In The Schools: The Dreaded SAT

Jessica Poitevien's advice to other students regarding the test that students throughout the country must take for college admissions.

The Dreaded SAT

An editorial posted June 20, 2007.

By Jessica Poitevien

Jessica is a senior at Burbank Sr. High School. She is editor of the news and arts section for her school newspaper, The Burbank Bulldog.

Students throughout the country must take the SAT for college admissions. Here is one student’s advice to others regarding this test. 

All around you pencils are tapping, legs are bouncing, strands of hair are being pulled out of place and people are sighing out of frustration. In other words, you’re taking the SAT. Well, I may be a little overdramatic, but without a doubt the SAT will be one of the most nerve-racking tests you take in your high school career. So much emphasis is put on this test that your nerves can get in the way of you performing to the best of your abilities. I know the SAT is an important test, but everybody taking it needs to learn to relax before they can do well.  

I took the SAT in March and I was definitely anxious, but it wasn’t a paralyzing fear. Unlike many of the people having meltdowns around me, I was able to control my nerves because I felt prepared. If you plan on taking the SAT, you MUST be prepared! You may be thinking, Wow, way to state the obvious, but you would be surprised how many people do not prepare themselves or wait until a week or two before the test to start studying. Do not procrastinate; it takes a few months to be truly prepared.  

There are many ways to get ready for the SAT. In my opinion, while a private tutor can be a good way to go, there are numerous free and low-cost resources available to help prepare you for the test. These resources include online test preparation and practice tests which can be found at the College Board website or even third-party sources like Number2.com. Most important, you must be sure to make time to study on your own. Find what prep materials work for you. For example, I am a visual learner so vocabulary flash cards with pictures were very effective for me. There are a wide variety of resources available for SAT preparation so try to make use of everything that helps you.  

Another key to relaxing on the day of the SAT is your attitude about the test. Many people feel that their score on the SAT is the deciding factor of college acceptance. This is simply untrue. While the SAT is an important factor, it is not the only aspect of an application that admission counselors consider. Remembering that simple fact about the SAT will give you a new perspective and help you to relax.  

For all the overachievers out there, you must stop with the self imposed pressure to score a 2000. Instead of going into the test room thinking, I have to get a 2000 or I won’t get into the school of my dreams, think, I am going to do my best. There is no need to put so much pressure on yourself and doing so actually hinders your chances of doing your best. I know it’s not easy because I am an overachiever myself, but calming your nerves is one of the most important steps to success. 

The SAT is an intimidating test, but don’t let that get to you. It is possible to conquer your nerves and get through the test. I may not be an SAT expert, but from my experience being prepared and having the right mindset about the test can help tremendously. Just breathe, relax, and have confidence in your abilities.