Substance abuse affects every single person living in the United States today. It is so common that we all know someone who has had their life destroyed by Substance Use Disorder. For me, it's the reason I don't know my grandfather. It's the reason why my grandmother only nearly escaped death in a car crash caused by her heavy tranquilizer use. It's the reason my uncle can no longer see his children. I have seen I feel the need to educate myself on this disorder because it is so prominent in my family. However, I have realized that it isn't enough to educate yourself if nothing is done for the people around you. I am a firm believer in giving people second chances because I have seen the human capability for redemption. People mess up. This does not mean they can not be given another chance. The most effective way to educate others about a topic such as Substance Use Disorder is to educate the people who suffer from the condition and those closest to them, and that is what I plan to do. At the root of it, Substance Use Disorder is a psychiatric condition whose treatment usually displays a lot of ups and downs that require patience and forgiveness. However, patience and forgiveness are difficult to give unless you understand what your loved one is going through. On top of this, the general public also needs to be educated on substance abuse disorders. Education on obvious dangers is generally present, where schools have large assemblies in which they tell students to avoid drug use. However, school systems should follow up with continued education about dealing with substance abuse and the dangers of seemingly less harmless substances such as opioids. Social workers, volunteers, medical workers, and others are on the front lines of this crisis facing the world. Becoming a social worker specializing in substance abuse would allow me to work directly with people suffering from Substance Use Disorder just as I have in my own life. I plan to major in social work and spend time volunteering and working with people from all different backgrounds. I plan to use my degree and experience to help people who struggle with substances and help them get their lives back on track, whatever that looks like. On top of that, I would like to work with recovering addicts to help spread awareness from sufferers themselves. The most valuable education comes from people who have lived the experiences themselves.