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Top of the class

A taste of Cambridge during the summer

This Hernando Christian Academy student got ready for ninth-grade by taking British history and introduction to law in England.

By MATHEW WASSERMAN
Published October 13, 2005

At the end of last school year, Hernando Christian Academy ninth-grader Haley Sasser got a letter from the guidance office inviting her to study abroad at the University of Cambridge in England over the summer.

"I was really excited when I got the letter," said Sasser. "I knew it would be a great experience."

Although the Cambridge Prep Experience is not sponsored by Hernando Christian Academy, the school works in conjunction with any offers to expand its students' experiences, and chooses students who will get the most out of the trips.

"We look for our top students who have the intellectual capacity to succeed and are real go-getters who will embrace this opportunity," said academic coordinator Andrea Rinard. "Haley is one of our bright young stars who has the right kind of personality for this."

Although personality goes a long way, Sasser also proved she has the academic ability to make her school proud.

"The classes I took were British history and introduction to law," said Sasser. "And they really made us feel like we were in college for the courses. We stayed in Trinity Hall and really got the college experience."

Rinard said that private school students sometimes live in a smaller circle than other students, so any chance to expand their social experiences is well worth it.

"Travel is one of the best ways to broaden your horizon," Rinard said, "especially for private school students who have a smaller social circle. She had never traveled before, and this gave her an opportunity to meet people from all over the country. It also let her be out on her own. Without Mom and Dad being there, she really had to show some responsibility."

Two Hernando Christian students went on the 31/2-week trip this summer, and Sasser said they both loved it and look forward to doing something similar in the future.

"I had such a great time," Sasser said. "I would really love to go overseas for the summer again."

[Last modified October 13, 2005, 01:11:19]