The Knowledge Society Reviews 38

TKS is and amazing program my experience in the last year and now has been amazing. I have learnt so much and meet so many amazing people!

When I was first accepted into TKS in eighth grade, I felt a lot of imposter syndrome because it seemed like a lot of the kids in the program had already been coding or working on different projects before for a long time. Over the 1.5 years I’ve been in the program, I’m happy to say that I’ve become close friends with many of the people I was originally intimidated by. TKS has a very welcoming environment and it really doesn’t matter how much you’ve done before the program, it matters what you do once you’re in the program. I’ve learned so much about myself and the world from the directors, challenges, and sessions, but my biggest takeaway has been realizing just how much I can do even as a teen and all the superpowers you have with the internet and a bit of support from mentors. I could go on and on about all the positives of TKS but thought I should mention the only negative aspect of the program I can think of which is comparison. Especially if you join at a younger age, it’s hard not to compare yourself to what others are achieving. This was hard for me at the start of Innovate and prevented me from making much progress. Luckily, the directors do a good job addressing this and are always available to provide support. Plus, once you get to know the community members, you’ll realize just how friendly and open they are + realize you’re not so different from them after all. So, in summary, I’d highly recommend TKS if you’re ambitious and interested in building out real projects in tech & science. Even if you don’t think you have enough experience, I guarantee you do! If my pre-TKS self heard my current self talking, she’d probably not understand half the words coming out of my mouth ;) There’s literally no downside to applying.

As an Innovator in The Knowledge Society, I can safely say that this past experience over the past 7 months has been life-changing. I am clearly not the person I was in September and I think without the help of right mentors, peers and mindsets, I would not be where I am today.

The technological experience couldn't have been more fun and interactive than this. Its safe to say that you could potentially learn about these advanced technologies without TKS, but you cannot find a community like this. You cannot find a place where everyone around you does nothing but support you and wants to see you thrive. The feedback, learning steps and growth indicators will allow you to 10x yourself and become the best version of yourself. My current experience at TKS has been amazing so far!

Since starting the program in September of 2020, (as cliche as it sounds), my life has completely changed for the better.

TKS has absolutely skyrocketed my potential and allowed me to gain clarity on both my own personal and professional visions. It's provided me with the mindsets, guidance, mentorship, and support to seriously level up my skills.

Even though you'll find other people talking about this, I personally think the most valuable part of the program is the community. The community is absolutely insane. Everyone's working on legit stuff. Everyone is always there to support you, through your highs and lows. The culture that all of the members set at the beginning of the program is so powerful, since it completely contrasts the competitive and toxic environments that can be found at school.

Lastly, since joining the program, I've gotten a lot better at a variety of soft skills (i.e. cold outreach, external meetings, interviewing, presentation skills, among many others) and technical skills (emerging tech, programming skills, and etc).

I would strongly recommend the program to anyone that doesn't want to settle for the status quo. TKS is all about unlearning, and then building you back up to be 10 times more prepared to change the world and impact people.

TKS Literally changed my life! TKS is filled with so many bright and amazing students. I've met my best friends through TKS and I couldn't be even more thankful for them, since it was virtual this year I didn't think I would be able to make any friends but I've made so many! The mindsets they teach us life-changing! My favorite one's being celebrating others and anti-fragility. When we achieve our goals a lot of us forget the people that helped us along the way. I love giving shoutouts to at least 3 different people each month. It just feels great seeing others feel good about themselves. My second favorite being anti-fragility is when you fail at something you actually see what you could do better
than actually apply it to yourself and your projects.

This program has completely changed my life in the best way possible. I joined The Knowledge Society because I felt like I had more potential than I was using at school, and I wanted to see what I could do with it. I had no STEM experience, just an open mind and a strong sense of curiosity. Joining is arguably one of the best decisions I have ever made, because my growth since I joined just six months ago has been exponential.

I have developed a passion for exponential science and technology, and learned how to make professional content to display this. In addition, each week I learn a new mindset or way of thinking that I can apply to other aspects of life to combat challenges. Even beyond the technical skills and mindsets, there's an incredible social aspect. It's such a gift to have the opportunity to constantly be surrounded by intelligent and like minded students from around the area. I never would have been able to meet so many new friends or create such strong bonds if not for TKS, and for this I'm endlessly grateful.

The Knowledge Society has opened the door to so many rare and unique experiences including partnering with international organizations such as the United Nations. I have truly had such an incredibly experience with TKS, and I can't emphasize enough how strongly I recommend it to other kids my age regardless of their past experience with STEM (or lack thereof).

I'm currently in the Innovate program at The Knowledge Society and it's safe to say that the growth that I've seen in myself wouldn't have possible if I wasn't pushed by my mentors and friends in this program. We have learned about networking, mindsets, presentation skills, teamwork and so much more.

