What are some thoughts on the NYLF Medicine Program?

Hey everyone, I've seen the program NYLF Medicine mentioned around here a few times and I'm kind of interested. Has anybody participated in it or knows someone who has? Just trying to get a sense of reviews, experiences, and insights. Is it worth the time and cost? Did it help when you applied to colleges?

The National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF) Medicine Program can certainly provide a valuable experience, exposure to the medical field, and an understanding of potential career paths. It offers interactive workshops, medical simulations, visits to medical schools and medical institutions, as well as the chance to engage with professionals in the field.

That being said, there are two critical points to keep in mind. Firstly, you should know that these programs are not extremely selective. They typically reach out to a large number of high school students, so being accepted into the program itself isn't something that will independently impress admissions officers.

Secondly, while participating can offer personal enrichment and a deeper understanding of a field you're interested in, the cost is a significant consideration. These programs can be fairly expensive, and similar experiences could potentially be found through internships, shadowing, or volunteering activities, which are typically free.

The consensus is that costly programs like the NYLF Medicine Program are not likely to significantly boost your college application, especially for competitive colleges. They look for commitment, leadership, and impact in your chosen activities, so a one-time program may not have as much weight.

For instance, rather than participating in a one-time forum such as NYLF Medicine, you might consider long-term involvement in health-related clubs at your school, volunteering at a local hospital or clinic, or arranging a regular shadowing experience with a healthcare professional. These experiences might offer similar (or even better) exposure to the medical field, show your prolonged commitment to exploring medicine, and potentially provide more meaningful experiences to write about in your college essays.

So, when considering NYLF Medicine or a similar program, be sure to weigh the personal and financial costs against the potential benefits and think about other ways you might be able to achieve similar experiences or recognition. The "worth" of it can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances and perspectives.