- Step onto campus, feel the energy as you navigate through registration lines, meet new friends, and feel your nerves transform into excitement for the week ahead
NYLF
National Security
Step into the corridors of power, mastering diplomacy, decoding intelligence briefings, and responding to national crises alongside America's next generation of leaders.
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Your Gateway to Protecting America's Future
Experience eight intensive days at University of Maryland, College Park where you'll tackle real national security challenges as a diplomat, intelligence analyst, and defense strategist. Navigate crisis simulations, participate in mock UN sessions, and develop policy recommendations that could influence national decisions.
Your days will be filled with diplomatic negotiations, intelligence briefings, and hands-on simulations alongside military officers and security professionals. Evenings offer time to connect with like-minded peers passionate about public service and build lasting friendships with future leaders.
Whether you're interested in the State Department, intelligence community, or military service, this program will sharpen your leadership skills, challenge your thinking, and prepare you for a meaningful career serving your country. This isn't just career exploration—it's discovering your role in America's story and building the skills, connections, and confidence to lead with purpose.
Grades:
9-12Duration:
8 DaysCollege Credit Hours:
2 College CreditFormat:
ResidentialStarting Price:
$4,499.00Locations, program content, and speakers are subject to change.
NYLF
The National Youth Leadership Forum (NYLF) was founded with the vision of preparing high school students for college and future careers. The very first forum, focused on National Security, set the stage for what would become a nationally recognized series of immersive learning experiences.
Envision acquired NYLF in 2007 and has continued to uphold its flagship brand and mission. Today, NYLF still inspires the nation’s most promising elementary, middle, and high school students through immersive, interactive, and hands-on learning experiences.
Why Future Leaders Choose NYLF National Security
Real-World Crisis Simulations
Take command in high-stakes scenarios as you navigate national security crises through intense immersive simulations.
Site Visits
Government site visits may include the U.S. Department of State, United States Naval Academy, Arlington National Cemetery, and foreign embassies, in addition to trips to Washington, D.C. landmarks, museums, and memorials.
Collegiate Student Experience
Explore the University of Maryland, College Park through an immersive residential experience and engaging in a true college environment.
Strategic Leadership Development
Master diplomatic negotiation, intelligence analysis, and strategic decision-making through hands-on workshops that build critical thinking and communication skills essential for national security careers.
Designed to Launch Your National Security Career
Hands-On National Security Crisis Management
Examine simulated national security crises, develop response strategies, and explore how policymakers make critical decisions through discussion, debate, and collaboration.
Certificate of Achievement
Earn a Certificate of Achievement upon successful completion of the program to elevate your resume and portfolio.
Speakers
Hear from dynamic keynote speakers, military officers, intelligence professionals, and veterans as they share their experiences and perspectives on today’s national security challenges. Students will also gain insights into careers across intelligence, diplomacy, defense, and public service.
Professional Network Development
Connect with motivated peers and start developing a network that supports your future goals.
Dates, Locations, & Tuition
Featured Extras
*Available for purchase during enrollment
Private Airport Shuttles
We’ll take care of the ride. Let us handle the airport transportation so your student can start their adventure stress-free. Our private shuttle brings them straight to the housing site and returns them to the airport at the end of the session. Safe. Supervised. Comfortable. Add the airport shuttle in your account after registration, for an additional fee.
Tuition & Travel Protection
Optional protection plan providing comprehensive coverage including trip cancellation, medical evacuation, baggage protection, and accident insurance with assistance services.
Full Refund Program
For an additional fee, WorldStrides offers protection for your investment through the Full Refund Program (FRP). Should you need to cancel your trip for any reason after the 24-hour grace period from registration, or in the event that your program is cancelled as a result of Uncontrollable Circumstances (as defined below), the FRP protects your investment by reimbursing you for 100% of the amounts you’ve paid in, minus the FRP enrollment fee, any other Non-Refundable Fees.
Sample Itinerary
* Exact itinerary will vary by session and location. Participants should reference the itinerary provided as part of their enrollment package
Day 1
- Meet your Advisor and classroom group while you participate in ice breaker activities and expectation setting.
