June 4, 2022
During Pixel Gathering and Graduation Weekend, a group of Stanford OHS alumni returned to Stanford University campus to share where they are now, and what they took away from their experience at our online school. Through the pandemic, some students took a gap year, others taught their new friends tips for how to take classes effectively online. Here are some of the lessons our Forever Pixels shared:
"Going to college, you see the difference in how Stanford OHS prepares you for the world. The work we did in class translates, and the skills we learned prepared us for college and for real world experience." - Zoraver Dhillon, Stanford OHS Class of 2020
"I was a part-time student and I came to Stanford OHS from a normal middle school which didn't put as much demand on the student. Stanford OHS is hands-off, you have to be prepared for class and you have to be on top of it. Stanford OHS is great at encouraging space to talk to people and go to office hours with your instructors. It's so important to develop that habit. Instructors know how to put you on the track to success and build the skills you need. Everyone wants to help you and everyone wants the best for you." - Dylan Chalcraft, Stanford OHS Class of 2021
They also shared advice for the current parents in attendance for how they can support their students as they navigate high school and the transition to college.
"A lot of high schoolers see college as the main goal, but I see college as just the beginning, a stepping stone. Encourage your students to pursue their passions and explore their interests. High school at Stanford OHS is a great chance to learn, explore, and go deeper." - Catherine Yeo, Stanford OHS Class of 2017
"Take a step back and let your kids do what they want to do. I was encouraged to have my own opinions and had the support and respect to do what I want. I love that Stanford OHS gave me so much free time and freedom to navigate my way." - Reneesmee Kuo, Stanford OHS Class of 2018
Overall, the alums felt nostalgic, grateful, and fortunate to have attended Stanford Online High School.
“We came to Stanford OHS because of the instructors and academics, but I also was encouraged to take mental health days and explore extracurriculars and join clubs. Stanford OHS gave me friends, and helped me find people who were interested in the same things and had the same values. I found my community. - Varsha Venkatram, Stanford OHS Class of 2021