June 27 was National HIV Testing Day, sponsored by the National Association of People With AIDS (NAPWA). Who knew? None of the New Yorkers POZ found strolling through Washington Square Park that sunny afternoon. But with three out of five having faced the music at least once, this very random sample is savvier than the American average -- only 30 percent have been tested.

Name: Goncalo
Age: 26
Have you been tested?
Yes.
When were you last tested for HIV?
Eight months ago. I try to test myself for HIV every six months.
How has HIV affected your life?
It’s made me a little more paranoid.

Name: Malena
Age: 21
Have you been tested for HIV?
Yes.
When were you last tested?
A year ago.
How has HIV affected your life?
Two of my uncles died from it.

Name: Mitch
Age: 38
Have you been tested?
No.
Do you think you are at risk?
Well, you hear about it on the news, but I generally don’t associate with people using needles, and as far as the gay lifestyle, that’s not my main circle of friends.

Name: Jamie
Age: 17
Have you been tested for HIV?
Yes.
When were you last tested?
Last month.
How has HIV affected your life?
One of my best friends, Rob, just passed away from HIV on Sunday.

Name: Kaitlin
Age: 16
Have you been tested?
No.
What would you do to motivate more people to get tested?
I would go out on the streets and make signs and speeches so people would be aware of what a detriment HIV could be in your life.