I decided to participate in the YCTP program because my older siblings had participated. I knew it would be an educational experience based on their stories, and I was interested in trying to learn a new “language”. Training for the HSCC was certainly strenuous. Luckily, my teammates and I got along very well, and worked well together. We were able to play off of our strengths, which proved to be the best method for achieving the success that we did. There were some long nights, but I could tell that each of us liked what we were doing, so we were still able to enjoy ourselves in the process.
The week of the competition was extremely exciting. We were prepared, and we knew that there was no better way to truly test our skills than to compare it to other teams’. I would tell other students to sign up for BDPA as soon as they are eligible. I would advise them to work very hard and to attend the class every single Saturday. They should listen to the instructors and take their advice, because they know what they’re talking about. But, most of all…have fun! Meet new people who are interested in the same things you are; it’s a wonderful experience.