Stanford University Online High School

Why did you choose OHS?

I chose OHS because I needed more rigorous course material. I attended the local public school through 9th grade, and while I had some amazing instructors there, I wasn't challenged enough. While many students thrived with the curriculum offered, I was easily bored. I ended up taking an English course usually reserved for seniors in my freshmen year, and my instructor didn't realize I was the token underclassman until halfway through the course. So, when I discovered OHS, it seemed like an excellent option. After further research, I decided to attend OHS full time, because it worked best for me.

What are classes like at OHS?

Classes at OHS are unlike anything I ever expected, coming into the school as a 10th grader. They're highly interactive, and many classes grade based on participation. Every student is part of the discussion, which creates classes full of engaging conversation and sometimes even a few informal debates. While the academic work is challenging, it is also very rewarding. OHS instructors have high standards for their students, and the work load reflects this. While sometimes the reading can be heavy, but the opportunity to read pieces such as Voltaire's Candide, Milton's Paradise Lost, and Virginia Wolfe's A Room of One's Own has been a reward in and of itself. Many classes, such as AP Biology and Democracy Freedom and Rule of Law had additional weekly lectures, which allowed us to gain an understanding of the information before our discussion. This let students attack the crux of the topic, and go into further explanation of topics students had questions on, instead of spending time on information students already understood. For example, in my mathematics courses, we watch two or three lectures, attempt the homework before attending class, and then bring questions to class. Our instructor then walks us through difficult problems and encourages students to try problems on the board using drawing tablets. If we have any further questions after trying the assignment for a second time after class, we can then go to office hours to get further help.

What is student life like at OHS?

The first question anyone has for me when I tell them about OHS almost always has to do with my social life. Before beginning my first school year at OHS, I attended their Summer Program, at the time called Summer Session. While there, I immediately clicked with my fellow students. The bonds I made those few weeks have lasted throughout my time at OHS. Some of the best conversations I've ever had have occurred at Summer Session, because everyone attending is very likeminded. The combination of cultural diversity and similar interests creates the most wonderful group of people, although sometimes we can be a bit quirky. Outside of our two weeks at Summer Session, we still talk. Skype groups are available for each class, and many students use these to discuss the material outside of class. OHS also offers clubs, which allow likeminded students to join together for discussion on topics. I am the President of the Psychology Club, and our meetings have topics that range from the psychology of animal linguistics to the validity of IQ. What I love most about our community is that no matter your interest, someone will share it.

How has OHS helped you realize your goals?

OHS has helped me develop my writing abilities beyond anything I could have expected. From ten-page lab reports to detailed research papers, when I entered OHS, I was not prepared for the level of writing the last few years has required. OHS humbled me, making me realize that A level writing didn't necessarily mean it was perfect, and challenged me to go beyond traditional paper outlines I learned when I was younger. My instructors have taught me that even if I'm a good writer, I have the potential to be a great one, but it will take practice and work. My classes have given me the opportunity to develop my skills beyond standard high school writing.

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