Is NYLF a scam?

I've seen some posts about the National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF) being a scam. I wanted to get some input from people who have actually attended the programs. Have any of you attended one of their programs, and would you say it's legit or a scam?

I wouldn't necessarily call NYLF a scam, but it's important to understand that its programs can be costly and are not very selective. While you might have a valuable educational experience at an NYLF program, attending such a program won't heavily impact your college application or make you stand out among applicants, as admissions officers typically place a higher value on selective programs.

That said, your experience at an NYLF program could still be beneficial in terms of personal growth, finding your interests, and building connections with like-minded students. If you're considering attending an NYLF program, try to assess whether the program aligns with your interests and provides you with a meaningful opportunity for growth beyond what you could pursue independently. That thought process will help you determine whether the cost is worth it in your particular situation.

If you're looking for alternatives, consider free or low-cost selective programs related to medicine, like the ones you can find on CollegeVine's blog (https://blog.collegevine.com/medical-internships-for-high-school-students/), as these can contribute more positively to your college application. Remember that the most important aspect of any extracurricular activity is demonstrating passion and engagement in your chosen field, rather than just checking a box.