Hey guys! I got an invitation to the National Youth Leadership Forum for Engineering. Is it a legit experience, and do colleges value it? Any insights would be appreciated!
Hey! The National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF) for Engineering is a legitimate program that provides students with exposure to the field of engineering through workshops, seminars, and hands-on activities. That being said, while it can be a valuable experience for personal growth and exploring your interest in engineering, it won't have a significant impact on your college application since it's a paid program and not particularly selective.
Admissions officers generally prioritize applicants' involvement in extracurricular activities that demonstrate exceptional achievement, leadership, or community engagement. Since NYLF is often seen as more of a "pay-to-play" program, its weight in the admissions process may be limited when compared to other prestigious, competitive, or more selective programs.
That said, if you're genuinely interested in the field of engineering and believe that the experience would be personally fulfilling, it could still be worth attending. Just keep in mind that it won't be a game-changer for your college application, and it would be wise to also engage in other engineering-related activities that showcase your passion and involvement in a more compelling way, such as participating in engineering clubs, working on independent projects, or volunteering in community outreach programs related to engineering.
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