The SAT Is Changing: Here’s What It Means For You

Prior to entering college, the SAT Reasoning Test is probably the most important exam a student will take in their academic career. Administered by The College Board, the SAT is the most common standardized test required by college admissions committees. A student’s SAT score does not directly determine whether or not they get accepted, but it can often play a significant role in the decision.

Recently, The College Board announced that the SAT was being redesigned for Spring 2016. The changes aren’t drastic, but there are a few things potential test-takers should be aware of:

• The exam will be reverting to the 400- to 1600-point scale (as opposed to the 600-to 2400-point scale)

• There will be three sections to the exam: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, Math, and the Essay

• The length of the exam is approximately three hours, with 50 additional minutes to complete the essay

• There is no longer a penalty for wrong answers, meaning that students ought to answer every question on the exam

• The vocabulary portion will now focus on relative words in context. This will emphasize a proper understanding of more commonly used words, as opposed to lists of obscure terms.

Understanding these key changes is critical for any student hoping to master the exam and gain admission to a top school. Visit the College Board website (www.collegeboard.org) for additional information.

WAYS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR SUMMER - Summer Suggestions for Students

With school now over and summer just around the corner, you are now free!  Yet with freedom comes great responsibility.  Whether you are about to enter college or just finished the spring semester, you have a wonderful opportunity to maximize the long summer months to your advantage.  More than being busy for the sake of being busy, here are some ways to invest in yourself and your future this summer.

TAKE CLASSES

The next couple months can be the perfect opportunity to get some credits under your belt.  You can either take classes at a community college, which is very cost effective compared to regular classes at universities, or even take online classes towards your degree.  You can also take classes on subjects that you want to learn.  It can be a way you can cultivate a strength of yours or even turn a weakness into a strength.  Be proactive in your growth and education during the summer by taking some classes.

VOLUNTEER

One of the greatest ways to gain perspective in life is by volunteering and helping others.  The old adage goes that no one ever loses by giving.  Many students have volunteered at educational centers, soup kitchens, and hospitals.  You can also join a short-term missions trip locally or overseas.  So why not capitalize on your free time by looking for ways to volunteer this summer.

WORK

Getting a job this summer can benefit you in two ways.  First it never hurts to have some spending money during the summer!  And secondly, it will be a way to gain meaningful experience and preparation for the work force.  It will help you be responsible with your time and be disciplined throughout the summer.

INTERNSHIP

As you look ahead to your future, people will be looking to see if you have any career-related experience.  By getting an internship, it will help expose you to different fields and develop a network that can only help you moving forward.  Look for an internship that appeals to you and your passions to see if that really is a career path for you or not.

HAVE FUN

Just because you get an internship or are taking classes doesn’t mean you can’t have fun!  More than what you do, it’s how you do it.  Since these are all ways you are bettering yourself, why not have fun while doing it.  And make sure to schedule in time to spend with your friends and family as well.  Even as you seek to maximize your summer, don’t forget that summer is still summer.  We wish you a fun, safe, and highly productive summer!