Master Punctuation
October 23, 2024Get Smarter Prep

Master Punctuation in the ACT English Section

When it comes to the ACT English section, punctuation is more than just dots and squiggles – it’s the backbone of clear communication! Here’s a breakdown of the key punctuation rules and tips to help you ace this part of the test.Punctuation

1. Commas: The Pause Button

Commas are used to:

  • Separate items in a list.
  • Connect two independent clauses with a conjunction (e.g., and, but, for).
  • Set off introductory elements and non-essential information.

Example:

  • Correct: “She bought apples, oranges, and bananas.”
  • Incorrect: “She bought apples oranges and bananas.”

2. Semicolons: The Middle Ground

Semicolons are the heavy hitters, used to:

  • Link two closely related independent clauses without a conjunction.
  • Separate complex list items that contain commas.

Example:

  • Correct: “I have a big test tomorrow; I can’t go out tonight.”
  • Incorrect: “I have a big test tomorrow, I can’t go out tonight.”

3. Colons: The Introduction

Colons introduce lists, explanations, or quotes:

  • Place a colon after an independent clause when introducing a list.
  • Use a colon to separate two clauses when the second explains the first.

Example:

  • Correct: “She has two favorite hobbies: reading and painting.”
  • Incorrect: “She has two favorite hobbies, reading and painting.”

4. Apostrophes: The Possessive and Contractive

Apostrophes indicate possession or create contractions:

  • For possession: “The dog’s leash was lost.”
  • For contractions: “It’s raining outside” (it is).

Example:

  • Correct: “James’s book was interesting.”
  • Incorrect: “James’ book was interesting.”

5. Dashes and Hyphens: Clarification and Connection

Dashes add emphasis or set off information:

  • En dash (–) for ranges: “Read pages 10–20.”
  • Em dash (—) for emphasis: “The result—unexpectedly—was positive.”

Hyphens connect compound words:

  • Example: “A well-known author”

Final Tips

  • Read Aloud: When in doubt, read the sentence aloud. Punctuation often mimics natural pauses and intonations in speech.
  • Know the Rules: Brush up on grammar rules specific to ACT English.
  • Practice, Practice, Practice: Familiarize yourself with punctuation through practice tests and quizzes. The best place to begin is with a FREE, In-Person Practice Test offered every Saturday morning at both our Leawood and Prairie Village locations.
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12th Grade: Your Blueprint towards College Success
September 18, 2024Get Smarter Prep

A Blueprint to College Success

A blueprint to college success. As a high school senior, the college application process can be a daunting task, but we’ve got your back! With the right guidance and organization, you can navigate this journey smoothly and effectively. We know how busy students are their senior year, so to help you stay on track and ensure a successful application process, here is a step-by-step guide to follow.

September – November

  • Finalize Your College List: Take the time to confirm your top choices, application deadlines, and specific requirements for each school you wish to apply to.
  • Craft Supplemental Essays: Tailor your essays to each college’s unique prompts, showcasing your individuality and fit for the institution.
  • Seek Expert Review: Have a trusted advisor or professional review your Common Application and personal statement to ensure they are polished and compelling.
  • Research Scholarships: Identify scholarships that align with your interests and qualifications, noting deadlines and any additional requirements.
  • Schedule Interviews: Set up on-campus or local representative interviews with your preferred colleges to make a positive impression.
  • Communicate with Recommenders: Update your Letter of Recommendation Questionnaire and request letters from teachers and counselors who know you well.
  • Apply for Scholarships: Begin applying for scholarships throughout the school year to increase your chances of securing financial aid.
  • Financial Aid Preparation (for Parents): Help your parents start gathering necessary documents and creating a financial aid deadlines list for a smooth application process.

November – December

  • Early Admission and Early Decision: Submit all applications by late October to meet early admission and early decision deadlines.
  • Portfolio-Based Programs: If you are applying to arts programs, make sure to meet the December 1st deadlines.
  • Meet with Counselor: Discuss your college list, application deadlines, and any questions with your school counselor to receive valuable guidance.
  • Attend High School Presentations: Participate in college-related events and presentations to gather additional information.
  • Financial Aid Applications: Complete the FAFSA and CSS/PROFILE (if required) to apply for financial aid.
  • Final College Visits: Visit your top college choices to get a feel for the campus and make an informed decision.
  • Submit Test Scores: Send your test scores to colleges, ensuring they accept self-reported scores if applicable.
  • Deliver Letters and Transcripts: Request your school counseling office to send required documents, such as letters of recommendation and transcripts, to colleges promptly.

