School is a time when young people develop the practices and habits that will see them through the rest of their lives. That’s why education at Randolph-Macon Academy is about more than academic excellence; it is about giving our students the building blocks for a successful future in their academic, personal, and professional lives.
Both inside and outside of the classroom, students explore their own potential by taking on new challenges, succeeding and failing, and learning from their mistakes. These experiences are what shape our graduates into confident, resilient, and responsible individuals. Below, find out some of the life skills that an R-MA education delivers.
Encouraging Collaboration at Our Prep School
The ability to work effectively with others is a skill that prepares young people to excel in group projects, university discussions, and professional teams. At R-MA, Each student brings their prior knowledge to the classroom and our teachers give them the space to work together, pose questions and share their ideas to arrive at a more complete understanding of the material. Team sports and other clubs give students the chance to join a community of like-minded individuals who share their passions and support one another to achieve a common goal.
Unique opportunities like Cadre Leadership Training take this experience even further. Cadets work together in small groups, compete in drill events, and prepare to teach new cadets. In the process, they develop effective communication techniques and character traits of selflessness, service, and integrity.
Teaching Responsibility to Students
Attending a private boarding school is a great opportunity for students to strike out on their own and get a taste of independent living. The dorm experience at R-MA serves as an extension of the classroom, teaching students important life skills that will prepare them for the transition into college life.
We provide a safe and structured environment for boarding students that balances study-hour sessions with ample activities and exciting weekend excursions. In this space, boarders learn to juggle their academic responsibilities, personal interests, and social lives, while developing good study habits. The level of responsibility this affords our students sets them up well for the demands of independent college living.
Building Problem-Solving Skills
The rigorous curriculum at our prep school is one that encourages perseverance and problem-solving in our students. They don’t shy away from challenges, but are driven by the prospect of overcoming them. In programs such as Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, and Visual and Performing Arts, students are encouraged to think critically or creatively about the material.
Our more innovative programs – such as Aerospace, Robotics & Computer Science, and Drones – are a chance for students to explore the cutting-edge fields of today. In the context of these industries, students tackle real-world problems and arrive at a more complex understanding of the ever-changing technological world.
Fostering a Growth Mindset
First and foremost, R-MA offers a university preparatory education with a mind for career exploration. We aim to give our students a foundation from which to consider their own interests, strengths and weakness, and goals for the future. This is supported by a mindset known as the Power of Rise. Students learn to take risks, to succeed, to fail. These are valuable lessons that lead to a rewarding sense of accomplishment, even if the outcome is not one originally expected. In the process, students learn that hard work and determination are essential for success, and they commit to putting in that effort to reach their full potential. We believe that this goal-oriented mindset is a trait found within the most successful individuals in our world – one that we encourage R-MA students to develop.
Are you interested in an education at our preparatory school?
Contact Randolph-Macon Academy today!