Question: What do you know about the National Young Scholars Program? My 4th grader daughter was nominated by her teacher and was "selected" to attend the NYSP.  I do not know much about this program and its legitimacy.  I have to admit the whole packet is VERY flattering, until you see that it costs over $1800 for a week's worth of joining the program and being forever branded as a "young scholar".  My child has passed her GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) test and has always been on top of her class.  She is 9 and she is wanting so badly to find kids her age who shares the same interests as her and who find it okay to be "nerdy".\n\nAs a parent, I would love for my child to attend programs that will help her explore who and what she really wants to become.  Or maybe even improve some of her skills.  I just worry that this will be like a modeling firm telling me how great my kid is and her potentials of making it to the "business" just so they can get me to enroll her to their modeling school that costs an arm and a leg.

Answer: Well, I myself am slightly older then your daughter, and I have never been invited to that particular conference. I have however taken part in others that are similar, for high school teens. \n\nPersonally, I will always remember the convention. I had an amazing time. I too was skeptical when I first learned that it would be $2800 for 5 days in Washington DC, but after I went, it was worth every penny. I met a lot of people who had similar interests as myself, and I also learned a Lot...as mine was a seminar type leadership conference. \n\nNow, don't let it sound like I'm trying to push you to send your daughter, there are some things to keep in mind. First and foremost, your daughter will be without you for the week that shes there. Now, if your daughter is very independent, and doesn't mind being separated with you for that period of time, then thats not a problem. You should also keep in mind the financial cost of it. The $1800 that your paying does not pay for transport to and from the location. You will also need to send some money with your daughter to cover any emergency costs, although this particular program is fairly good. Most programs wont cover all the food costs, especially if your on a trip.\n\nAll in all, I think that if your daughter goes, she will have a LOT of fun, maybe learn a few new things, and probably make friends that she will hold on to for years to come. Just make sure you weigh all the sides before you make a choice. Ill remind you that there are LOTS more conventions when she gets older, especially if she is as bright as you say she is. If you don't feel comfortable sending her now, then hold off for a few more years, and send her to another program when she hits middle school, or high school.\n\nBest of luck with the decision, \nand please, feel free to contact me if you have any questions,\npyro_briar@yahoo.com
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