Day 2
- Hear from a keynote speaker with firsthand experience in intelligence, global threats, and crisis response.
- Build a professional network in national security to connect with experts, gain insider insights, and open doors to future career opportunities in intelligence and policy.
- Discuss a real-life case study to analyze vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure and extract strategic lessons for national security planning and response coordination.
- Gain insights from a national security expert during a fascinating and engaging lecture on global affairs.
- Relax and begin to build strong connections with your peers through fun competitive games designed to spark friendly rivalry.
Day 3
- You will receive a firsthand view of the institutions that safeguard and shape our country through exclusive visits to some of the most influential sites in and around the nation’s capital. Past visits have included the Department of State and the United States Naval Academy (USNA).
- Kick off the session with an overview of the scenario, objectives, and roles – designed to immerse you in a high-stakes national security environment.
- Join the adventure and take part in a lively scavenger hunt – have fun exploring, solving clues, and connecting with peers.
Day 4
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- Engage in a high-intensity simulation where you'll collaborate and strategize with peers to tackle realistic national and international crises—testing your decision-making, leadership, and teamwork under pressure.
- Unwind with friends during an evening of music, laughter, and friendly competition—sing your heart out and challenge your peers to classic and modern board games.
Day 5
- Hear a powerful firsthand account from a veteran who overcame adversity and now shares insights on the human impact of national security.
- Witness the solemn Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns, participate in a respectful Wreath-Laying Ceremony, and pay tribute at the Kennedy Gravesites—honoring legacy, sacrifice, and national service.
- Discover the heart of American history and culture with visits to iconic national memorials and the renowned Smithsonian Museums—an inspiring journey through the nation's legacy, innovation, and ideals.
Day 6
- Experts in the field of intelligence will answer students’ questions and share insight on careers and opportunities of this in-demand field.
- Collaborate with peers to explore the foundations of national security, define strategic priorities, and examine the role of leadership in shaping effective responses to global challenges.
- Enjoy a relaxing dinner in the historic district, then head to the National Mall for an evening exploring the nation’s memorials.
Day 7
- Continue your role in a fast-paced crisis simulation where you’ll team up with peers to solve real-world national and international challenges—using strategy, communication, and leadership to make impactful decisions.
- Share your experiences and learn from others in a relaxed group activity focused on exploring career paths and recapping key takeaways.
- Wrap up the week with a fun and inspiring closing ceremony celebrating your journey through national security.
- Show off your talents in a fun and creative Variety Show that features music, dance, and more.
Day 8
- Students who have flights will be brought to the airport while all other students will wait to be picked up
Health & Safety
Travel with confidence knowing you're never alone out there. When you choose Envision by WorldStrides, you've got an entire support network working around the clock to keep you safe.
Learn More
Safety Monitoring
Extensive Preparation
Local Support
Hear from Our Alumni
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Earn College Credit While Exploring Your Future
As a result of the academic quality, rigor, and outcomes of Envision programming, NYLF National Security has been reviewed and approved for college credit by George Mason University's Office of Admissions. Residential students can earn two college credits per session, included in tuition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any special qualifications or experience?
No prior experience is required. This program is designed for high school students who are curious about national security careers and want to develop leadership skills in a collaborative environment.
Will I really get to visit government facilities?
Yes! Past site visits have included the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Department of State, U.S. Naval Academy, and Arlington National Cemetery, though specific visits may vary by session.
How does the college credit work?
Through our partnership with George Mason University, eligible students can earn two college credits.
What makes this different from other summer programs?
National Security offers access to government facilities, hands-on crisis simulations, strategic decision-making exercises, and immersive experiences you can't get anywhere else.
What career paths will I explore in this program?
You'll explore diverse career opportunities in diplomacy (State Department, foreign service), intelligence (CIA, NSA, FBI), defense (military branches, Department of Defense), cybersecurity, homeland security, and policy analysis.
Your Nomination Makes An Impact
For over 40 years, Envision’s programs have helped students discover their passion, test drive careers, and develop as leaders. Give students an opportunity to reach their full potential by nominating them today.