be able to spread the word to more people about my vegan diet, and save even more people and animals.