When I was 17 years old, I began looking into options to practice safe sex. I was in my first long-term, serious relationship and I wanted to take the next step towards physical intimacy. I asked my gynecologist at the time if she could prescribe me birth control. She said she would not be able to write me a prescription without informing my parents, whom I knew would not approve. I went to Planned Parenthood instead. Planned Parenthood went out of their way to arrange a consultation at a time that worked for me, outside of normal business hours so that I could meet them after school. They were so welcoming and supportive and I felt much more comfortable in their office than I ever had with my gynecologist. They wrote me a prescription for birth control that I was able to get filled then and there. Because of the resources provided to me by Planned Parenthood, I was able to practice safe sex and not be forced into an unplanned pregnancy. I was able to go on to college, for which I received a full scholarship, and am now pursuing a graduate degree in higher education so that I can give back to students the way others were able to give back to me. I was able to chase my dreams because of Planned Parenthood giving me the opportunity to not have to choose between my future and a baby.