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"This is one of the best experiences to take me to the next level in life, but it is one of the worst things I have been through," he said, his smooth hands pulling on state-issued jeans.

For the second time in his young life, Banks decided it was time to change.

In prison, he participated in a seven-week program aimed at preparing inmates for life outside the fence. He won a coveted spot in a post-release program at the Patrick Allison House, a transitional housing center in Baltimore City that will help him reach that "next level" of self-sufficiency.

As he checked out of the prison April 24, the guard who opened the last door wished him luck. Six prisoners in the yard wished him well and shook his hand, including Banks' cousin, Terry Paige, also serving time for drug offenses.

Paige, a small man with a shiny gold front tooth, reached up to hug his tall, lanky cousin, but admonished him to stay clean.

Copyright © 2003 University of Maryland Philip Merrill College of Journalism