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Central Texas High School Senior Day
By: Kathryn E. Boatman

     On May 9, 2012, the Texas Young Lawyers Association entertained close to 100 students and chaperones at Central Texas High School Senior Day at Baylor University School of Law.  The 2011-12 president of TYLA, Natalie Cobb Koehler, introduced the high school students to the program, which addressed issues facing the high school seniors.

     First, the students watched and discussed the Unconscious Truth, a multi-media program addressing the medical and legal risks of binge drinking and educating students and parents on the signs of alcohol poisoning.  The program begins with a video inspired by actual events. It follows “Hannah” who lives at the home and is throwing a party for her friends, including her best friend, “Shelby.” The party continues with Shelby’s goal of consuming numerous shots in just a short amount of time. Soon after, Shelby begins showing the signs of alcohol poisoning, but her friends just tell her she will “feel better now” after she throws up and to “sleep it off.” The video continues with the physical effects of the alcohol on Shelby and is followed by the arrest of Hannah and her father.  The surprising ending always provokes many discussions regarding the signs of alcohol poisoning, the duties, if any, of the drinker’s friends, and the potential criminal and civil consequences of everyone involved. This time was no different, as the high school students asked questions and debated the issues presented in the program. 

     Then the students watched Vote America, which presents a history of voting rights in the United States.  Meanwhile, a voter registrar was present, and a number of students were registered to vote, most for the first time.  The students were also presented with Your Rights on Campus, were shown You’re Hired Now What, and R U Safe, which educates students about online safety and the tools to keep themselves safe on the internet.  The response to Central Texas Senior Day was very positive, and we hope to host a similar program next year.