Sebastian Arevalo, Fernando Dominguez, and Emily Crespin, three former students of the Young Talent Program, have been accepted into the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), one of the most prestigious universities in the world. The teens are pursuing degrees in physics, mathematics, and chemistry, respectively, with a focus on research.

At 18 years old, the trio underwent a rigorous admissions process that included interviews, essays, English language proficiency tests, and coursework. Their prior experience in international competitions through the Young Talent Program also boosted their application, as MIT values participation in such events.

Sebastian and Fernando joined the Young Talent Program in 2017 and 2018, respectively, and have since served as tutors for younger students. They have both earned medals in Central American and Caribbean Olympiads. Emily, meanwhile, excelled in chemistry competitions.

Classes at MIT will commence in September of this year, and the teens are already preparing for the cultural, familial, and climate changes they will encounter in Massachusetts. They will be travelling on student visas, and the majority of the cost of their education has been covered by the university, with the remainder being financed through personal funding.

Their families and friends are proud of their achievements and supportive of their goals. After completing their undergraduate degrees, the teens plan to pursue further studies and focus on research. “I plan to pursue a master’s and a doctorate in areas like number theory or complex analysis, and then conduct research at a university,” said Fernando.

The trio attributes their success to hard work, discipline, and perseverance, and urge other young people to follow their dreams. “It’s important for each young person to push themselves and commit to their studies. I want to tell other young people that if they have an interest in an area like mathematics, they should not give up, because talent is developed through perseverance and discipline,” said Sebastian.

The acceptance of these Salvadoran teens into MIT is a testament to their dedication and the quality of education provided by the Young Talent Program. It is also a source of inspiration for other young people in El Salvador and around the world who aspire to achieve great things through their education.