To be brutally honest, learning about the technologies, networking and the more technical side of things can be done without TKS. However, the one thing that TKS offers that is hard to find elsewhere in the community. When you are surrounded by people that have the same drive as you to become a better version of yourself, pursuing goals become so much easier since now you can share your experiences with your friends. Don't get me wrong, it is definitely possible to learn networking, making YouTube videos, practicing mindsets on your own, but it will be much harder doing it alone than having a community that is constantly pushing you.

Given that I didn't have many friends in school who I could talk to about philosophy, or have deep conversations, or even just goof around about our academic interests, TKS exposed me to these kinds of friends. Overall, the community combined with all of the things we have learned over the year made my experience at TKS awesome so far!

I've been in The Knowledge Society (TKS) for around six months now. My experience has been amazing. Throughout, I've made really close connections with people from all over the world - which I never expected. Not to mention, you have access to every student, no matter where they're located, through one click of a button. It's such a great collaborative space to share resources and opportunities, and it's incredibly easy to form teams for any challenge, since you can reach out to anyone! I recently worked with a program (Hunger: Not Impossible) to solve food insecurity in Vegas, and it taught me a LOT about making split-second decisions in a business and how to work in a team. Overall, I love TKS. I've grown into a stronger, productive person ever since I began the program.

TKS is an amazing program, although I was hesitant to join the program at first because I thought it was only for genius. When I applied and got in I was so happy and trust me when I say that TKS has met my expectation and even gone above and beyond. I have met so many brilliant and hard working people during my short time in TKS. I have also gotten to work on amazing challenges with Acadium and am currently working with the UN because of TKS. I have created a lot of content on topics that would not have crossed my mind had I not have joined TKS and I have build relationships with legit people. There is a lot that you learn in TKS and if you are some one who is hard working is willing to learn then TKS is just for you!!

TKS is where I really changed the way I do everything. When I came into the program a year ago, I had no clue what it would become. 8 months later and I realize now that I'm a completely different person than when I started. I've pitched to companies, worked with the UN, written articles and gotten internships all through this experience.

Like a lot of people, I was pretty skeptical about joining this program. I thought to myself: “how are kids my age becoming experts in emerging technologies?” and “how are they speaking on world-class stages?” Well, turns out it’s because of the mindsets, skills, and best practices learnt in TKS. It’s been six months since I’ve started, and it’s definitely changed aspects of my life. Before joining, I thought I knew what it meant to be productive or effectively talk to people. Obviously, I didn’t have a clue! Luckily, in these past few months of consuming content, and applying my teachings, I’ve been able to understand myself better. Understand how far I’m willing to go to do something. And most importantly, understand how far I can actually push myself. This program isn’t like any other extra-curricular, not because it’s deemed as a “human-accelerator”, but because it’s main goal is to elevate ambitious young people, and prepare them for a successful career that will impact others.

What I like most about this program is that there’s a HUGE community of people who want to create change in the world just like you. With there being kids from all over the world, you can easily connect with people and make new friends. In the summer when I first got accepted, I was beyond scared to hop on a call and talk to a complete stranger. But now, I’ve gotten way better. I wouldn’t say I’ve found my best friends in the program, but I’ve definitely met people who I’ll be friends with for a lifetime.

In terms of things that I’ve learned in the program, it’s that there’s a whole universe of technology out there that’s not taught about in school. I knew nothing about nanotechnology or quantum computing before I joined, but now, I understand how they can impact the future. On this note of emerging tech, something that’s important to know is that once you find something of interest, it’s up to you to learn everything about it. This figure s*** out on your own mindset is constantly being instilled. If you want to do something, you have to figure it out yourself, because in the real world, you can’t always have people right by your side doing everything for you.

It would be completely wrong of me to say this program is perfect, or that everyone should do it. However, I do think the habits and ethics that are being installed are life-changing!

When I was first applying to the program, I thought that it was going to be easy. After all, TKS is just an after-school program right? Wrong. There is so much more to this program than you think there is. Training to change the world is a pretty general thing, but is more straight forward when you break it down.

There is no program that trains you for achieving your biggest ambitions as well as TKS, and they break it down so well that you can turn things that you (don't know that you don't know) into things that you are consciously skilled at.

Another big thing with this program is that it is real world. You learn how to handle tough feedback/meetings, figure it out, and make high quality content/project. There is a great community who shares their experiences who you can chat with and make new friends, really recommend this program.

I initially thought this program might have been a scam but I'm forever glad that I went through with this and decided to join. TKS is one of the best programs I've been in and an amazing way for teenagers to push their potential and really understand what it means to experience personal growth. The community is insanely close, regardless of all of us being all over the world. I started doing things that actually make sense and was able to start working on projects that I know will have an impact on the future of the world.

The Directors will push you to grow. The challenges and hackathons are hard but you'll learn so much more than you thought you would. Late night work calls with the smartest and most ambitious kids. TKS is not something you can log in hours for every week. It's a lifestyle that gets integrated into how you live.

This is a program for teenagers who see problems in our world and will put in the time and effort to be part of the group that will change the world and solve those problems. Prove that when it comes to innovation and impacting billions of people, age doesn't matter.

