What is the schedule like during the week?
The YEBW schedule is jam-packed with activities, company meetings, college and career exploration opportunities, and guest speakers. A typical day begins with an all-program meeting at 8:30 a.m., followed by activities through 10 p.m. Students who would like to retire to their dorm rooms early are not required to participate in Life Balance Activities, which typically begin around 9 p.m. Each day, at least a full hour is given for both lunch and dinner.
I’m a graduating senior. Can I still attend YEBW this summer?
Yes, students in the graduating class of 2015 may attend YEBW 2015.
I will be entering my freshman year of high school in the fall. Can I still attend YEBW this summer?
If you are an incoming freshman wishing to attend the program, YEBW will consider your attendance on a case-by-case basis. Students who have not yet completed their first year of high school are not automatically accepted into the program. A review of school transcripts and a phone interview will take place to determine if YEBW will be a good fit this summer.
What do I need to bring to the week?
After registration, YEBW will email a packet of information that should answer all of your questions about the week, including the check-in process and packing list. Students wear casual attire for the entire week with the exception of Friday, where they will need more formal attire for business presentations, etiquette dinner, and the dance.
Can I select a roommate? How are “random” roommates determined?
Yes, you may choose a same-gender roommate. Dorm floors are separated by gender and monitored all week to ensure a safe environment for everyone. If you do not choose a roommate, you will be assigned a roommate similar in age, likely from a different high school.
How is my company determined?
Each student will be placed in a company of 8-10 students from around the state and country. We take geography, educational background, age, and other factors into account to create an intentionally diverse group of students.
I can’t afford the entire tuition, what can I do?
We have a generous Financial Assistance and fundraising program, which involves an application process. Please submit your Financial Assistance application alongside registration.
I have a lot of business experience. May I skip the first year program?
This experience will be different than any other. Students involved in DECA, FBLA, or other business organizations or experiences will not be underwhelmed or bored at YEBW.
What is the age breakdown of the first year program?
No matter what stage of high school you are in, you will find value in YEBW. Although the exact breakdown changes each year, typically 60-70% of the first year students are sophomores or juniors. Freshmen and seniors make up about 15-20% each.
I don’t have any business experience and have never taken a business class. Will I be overwhelmed?
Most students at YEBW, even those who have taken business classes or have business experience, will be overwhelmed for the first couple of days. The first-year program is designed to benefit students with and without business experience, and there is no background knowledge required to succeed at YEBW.
What does an average day at YEBW look like?
While there is no such thing as an average day at YEBW, most days have some similar elements – meetings with your company of peers to make business decisions for the competition, interactive large group activities that focus on business techniques and leadership skills, guest speakers, and Life Balance Activities.
Is there free time?
Yes, each day there are Life Balance Activities, which consist of a variety of fun games, challenges, sports, and movies. You may also relax, read a book, go to the campus bookstore, or interact with new friends.
Where will I eat and sleep?
At the University of Portland, you will be staying in Fields Hall, the newest dorm on campus, and most meals will be at the Bauccio Commons. At Oregon State University, students will reside in Weatherford Hall, and dine at West Dining Hall.
What do I wear during the week?
You may wear casual attire every day of the week, except Friday, where business/formal is required.
I don’t have access to business/formal attire, what do I do?
Please notify us as soon as possible and we will be able to accommodate your needs.
Will I get accepted?
YEBW registration is a first-come, first-serve process. You may be placed on the wait-list if your campus of choice or program is full, so register as early as possible.
I don’t think my family can afford the full tuition; can I still attend?
Our mission is to provide all high school students with the opportunity to attend our program. Your family may apply for Financial Assistance, and we will work with you to make attending a reality. YEBW's goal is to ensure that every student can attend regardless of financial situation. Please register as early as possible to maximize financial aid and fundraising efforts.