January – March

  • Deferred Applications: If your application is deferred, follow up with the admissions representative with an email reaffirming your interest and providing updates.
  • Await Decisions: Monitor your applications and patiently wait for college decisions to come in.
  • College Choice: Upon acceptance, plan visits to your top choices and attend any admitted student events to get a firsthand experience.
  • Evaluate Financial Aid: Compare financial aid packages and scholarship offers to determine the best way to finance your education.
  • Enroll and Submit Deposit: Enroll in your chosen college and submit a deposit by May 1st to secure your spot.
  • Notify School Counselor: Keep your counselor informed of your college decisions and any scholarship opportunities you receive.
  • Waitlist: If you find yourself on a waitlist, send a follow-up email expressing your continued interest and providing any relevant updates.

April – August

  • Campus Housing: Sign up for on-campus housing if it’s something you’re interested in.
  • Save for College: Continue saving for college expenses to ensure you’re financially prepared.
  • Waitlist Notifications: Keep an eye on your email for any updates regarding waitlist offers.
  • Orientation Sessions: Attend orientation sessions to get acquainted with the campus and your future student life.
  • Meal Plans and Class Registration: Sign up for meal plans and register for classes to streamline your campus experience.
  • Dorm Preparation: Gather all necessary items for your dorm room and classes to start the semester prepared.
  • Roommate Contact: Reach out to your future roommate(s) to start building a positive relationship.
  • Travel and Move-In Arrangements: Make arrangements for travel and move-in to ensure a smooth transition.
  • Scholarship Applications: Don’t forget to continue applying for scholarships to ease the financial burden of college.
  • Academic Advisor Meeting: Schedule a meeting with an academic advisor to discuss your course plan and ensure you’re on the right track academically.

By following this comprehensive checklist, staying organized, and taking each step one by one, you can successfully navigate the college application process and make informed decisions about your college career. Good luck on your journey to college!

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Navigating Your Junior Year
August 28, 2024Get Smarter Prep

Navigating Your Junior Year

As an 11th grader, you’re entering a pivotal year in your academic journey. The college application process is looming, and it’s essential to stay organized and proactive. Here’s a roadmap to help you navigate this exciting time:

Academic Focus

  • Maintain Consistency: If your values and priorities haven’t changed, stick to your extracurricular activities. However, if they have, don’t be afraid to try something new.
  • Deepen Interests: Explore and develop your passions within your chosen activities. Consider taking on a leadership role to enhance your skills.
  • Start Your College Search: Attend local college fairs and college admissions rep presentations at your high school.
  • Create a College List: Begin compiling a preliminary list of colleges based on your college match searches. Schedule family meetings to plan college visits throughout the year.
  • Prioritize Grades: Remember that junior year grades are crucial for college admissions.
  • Challenge Yourself: Continue to push yourself academically by taking AP or honors classes.
  • Self-Assessment: Take an aptitude or career assessment to gain insights into your interests and strengths.
  • Set Goals: Meet up with your counselor to discuss your college interests. Share your preferences and seek their recommendations.
  • Track Progress: Keep your activity log updated to showcase your involvement.

Athletics

  • NCAA/NAIA Registration: If you’re considering college sports, register for the NCAA Clearinghouse or NAIA Eligibility Center.
  • Understand NCAA Requirements: Familiarize yourself with NCAA eligibility requirements to ensure your courses align.
  • Inform Your Counselor: Let your counselor know about your athletic aspirations.

Testing

  • Consult with our Tutors: If you’re unsure about which tests to take or when, our tutors can help you or talk to your counselor.
  • Take a Practice Test: The best place to begin is with a practice test. Establish a baseline score with a practice ACT/SAT and create a testing timeline.
  • Test Only If: You’re currently enrolled in Algebra II. Even then, wait until December to take a practice test. The math section on the ACT is about 50% Algebra II content.

Stay on Track

  • Keep studying: Adhere to your ACT/SAT testing timeline and study schedule.
  • Register for Senior Year: Ensure a strong senior year course load, but keep in mind, just because you can take every advanced class available doesn’t mean you should. It’s important to find the right balance between what will challenge you and where you’ll be successful.
  • Visit Colleges: Sample different types of schools to find the best fit.
  • Build Your College List: Consider your values and research when creating your college list.
  • Research Scholarships: Explore scholarship opportunities.
  • Request Letters of Recommendation: Obtain letters of recommendation from one or two junior year teachers.
  • Research Applications: Understand the application requirements for each school.
  • Create a Common App Account: The summer before your senior year, you can create an account and explore the application to see what questions you’ll be asked. Complete general components before the application opens on August 1st.
  • Organize Information: Create a spreadsheet to track admission requirements, deadlines, and interview information.

      Remember to stay organized, proactive, and passionate throughout this process. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the college application journey successfully. If you need help with the process, please let us know. Our college counselors will help make the process more seamless.

       

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      Sophomore Slump
      August 20, 2024Get Smarter Prep

      Sophomore Slump? Not a Chance!

