I saw amazing things while there. It was a huge strengthening time for many kids. Especially those who were struggling with their testimony and for those who lived outside of Utah.
Some of these kids had only interacted with a handful of LDS youth their whole life. It was a huge boost for them to see their peers believe and practice the same principles, values, and standards they did.
Sure, it can a little sensationalized at times but no harm done. In fact, while I was a counselor, there was a huge push to move away from sensationalizing the Gospel and to teach from the scriptures.
It was a wonderful and inspired program.