Thoughts on Envision National Youth Leadership Forum?

Has anyone attended the Envision National Youth Leadership Forum? What are your reviews and thoughts on the program? I'm considering participating and would love to hear some personal experiences.

I've heard a mix of opinions on the Envision National Youth Leadership Forum, so I'll outline some of the benefits and drawbacks I've gathered from others who have attended.

Pros:

1. Networking Opportunities — You'll have the chance to meet and connect with other high-achieving students from various parts of the country who share similar interests.

2. Hands-on Experience — Depending on the program focus you choose, you'll get to participate in hands-on activities or simulations that can help you better understand a career field or develop important leadership skills.

3. College Preparation — Many students say that the program helped them improve their communication and teamwork skills, which are invaluable in college and beyond.

Cons:

1. Cost — The program can be quite expensive, and financial aid may be limited. This may be a barrier for some students and families.

2. Limited Impact — Although it's a good experience, participating in Envision NYLF is generally considered a Tier 3 or Tier 4 extracurricular activity on the scale of college admissions evaluation. While it certainly won't hurt your application, it's not as impactful as exceptional or unique accomplishments.

3. Alternatives — There are many other summer programs that might be more prestigious or offer more learning opportunities at a lesser overall cost.

Ultimately, before committing to the program, it's important to assess whether it aligns with your specific interests and goals, and if you can afford the expense. Based on your personal situation, you may also want to look into other options, such as attending a pre-college summer program at a university or focusing on your own passion project to develop a more impressive extracurricular "spike". It's all about finding the right balance and deciding if the program is the best investment of your time and resources.