What Our Students Say About OCAAT

Amy McDonald, sociology and psychology

"In class, it's nice not to have to just meet for an hour and then abruptly cut off discussion so we can all run to our next class. I also feel like OCAAT closely resembles the working environment where deadlines are never far away and time management is a must."

Darius Ballard, biology and secondary education

"OCAAT is one of the major reasons why my education major worked so well for me. Because I could focus on one class, while still knowing that classes are over at 3:00, I was able to be very involved in campus activities and still keep up with my classwork. I also was allowed to get to know my practicum teacher very well because of the schedule and he became my mentor teacher for student teaching."

Amanda Hauser, biochemistry and molecular biology; women's studies

"OCAAT's flexibility allows you to completely immerse yourself in one area, while allowing you to take a month-long class anywhere in the world. In my case, I was able to study in Italy in May and then participate in an internship in Los Angeles during September. I truly believe my college career would not have been complete without these experiences."

Parker Reynolds, theatre and communications studies; econcomics and business

“I found that I could double major easily with the flexibility of OCAAT. I took courses in many fields, trying to find a second major. I took sociology, English, and philosophy, before planning on economics and business.”

Evan Eakins, mathematics and classical studies

"What I found is that OCAAT is the reason to come here. The time management it teaches you will let you have plenty of time for outside life. I have developed work habits that I never would have had otherwise."

Morgan Fykes, psychology; economics and business

"In high school, I would often do well when classes first started but then lose focus and fade in the end. With OCAAT, I can maintain my intense focus for a month and succeed in my classes."

Phil Bilderback, biochemistry and molecular biology

"Studying at the University of Massachusetts has been a great experience and OCAAT made it possible.  I was able to leave 9th block for Massachusetts and begin a summer research program in Cell Biology at UMass med school.  By skipping 9th block I was able to receive course credit for my efforts over the summer.  Here is where I get to practice hands-on techniques that are used in the real practice of science."

Laura Allis, history

"OCAAT allows me to focus -- I don't have to worry about having multiple tests or papers due on the same day. If I am enjoying the subject I get to focus on it completely for a month, and yet if it's not my favorite class it's over in a month. Plus, four days off every month is great!"