Other links:
Other links:
Explore the Science of the Mind
The Young Scholars Programme: Psychology, Behaviour, & Well-being (YSP PBW) is designed to provide high school students entering grades 9-12 with an in-depth exploration of the scientific study of the mind, human behavior, and the principles of well-being. YSP PBW is an application-based programme designed to introduce students to the intricacies of psychological theories, their real-world applications, the drivers of individual and collective behavior, and the multifaceted nature of physical and mental well-being.
This programme delves into emerging and dynamic fields like Forensic Psychology, Behavioral Economics, Neuroscience of Decision-Making, Emotion Regulation, Computational Neuroscience, Data Science in Behavioral Studies, AI and Ethics, Nudging, Decision Theory, and Psychometrics. These sessions emphasize the interdisciplinary connections between psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral sciences, fostering a deeper understanding of human behavior and decision-making
It aims to engage students with key concepts from psychology and neuroscience, while also introducing them to practical strategies for enhancing mental health and well-being in their own lives and communities. Students will attend faculty seminars with Ashoka faculty such as Prof. Bittu Kaveri Rajaraman, Prof. Simi Ghosh and Prof. Annie Baxi, pioneers in the field of psychology and neurosciences. They will also attend workshops with leading practitioners such as Dr Arvinder Singh, Reena Gupta and the Ashoka Centre for Well–being and gain a refined perspective on the many applications of psychological and neuroscientific theories on physical, emotional and mental well-being.
Engage with Science and Self
Throughout the programme, students will explore how psychological theories and research explain human thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. They will also learn about the factors that influence well-being, including stress management, emotional regulation, and positive psychology practices. This interdisciplinary approach not only enhances academic understanding but also equips students with practical tools to improve their own mental health and support others.
The programme offers a comprehensive exploration of psychology, starting with the foundational principles of cognition, emotion, and social behavior. Our scholars will delve into behavioral science, gaining insights into the factors that influence human decision-making and social dynamics. In addition, the programme emphasizes on the practice of psychology in the context of clinical and counseling practices, research methodologies and well-being interventions. Through practical applications, students will engage in hands-on projects, applying psychological theories to real-world challenges, including mental health advocacy and designing interventions to promote well-being.
Beyond academic enrichment, YSP PBW offers a holistic college experience. Scholars reside in student dormitories, savor meals at Ashoka’s diverse dining facilities, engage in sports activities and activities such as Talent Night, Networking Night, Quizzes, Debates and so on. Our scholars forge lasting bonds with like-minded peers from across India and the globe. It’s an immersive journey into the world of psychology, individual and group behavior, fostering curiosity, collaboration, and innovation.
Hands-on projects at YSP PBW
These are some of the hands on workshops students may engage in:
Career Pathways
YSP PBW introduces students to a variety of future pathways where psychology, behavioral science, and mental health expertise play a critical role. These include:
Through YSP PBW, students gain early exposure to these fields, helping them make informed decisions about college outcomes and career decisions.
Applications for YSP 2026 are now closed.
Stay tuned for updates on the upcoming cycle, follow us on social media and check our website for announcements.
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Knowledge:
Skills:
Attitude:
Application:
In this programme, students will explore a range of fascinating topics that delve into the workings of the mind and behavior. Faculty sessions will cover topics such as Cognitive Processes and Memory, where students will learn how the brain stores and retrieves information; The Science of Emotions, which examines how feelings influence decision-making and relationships; Social Influence and Group Dynamics, exploring how peer pressure and leadership affect behavior; and Positive Psychology and Well-being, offering evidence-based techniques to promote resilience, mindfulness, and overall mental health. Each session is designed to cover both, the theoretical and the applications, providing students with insights they can apply to their own lives.
A day at Young Scholars Programme: Psychology, Behaviour and Well-Being (YSP PBW) starts off with faculty-led sessions after which students then find themselves in our workshops which are designed to function as an exciting and interactive space for students to become products of their learnings.
This experience is enhanced with our guest speakers who share insights from industry practice, equipping students with real-world as well as academic knowledge.
The day winds down with fun & recreational activities including sports and the performing arts.
A sample schedule for the YSP PBW is given below. (tentative schedule, subject to change)
YSP PBW Programme Schedule1) What is the Young Scholars Programme: Psychology, Behaviour, and Well-being (YSP PBW)?
YSP Psychology, Behaviour, and Well-being (PBW) is a certified 5-day programme that aims to engage students with key concepts in psychology and neuroscience, while also introducing them to practical strategies for enhancing mental health and well-being in their own lives and communities. Students will explore how psychological theories and research explain human thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. They will also learn about factors influencing well-being, including stress management, emotional regulation, and positive psychology practices. Understanding motivations, decision-making and cognitive biases, students explore how insights in psychology have powerful implications in diverse domains — from health sciences to technological innovations to behavioural economics, and beyond.
2) Is YSP PBW an online or offline programme?
YSP Psychology, Behaviour & Well-being (PBW) is an offline, residential programme and will be held in person at Ashoka University Campus in Sonipat, Haryana.
3) What is liberal arts and sciences education?
Liberal Arts & Sciences education celebrates discussion and debate in the classroom. A Liberal Arts & Science education focuses on providing critical thinking skills and multiple perspectives to students, which is considered an essential part of leading an ethical and purposeful life. Essentially, it incorporates breadth and depth across multiple disciplines.
4) Do we get a certificate for attending The Young Scholars Programme?
Yes, students will be given a certificate on successful completion of the programme, provided all sessions are attended and there has been desirable participation by the student. Upon receipt of your certificate, please save it securely for your use later on. However, if you happen to lose it, a second copy of the certificate will be provided which will be chargeable for a sum of Rs. 500/-
5) Will attending the programme increase my chances of getting admission to the undergraduate programme at Ashoka University?
Attending the programme will give you an insight on liberal arts & sciences education and the Ashoka pedagogy. This will surely help you with your undergraduate application form at Ashoka University. However, this does not guarantee admission to the Ashoka UG programme.
In the beginning, I was scared that I wouldn’t be able to manage myself because I didn’t know anyone around here, I was alone, and for the five days, I didn’t know what I would do. However, I learned how to manage my time, where the locations were and everything, so I became more independent and a more expressive person, even though I usually consider myself really shy. YSP has taught me a lot about myself, opened up a new world of learning, and given me some amazing memories – like dancing together on chat and chart night and discovering new interests I never expected.
I feel like at YSP we are given the option to express ourselves the way we like and we’re not forced into anything – we can choose our interests and act upon them. I love learning about the cultural context and how most psychology books won’t teach you what cultures do. It’s good to be educated on all kinds of things like that.
YSP contributed to a clearer understanding of my subject preferences. I already knew i was interested in psychology but was little confused on what all disciplines are in psychology. Through YSP I got a better understanding of what all comes in psychology such as social psychology, positive psychology, history, counselling, biology, gender psychology, etc.
