<p>Today I got a thing in the mail. According to a letter I got I was "selected to represent your [my] school at the 2012 National Student Leadership Conference" this summer.</p>
<p>Some of the programs look interesting, but they're really expensive. Like ~$2500 for a ten day session. </p>
<p>I can't help but wonder if my name was just on a mass mailing list. I was just wondering if this program was something legitimate and not a scam. What do you guys think?</p>
<p>I threw it away. I mean, i think it’s sent to kids with good scores, but i doubt anyone at my school “nominated” me, or that it really counts. Plus it’s not worth it for me to pay. If you can afford it, then go ahead. I think it’s legitimate, but not selective</p>
<p>Long answer: It’s not a scam, because the program exists. But it’s just a money-making program and is not selective at all. It will not help in college admissions.</p>
<p>I got a full scholarship and went to the U.S. Policy & Politics program last year. It was a really great experience for me. I met a lot of great people, saw D.C., and participated in election and Congress simulations.</p>
<p>Don’t do something in the summer just to boost admissions chances; most programs won’t help you anyway. But, if you get to March/April and don’t have summer plans yet, take a look into NSLC if you like. I enjoyed it.</p>