At first I was really skeptical of TKS because everyone seemed like they were geniuses who will become future billionaires, but the community was super friendly and welcomed me not matter how much of a beginner at everything I was. Even after the very first session my perspective of my whole world changed. This is where you are really armored up and trained to reach your biggest dreams.

I highly highly recommend TKS. Not only has it solidified my confidence, mindset, and skills, but my bestest like-minded friends are all from this community. I went into the program knowing NOTHING about VR, blockchain, AI, quantum computing, etc. Now I can see all the industries they are impacting and will impact.

For those who are worried about joining TKS because your mind is focused on school, grades, and extracurriculars (I was too), TKS will open your eyes to what will really make you stand out from the rest. I’ve also created a much better work-life balance by talking to people in TKS. I used to think keeping good sleep and exercise with rigorous school work and other activities was impossible. This community has thousands of people who would be willing to help you along the way. Don’t miss the chance, and remember that it’s never too late to grasp this opportunity.

If you're young, curious, and ambitious, then TKS is the program for you. The thing is... TKS is less of a program and more of a way of life. You get to work with some of the biggest companies in the world, solve some huge problems, and meet like-minded people. Trust me - constant growth becomes addictive

Talking generally can only tell you so much, however, so I'll talk about my own experience. I went into TKS not knowing anything about the real world; I merely focused on my schoolwork and played soccer. Midway through the program, here are some of the cool things I've done.

- Developed a passion for Artificial Intelligence (before entering, I barely knew what it was)
- Developed multiple Machine Learning algorithms (classifying breast cancer and identifying pneumonia in chest X-ray images)
- Worked with a huge fitness wearable tech company from Boston
- Worked with the United Nations to combat gender inequality
- A translator that can convert a person's brain waves into speech (this could be revolutionary for people who can't speak)

What separates TKS from other STEM programs is that you can genuinely follow your passion. There are no grades; there are no tests. It's entirely up to you what you work on, and you can guarantee that you can meet amazing experts in the TKS global community, regardless of the field or topic you choose.

Here is my take on TKS:

Here’s something I live by: practice what you preach. And TKS does just that. It’s almost been the one-year anniversary of the March COVID-19 lockdown here in California and I have to admit, I was pretty disappointed to hear that the in-person TKS program will be virtual. Nevertheless, I continued to be patient with hopping on Zoom calls all the time and associating names with screens, not names with faces.

The first few months of TKS were a bit of a blur. I say this because I had not yet activated the mindsets the program had taught me. I was trying to be intentional about everything I did and I was trying to understand every step of breaking down a Harvard Business case study, but it was difficult. It was hard to not think about how others were progressing with their work and productivity habits and comparing myself to them. I had to continue to push myself and practice one of TKS and YesTheory’s iconic mantras: seek discomfort.

Fast forward to December 2020, I remember laying on my bed, staring at the ceiling, trying to come up with New Years resolutions and reflect on my year. I came to realize that I was building strong friendships and meeting new people everyday through my laptop screen. I realized that computer screens should not be the barrier to your ability to access an active, supportive community of ambitious, self-driven, and wise people of all ages.

I also reflected on what I accomplished in school, TKS, and life in general. People always told me: if you start earlier, the better. But what I really needed to hear was: if you start with passion, the better; if you start earlier that’s even better. TKS helps you find your ignition. That ignition is where passion is hidden. That passion is your fuel to navigate whatever lies ahead in your near future.

I have not been able to pinpoint my career path or scientific passions before TKS. If you want exposure, to combat your ignorance, and solve real world problems, TKS is the right fit for you. If you want to meet your life-long friends and commit to actively participating in sessions and making the most out of your year, TKS is the right fit for you. Lastly, if you want to learn how to be authentic, self-motivated, and consistent, TKS is the right fit for you.

The best thing about TKS is that it takes a multifaceted and hands-on approach to guiding students on the path towards greatness. The program targets everything from building highly-specific technical skills to the grand philosophies and mindsets you need to tackle life’s greatest challenges. They give you a taste of every emerging technology and a vast toolbox for tackling problems in science, technology, business, and beyond, giving you the resources you need to make your goals actionable. Most importantly, TKS doesn’t spoon-feed you the questions like they do in school. They make you ask the questions yourself and draw upon your knowledge to develop your own insights and curiosity. While it may feel uncomfortable at first — they quite literally throw you in the deep end and make you come to terms with your failure — it accelerates your learning tenfold. The program has completely shifted my perspective on learning how to learn, and I now feel prepared to take on new knowledge and apply it with maximum payoff.

I've been apart of the TKS program for about a year now! TKS is super awesome and is full of amazing like-minded people who aim to make the world a better place through technology. TKS has given me the opportunity to work with companies like the Pathcheck foundation and even the United Nations! Through TKS, I can focus on the technologies I'm passionate about. And I didn't know anything about AI or Self-driving cars pre-TKS. I've gone from knowing nothing about AI, to actually building out AI models just within the span of a year!