For an interested high school student, diving into the world of engineering via pre-college programs before setting foot in college can set you apart from your peers. Such programs offer a unique perspective on the practical aspect of what it means to be an engineer and how to navigate the complex, problem-solving world that you can build a career in. One such pre-college program is the National Youth Leadership Forum for Engineering (NYLF). In this blog, we cover all that you need to know about NYLF! 

What is the National Youth Leadership Forum for Engineering?

The National Youth Leadership Forum for Engineering is an eight-day residential program designed for high school students with a keen interest in engineering. Its purpose is multifaceted: to provide a solid introduction to engineering, to facilitate a hands-on experience with cutting-edge engineering challenges, and to develop critical leadership and problem-solving skills. 

At NYLF Engineering, you'll be introduced to topics such as artificial intelligence, neural networks, and CAD rocket mechanical engineering, among others, all while working alongside peers who share your passion and ambition. The program aims to leave you with a clear vision of your future career path in engineering​​​​.

Is NYLF prestigious?

Participating in NYLF Engineering can enrich your knowledge and skills, if not much else. The program does not have very strict entry criteria and is not very selective – you can nominate yourself for the program. However, the hands-on experience and industry exposure you get, along with the networking opportunities with peers and professionals help provide a useful foundation for your future academic and career pursuits​​. Overall we would not rate this as prestigious in and of itself, but it can be helpful as an addition to your existing profile.

Who is eligible for NYLF?

To be eligible for NYLF Engineering, you must simply be:

• A high school student in grades 9-11 during the 2023-2024 academic year​​.

• Interested in pursuing careers in engineering.

• Able to attend the residential program at one of the NYLF partner locations (University of Michigan, Georgia Tech, UC Berkeley Clark Kerr Campus, or Olin College of Engineering) for the eight days of the course.

How does the application process work?

To apply for NYLF Engineering, you need to either be nominated or nominate yourself. This involves providing some basic information about you and your school, and then making a deposit for the program of your choice. Although being nominated highlights your potential, it is not a prerequisite for application. Regardless of which method you opt for, you’ll have to enroll on the website here.

The options for the program locations, with their respective dates and tuition costs, are as follows:

Note that scholarships as well as fundraising methods are available.

How is NYLF structured?

The NYLF Engineering program is structured to offer a comprehensive understanding of engineering principles, practical experience, and insights into the profession's future. This is achieved through the following key components:

• Capstone Impact Challenge: The Capstone Impact Challenge is a cornerstone project that tasks you with addressing some of the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations. You will have to apply your problem-solving skills and creativity to devise innovative solutions to pressing global issues. In a team, you will work on real-world problems, such as improving access to clean water in underdeveloped countries, utilizing various technologies like ArcGIS for planning, ideating, and prototyping solutions. This culminates in a presentation where the best solutions are celebrated​​.

• Speaking engagements: A significant part of the NYLF Engineering experience includes speaking engagements from academic faculty and professionals leading various engineering disciplines. These events offer a unique opportunity to hear from and engage with industry leaders, gaining insight into recent innovations and the keys to successful careers in engineering. Past speakers have come from a wide range of prestigious organizations and companies, offering a broad perspective on the engineering landscape​​.

• Immersive engineering workshops: These workshops are tailored to explore cutting-edge topics within engineering, such as artificial intelligence and neural networks, helicopter electronics, and CAD rocket mechanical engineering. Developed by experts in the field, including those with backgrounds from prestigious institutions like MIT, these workshops provide hands-on learning experiences. 

• Site visits: Another integral component of the NYLF Engineering program is the site visits, which allow you to experience firsthand the realities of the engineering profession. You get the opportunity to tour campuses and engage in culturally enriching off-site excursions. These visits are useful in helping you understand the potential paths your future career might take​​.

What you need to know to get accepted

To increase your chances of being accepted into NYLF Engineering, consider these tips:

1. Demonstrate your interest in engineering: Participate in related extracurricular activities or personal projects.

2. Showcase leadership skills: Highlight instances where you've led a team or project, particularly in a STEM context.

3. Maintain strong academic records: A solid GPA, especially in math and science courses, can strengthen your application.

4. Seek recommendations: Letters from teachers or mentors who can vouch for your potential in engineering and leadership can be very persuasive.

5. Display your problem-solving skills: Be ready to discuss instances where you've had to solve complex problems, ideally related to engineering challenges.

6. Express your unique perspective: Highlight what makes you different from other applicants and how your unique viewpoint would contribute to the learning of your wider batch.

In summary, the National Youth Leadership Forum for Engineering can be a helpful opportunity to explore the field of engineering, develop essential skills, and begin forging a path to your future career. While it is quite expensive at over $4000 for an eight day session, it can still be useful to further establish your profile and your dedication to engineering.

If you’re looking to build unique projects in the field of AI/ML, consider applying to Veritas AI! 

Veritas AI was founded by Harvard graduate students, and through the programs, you get a chance to learn the fundamentals of AI and computer science while collaborating on real-world projects. You can also work 1-1 with mentors from universities like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and more to create unique, personalized projects. In the past year, we had over 1000 students learn data science and AI with us. You can apply here!