We did W21, and whilst the point that 'remote < in-person' has some validity, I fundamentally disagree on the points about YC's network, partners and community.

We did W21, and whilst the point that 'remote < in-person' has some validity, I fundamentally disagree on the points about YC's network, partners and community. Most of the YC network effects occur after demo day. Likewise, most of the socialising occurs after demo day, as during the batch companies have little time to socialise. You get out of the network what you put in. Similarly, with YC partner advice - it depends on how you utilise it. To be honest, we probably under-utilise the partners (we made most of our stupid startup mistakes pre-YC). But looking at batch-mates I've seen companies attribute pivotal decisions to YC advice, particularly during funding rounds. I'd liken it a college experience - you won't be spoon-fed like you were in preschool. You must be self-directed to be successful, and there's always someone smarter and more successful than you to learn from.