As an exchange student from Australia attending high school in Graham, Texas, I have noticed key differences when it comes to vaping in schools. In Australia, vaping is less prevalent due to strict regulations that make it illegal to sell nicotine-based vapes without a prescription. However, it is still a rising concern. A study by the University of Sydney found that about 25% of students aged 14-17 in New South Wales have tried vaping, with 10% having vaped in the past 30 days. These statistics highlight that, despite the strict laws, vaping is becoming a growing issue in Australian schools. In contrast, vaping appears more widespread in Texas. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, 11.2% of high school students in Texas have used e-cigarettes in the last 30 days. Schools like Graham High School face challenges managing this issue, despite having anti-vaping policies in place. Both countries are struggling with similar concerns regarding the health risks posed by vaping, but Australia’s stricter laws make it more difficult for teens to access these products compared to the United States, where they are more readily available.
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Vaping in Australia Compared to Texas
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About the Contributor
Sonya Clarke, Contributor
Sonya Clarke is 15 years old turning 16 on October 29th and she is an exchange student from Sydney, Australia. She will be studying abroad in Texas for 5 months. This daunting yet exhilarating decision stems from her joy of discovering new places, meeting new faces, and embracing different cultures. Whilst in the U.S she hopes to challenge her perspective of the world and to be part of others’ lives, if only briefly. During her time here she will be participating in cross country and golf. Sonya has been running track and cross country for 4 years and has an ardent enthusiasm for the sport predominantly because of the camaraderie that comes with it, whereas she just took up golf 1 year ago only engaging in casual rounds with her dad. Back in Sydney she contributes to a significant amount of volunteer work at her church, sewing clothing for the underprivileged, and participating in a rehabilitation program called “WIRES”, that nurses and provides shelter for injured wildlife. Throughout the years she has looked after various birds, ducks, turtles, and lizards, and she is in preparations of undergoing her wildlife training course that permits her to look after koalas, kangaroos and wallabies, and possums. “You never know what someone has been through, or what they’re going through today. Be kind”. This quote inspires Sonya constantly to continue doing volunteer work and to show compassion for others. Other hobbies of hers include sewing, shopping, going to the beach and eating acai, and listening to music specifically to the artist Gracie Abrams. At this stage she is uncertain about her future aspirations and what path she wants to pursue, but she's inclined towards a career that involves helping others.