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OSSM is a mix of the most challenging experience I have ever had, and the most rewarding at the same time. I have learned so much so far, and I have gained friends I would have never gained anywhere else!

Being at OSSM can be challenging. Natalie believes that students must have grit to persevere through difficult times and make it to good ones. “I chose OSSM because the education is so much more challenging than the one I could have received elsewhere.” Career Goal: General Surgeon

I learned the value of true friendship and to be more accepting of my own imperfection (such as grades) because in the end we all learn from our faults and flaws and can always improve.  OSSM certainly has given me a first, real experience of hard work — There is no time or space for procrastination!  

OSSM has changed my life because it challenged me academically as student. Growing up, I wasn’t the smartest nor the best at academics, but I enjoy a good challenge because it conditions my commitment and perseverance. In addition, OSSM gave me close relationship with other like-minded individuals, living and learning with each other.

Coming from rural Oklahoma, my ambition to be an aerospace engineer didn’t draw out many peers or mentors from my community.  Besides the academic growth that came from attending, OSSM  impacted me by helping me grow extensive peer and professional networks, which have since led to several exclusive opportunities.  Since graduating in Spring 2018, I have completed two summer internships with The Boeing Co. and written a proposal accepted by NASA.

OSSM is such a special place. Being here, I’ve been able to explore the forefront of STEM which has helped me decide the direction of my future studies.

Being at OSSM has challenged me more than I could have imagined.  I have really learned about the academic world through various assignments and opportunities; I feel very prepared for college. Anyone considering OSSM should know that, though challenging, OSSM has an amazing support system. OSSM has also provided many opportunities and experiences which help students grow personally and intellectually, unique to its boarding school setting.

Attending OSSM has given me a support group in the form of fellow students turned family.  The small class size, amiable environment, and awesome faculty has set the bar that all future education will be measured against.  

OSSM offers me an academic challenge I would have never gotten at my home high-school. This certainly allows me to push myself to my best potential so that in the future I will continue to have a good work ethic, as well as the ability to overcome any obstacles in my way!

I have learned the importance of managing a profound amount of work with spending time to relax.  Learning to balance the two ideas can change how you approach all work in life for the better, making you a more effective worker.