This is all kinda interesting. My instructor has had me take off and land eight times yesterday and say he wants to do about 50 more or so. He also wants to get down loops and rolls. Personally, I can do those along with the figure eights. My only guess is that he wants me to be very proficient and consistent. For example today, I landed in a hell of a crosswind.

I don't think I'm being held back or anything but it appears that when you're ready to go own your own depends on the instructor.