Through this program, I learned various different skills, from personal branding to asset allocations and everything in between. I believe that the knowledge I was able to learn from this program enabled me to be far more financially savvy than my peers. Let's be honest: how many other 16-year-olds are pleading with their parents to add them as authorized users on their credit cards so that they can have a good credit score by 18 and apply for their own credit cards? Apart from the other outstanding students who also participated in the program, I am not aware of any.

One aspect that had a profound impact on me personally was the wide array of professional engagement opportunities available. These opportunities ranged from networking sessions to pitching ideas to expert panel discussions, and each one proved to be as valuable as the last. The wealth of experiences I gained from these interactions was truly invaluable.  One significant takeaway from my interactions with these professionals was the realization that I didn't need to have my entire future mapped out. I used to believe that I had to choose a specific interest, a major, and then a career path, following a narrow, predetermined route. However, this couldn't have been further from the truth.

In December of 2022, I had the incredible opportunity to visit the Lazard office in the city and meet many of these accomplished professionals in person. The event left a lasting impression, allowing me to connect with these experts on a personal level through our conversations.

Leaving the Lazard office that day, I carried with me the understanding that even these highly accomplished professionals hadn't known precisely what their academic and professional journeys would look like when they first started. This realization gave me the confidence to embrace the uncertainty of my own path.

I've gained countless invaluable experiences, opportunities, and knowledge through this program. In brief, I'll be forever grateful for the chance to be a part of it. This program not only enriched my life with knowledge but also provided a unique platform for connecting with my peers during a time of isolation amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a beacon of community and collaboration, offering a supportive network that I deeply appreciated. Furthermore, the program provided me with the opportunity to work on a variety of critical skills. It has been a comprehensive learning journey that has extended far beyond the classroom, from polishing my teamwork and communication skills to developing problem-solving and critical thinking skills. These skills will undoubtedly serve me well as I continue to grow and explore new horizons.