PLAINVIEW — Garrett DeYong, a third-year Math and Computer Science major at Wayland Baptist University, had a summer to remember as he participated in the prestigious Scholarship and Christianity in Oxford program.
A four-week academic initiative offered through the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities, SCIO welcomed DeYong and other honors students from across the globe to study at Oxford, one of the world’s most renowned academic institutions.
DeYong, a participant of Wayland's Honors Program, discovered the SCIO opportunity through Dr. Niler Pyeatt, Professor of History and Director of the Honors Program. Intrigued by the program’s rigorous academic offerings and cultural immersion, DeYong applied last winter and was accepted.
“I thought it was interesting, so I tried to apply,” DeYong recalled. “It was a good learning experience to see how they teach at Oxford. Even though it’s not directly related to my major, it was valuable knowledge to gain.”
During his time in the program, DeYong enrolled in two seminar-style courses: “Creative Writing” and “Faith and Reason in the British Enlightenment,” a philosophy class exploring intellectual themes from that era. Both courses challenged him to think deeply and engage in Oxford’s unique tutorial teaching model, which emphasizes one-on-one discussions and essay-based learning.
“One of the highlights was writing essays and then defending them in individual sessions with the instructors,” DeYong said. “It was very different from the way we’re taught here, and it was an incredibly stimulating intellectual environment.”
Beyond academics, the program included field trips that offered a glimpse into the historical and cultural richness of England. Participants visited the Cotswolds, Portsmouth, and the iconic Stonehenge, each trip leaving a lasting impression on DeYong.
“The field trips were definitely a highlight,” he shared. “The Cotswolds had beautiful pastoral scenery, and Stonehenge was incredible. Portsmouth was fascinating, with its historic ships and maritime history.”
Though the four-week program was intensive, DeYong appreciated the balance of rigorous study and exploration. For him, Oxford itself was an unexpected delight. “The city is picturesque and lively, with so much history and charm,” he said. “It was amazing to just live there for a while and experience life in a different part of the world.”
This experience marked DeYong’s first trip abroad, and it left him with more than just academic enrichment. He discovered a deep appreciation for English culture, especially its food. “The food in Oxford was fantastic,” he said. “Even the fast food was handmade and had so much variety. I loved trying different cultural dishes.”
Reflecting on the program, DeYong expressed gratitude for the opportunity and encouragement for others to pursue similar experiences. “If I could do it again, I absolutely would,” he said. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to grow both academically and personally.”
As he looks toward the future, DeYong remains focused on his studies at Wayland, planning to complete his Honors thesis, graduate, and eventually pursue a career in math or computer science. While his path may not directly align with philosophy or creative writing, his summer at Oxford has given him a broader perspective and skills that will serve him well in any field.
Dr. Pyeatt commended DeYong for his enthusiasm and dedication. “Garrett’s participation in the SCIO program reflects the high caliber of students in Wayland’s Honors Program,” Dr. Pyeatt said. “It’s an opportunity to enhance their academic journey and also inspire personal growth and a global perspective.”
For DeYong, the SCIO program was more than an academic achievement; it was an unforgettable chapter in his life. “I’m so glad I made the decision to go,” he said. “It was an experience I’ll carry with me forever.”
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