Hi! My name is Stephanie, and I am a 17-year-old Nigerian passionate about neuroscience and engineering technology. I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) program in Zimbabwe in 2023 and the Yale Model United Nations (YMUN) conference at Yale University in January 2024.

What is YYAS?

The Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) is a free, intensive, week-long academic and leadership enrichment program for high-achieving high school students aged 14–18 across Africa who aspire to pursue higher education. The program offers college fairs, college prep workshops, and guidance on social impact projects. The seminars are led by Yale faculty and mentorship sessions with university students. Additionally, YYAS provides resources on financial aid and standardized testing. The program empowers students to explore their academic potential, address challenges in their communities, and prepare for future opportunities.

What is YMUN?

The Yale Model United Nations (YMUN) is an annual conference hosted by Yale University that brings together high school students from around the world to simulate the workings of the United Nations. Participants represent countries in various committees, engaging in debates, diplomacy, and resolution drafting on global issues. The conference also features guest speakers, workshops, and cultural events designed to inspire young leaders to effect global change.

My YYAS Journey

When I applied to YYAS, there were two options: an online program and a residential program held in Zimbabwe. I chose the residential program. While attendance for both options was free, I had to pay for my flight to Zimbabwe. However, all other expenses, including housing, meals, and academic materials, were provided at no cost.

YYAS Application Process

I first heard about YYAS from an announcement made by my school principal. After researching the program to understand its requirements and ensure my eligibility, I decided to apply. The application process was straightforward, with no application fee. I just had to submit the online application. To apply, I had to meet the following criteria:

• Age: Applicants must be between 14 and 18 years old.

• English Proficiency: Applicants must be able to participate in an academic curriculum conducted in English.

• Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of an African country. Refugees living in African countries are also eligible.

• School Location: Applicants must currently attend school in an African country.

• Grade Level: Applicants must be current 10th or 11th-grade students.

Required Documents:

• A completed application form

• A 500-word essay

• Responses to two short essay prompts

• An official high school transcript

• A letter of recommendation

My Stats

When I applied, I had a perfect GPA of 4.0/4.0. I also submitted some of my extracurricular activities, such as:

• Tenor saxophone player in the school orchestra

• Secretary and student tutor of the JETS Club

• President of the Robotics Club

• Volunteer with my church’s medical outreach team

Tips for Applying

• Spend time on introspective thinking before writing your essays. This allows you to infuse personality into your application and let the admissions officer feel your essence.

• Plan ahead and give yourself ample time to write.

• Reach out to YYAS alumni for advice.

• Gather materials like transcripts and letters of recommendation well in advance.

My YYAS Experience

On day 1, participants from various African countries arrived at the host school, St. George's College, in Harare. There were about 48 students from 20 countries. As I arrived, I was welcomed warmly by YYAS staff and student mentors. The check-in involved receiving a schedule, dorm assignments, and materials for the program. The evening was spent meeting fellow participants during fun icebreaker games to ease everyone into the week.

There were interactive seminars the following days led by Yale faculty or YYAS instructors. The topics ranged from leadership development to global challenges and African innovation. I participated in workshops that focused on college preparation, such as essay writing, understanding financial aid, and acing standardized tests.

There were also project-based learning sessions known as Design4Impact (D4I). I collaborated with others to develop solutions to real-world societal problems. We identified a challenge, brainstormed solutions, and presented ideas at the end of the week.

One of the key opportunities was networking. I got to meet professionals, college counselors, and guest speakers from various industries, as well as students from the host school.

Throughout the week, there was family time, which refers to small group sessions with participants and a mentor who guided and supported me throughout the week.

Attending YYAS was an eye-opening and fun experience. I became part of a community of highly motivated peers and formed lifelong friendships. Some of my favorite moments included the icebreaker session when everyone arrived, cultural night at the end of the program, family time, and bonding with the girls in my dorm.

YYAS taught me the importance of working toward my career goals early and motivated me to pursue them. I gained valuable knowledge about college admissions and African history (through group sessions led by a Yale undergraduate) and developed my social skills exponentially.

The nurturing and supportive community was another highlight. Everyone was incredibly helpful, and the program made me realize that I don’t have to wait until adulthood to chase my dreams.

YYAS also fueled my passion for social impact. After the program, I co-founded an NGO called AfroLink with Abdellah Elakadi and a few other peers.

My YMUN Journey

How I Found YMUN

I discovered YMUN through a friend from YYAS who shares an interest in political science and international relations. We had a delegation comprising friends we made at YYAS. The application process was online and required an application fee, but we received financial aid that covered airfare and accommodation. The YMUN took place on Yale's campus.

YMUN Experience Highlights

YMUN was a thrilling experience for several reasons:

1. It marked my first time traveling alone.

2. I connected with people from different countries, broadening my cultural awareness.

3. I became more informed about global challenges.

Committee Work

I represented a country in the ASEAN committee (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), where we addressed issues like war and environmental challenges. As a delegate, I had to speak up to ensure my country’s needs and voice were heard, which pushed me out of my comfort zone. This experience sharpened my public speaking, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills.

Reflections

Both programs encouraged me to aim higher when applying to colleges and helped me relate better to the people around me. My biggest achievements so far include co-founding AfroLink, which helped me become a Civics Unplugged fellow.

Most Valuable Lessons

1. Just ask—no one will know what you want until you say it.

2. Don’t be afraid to reach out to others who have participated in programs you’re applying to.

3. It’s never too late to pursue your dreams.