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This firsthand account showcases the transformative nature of one-on-one learning experiences and highlights the unique opportunities for growth and development provided by the university. “Every class you’ll take will be one-on-one. Just you and the teacher.”
“Pardon me? I think I misheard you. Did you say, ‘one teacher, one student?’”
That exchange took place (more or less) during my admissions interview at Oxford Academy—a conversation I will never forget. Up until that point, I had spent my entire academic career in traditional classroom settings. The idea of being the sole focus of a teacher’s attention for an entire period was a foreign concept to me—something I could hardly believe.
Then I saw it, experienced it, and lived it. And it completely changed my approach to learning and what I could achieve.
Why One-on-One?
Explaining the benefits of one-on-one teaching is easy, but the real impact it has on students is profound. At Oxford, every student experiences this differently, and the measure of success is unique to each one. However, one thing is the same for everyone: having a completely customized curriculum that’s built just for that student. This approach is all about making sure everyone can achieve in their own way.
The success lies in the personal connection forged between student and teacher. The relationship isn’t student versus teacher, but rather a true partnership and collaboration aimed at achieving a common goal.
For me, the one-on-one approach at Oxford meant that I could create a specific academic course option and academic path focused on the sciences, which led me to achieve my goal of attending college and pursuing further studies. The Oxford Method didn’t just prepare me academically; it helped me develop the discipline and critical thinking skills needed for a career.
Twenty Minutes
Having been used to hour-long classes shared with dozens of other students, my first reaction to a 20-minute class was, “Is that enough time?” I quickly learned that, yes, it is. Especially if you haven’t done the reading.
However, there are times when 20 minutes isn’t enough. Like many other students, I took Advanced Placement (AP) courses to avoid a few classes in college. I took AP Biology, and my classes lasted anywhere from 40 to 60 minutes each day, thanks to the system’s flexibility. My teacher was a biology guru and our discussions were engaging and in-depth. To this day, I still remember many of the complex lessons (well, some of them).
Achieve at Your Own Speed
Another benefit of the one-on-one system was that I could be pushed as hard as possible—a notion I didn’t fully appreciate at the time. My teachers and I quickly found my upper limits, and the system ensured I was always able to drink deeply from the fountain of knowledge, at the pace my brain could handle.
“Are You Sure You Can Do It?”
That’s what the Dean of Studies asked me several times when I expressed interest in taking both Physics and AP Biology during my senior year. My college admissions advisor had pointed out that my portfolio was missing a key component—all three hard sciences. I had biology and chemistry covered, but college admissions boards wanted to see those plus physics. I was more interested in AP Biology, but I knew my application needed to show I had taken (and passed) physics to be competitive. So, I did both in one year. Why? Because I could—the system made it possible.
I also got my first gray hair that year.
“Were You Prepared?”
When people find out I attended a high school with one-on-one teaching, they often ask how I adjusted to being back in a traditional classroom, where I was just another face in the crowd. They also ask if Oxford prepared me for college.
Without hesitation, I can say I was prepared. Adjusting to being one of many again did take some time, but I managed.
At Oxford, I developed strong study habits. I learned my limits and, more importantly, what I needed to do to overcome them. The success I experienced at Oxford, along with the best practices and approaches ingrained in me by my teachers, carried over into college. I graduated in four years with a Bachelor of Science degree—and even earned two varsity letters. Thank you, Oxford. Truly.
I greatly benefited from the one-on-one teaching and the nurturing environment that only a school like Oxford can provide. The tailored learning approach allowed me to receive a top-tier education, preparing me well for the rigors of college academics. As a result, I reached my goals. Your son will too.
JaeMi Pennington is a member of the Oxford class of 1995. He has a Bachelor of Science from Hobart College where he majored in psychology and minored in writing. JaeMi lives in New Hampshire and is a frequent visitor to campus.
