When I went to my freshman orientation, I heard about the YES Academy and it instantly caught my eye. It has been the greatest thing I’ve done in high school. I met some amazing people that I can consider to be family now. We have learned so much together and grown too. Being around the same people for three years allowed me to be more confident when I present and to ask for any help when I don’t understand what’s going on in class. Some of my closest friends are the reason why I stay motivated to do well. We got to go to many places from college campuses to El Capitan to camp overnight. It has definitely made my high school experience much more memorable and I would encourage everyone to join. Even if you don’t want to be a teacher when you grow up, you will enjoy it and learn much more than just education.