Another day at Yale, more stunning sunshine. The weather has certainly been bright and cheerful and fortunately it appears to be reflected by the ORA participants as Wednesday was no less brilliant than the days before.

The morning again consisted of academic sessions and the participants found the challenges stepping up a level. Despite the furrowed brows, everybody met this with great enthusiasm and it has been fantastic to see the progress that they have all made.

Projects have also started being handed out to the participants, and subjects for presentations have been chosen, which has inspired everyone to start researching their topics. Those involved in the Business Challenge went out to do some market research for their budding businesses – and took the opportunity to sample some street cuisine from the food trucks on the way back.

The afternoon was more relaxed, with participants given a chance to get ahead on their homework before Thursday’s Independence Day celebrations. Everyone made the most of their additional free time, with most enjoying the relief of the cool basement Common Room. People played cards or board games, and the atmosphere was only enhanced with a sing-along of the Spider Man theme song! There were also some games of Pool and Basketball which looked like great fun!

Overall the day was a very successful one, with the participants finding a good balance between hard work and enjoyment. Everyone has embraced the spirit of the programme brilliantly and it’s paying off as friendships are formed and knowledge is gained. Keep it up Yale!