      You’ve made it through the whirlwind of freshman year, and now you’re a sophomore! This is a crucial time for growth and development, both personally and academically. It’s a year to explore your passions, challenge yourself, and start laying the groundwork for your future.

      So, how do you make the most of your sophomore year?

      Self-Discovery and Goal Setting

      • Self Check: Take some time to reflect on what truly matters to you. Your passions, values, and goals might have evolved since last year.
      • Align Your Actions: Once you’ve identified your priorities, make sure your extracurricular activities and academic pursuits align with them. This will help you stay motivated and fulfilled.
      • Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Trying new things is a great way to discover hidden talents and interests. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself!

      Academic Excellence

      • Prioritize Your Studies: While extracurriculars are important, maintaining strong grades is essential. Your sophomore year grades matter to college admissions officers.
      • Challenge Yourself: Take advantage of honors or AP courses in subjects you enjoy. This will not only boost your GPA but also prepare you for college-level work.
      • Test Prep: Consider taking a FREE Practice test if are currently enrolled in Algebra II. Establish a baseline score, and determine which test date to focus on and how best to prepare.
      • Summer Enrichment: Keep your brain active during the summer with reading, volunteering, or pursuing a passion project.

      College Planning

      • Explore Your Options: Visit colleges, attend college fairs, and research potential majors and careers. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to make informed decisions.
      • Build Relationships: Maintain a strong relationship with your school counselor. They can provide invaluable guidance on course selection and college planning.
      • Financial Planning: Start thinking about how you’ll pay for college. Research scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities.

      Athletics

      If you’re considering playing college sports, it’s important to get started early. Register for the NCAA or NAIA, familiarize yourself with those requirements, and let your counselor know of your aspirations.

      Remember, your sophomore year is a building block for your future. By focusing on personal growth, academic excellence, and college preparation, you’ll be well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

      Need more guidance? Get Smarter Prep is here to help you navigate this exciting stage of your life. Contact us today to learn more about our tutoring, test prep, and college counseling services.

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      9th Grade: Build your Foundation for Success
      August 6, 2024Get Smarter Prep

      9th Grade: Build Your Foundation for Success

      Discover Your Potential

      • Self-Discovery: Take a personality assessment. Uncover your core values and personality strengths in order to drive self-awareness.
      • Explore Your Passions: Dive into extracurricular activities that align with your values and strengths. From clubs and sports to community service and arts, find what ignites your passion.
      • Chart Your Course: Take an interest assessment to explore potential college majors and careers. Our assessment not only takes into account the student’s interests and behavioral traits, it also takes into account the student’s verbal and numerical abilities to help ensure the best match possible. Use this insight to plan your high school classes.

      Build Essential Skills

      • Time Management and Study Skills: Develop effective strategies to balance academics, extracurriculars, and personal life. Get Smarter Prep can provide valuable resources.
      • Summer Enrichment: Choose a summer experience that aligns with your interests. Whether it’s a volunteer project, internship, or academic program, expand your horizons.
      • GPA: Start off Freshman year as best as you can. Set a strong foundation for your high school career.

      Create Your Roadmap

      • Track Your Journey: Maintain an activity log to document extracurricular involvement, awards, and accomplishments. This will be invaluable for college applications. Get Smarter Prep has an activity log if needed.
      • Seek Guidance: Meet with your school counselor regularly to discuss course selection, extracurricular opportunities, and college planning.
      • Family Involvement: Parents, explore college savings options and research financial aid opportunities.
      • Athlete Alert: If you’re an athlete, familiarize yourself with NCAA and NAIA recruiting guidelines. Make sure to sign up for camps along the way.

      Expand Your World

      • Summer Reading: Immerse yourself in books to broaden your vocabulary and perspectives.

      By following this checklist and utilizing Get Smarter Prep’s resources, you’ll lay a strong foundation for high school success and beyond. Let us know how our tutors and college counselors can help along the way.

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      What to expect from Get Smarter Prep
      July 31, 2024Get Smarter Prep

      What to expect from Get Smarter Prep

      What to expect from Get Smarter Prep? Choosing the right ACT prep company for your student can be a daunting task. With so many options available, how can you determine which one will best meet your student’s unique needs and learning style?

      Get Smarter Prep stands out as a premier choice, renowned for its personalized and flexible approach to test preparation, particularly for the ACT. By focusing on the individual strengths and weaknesses of each student, we craft customized study plans that adapt to varying schedules and learning preferences. Here are some key points to consider when evaluating whether Get Smarter Prep is the right fit for your student:

      Personalized Approach:

      We focus on one-on-one tutoring, tailoring our services to the student’s specific needs and strengths. This can be particularly beneficial for addressing individual areas of weakness and developing a customized study plan. For students who enjoy more of a classroom feel, we offer small group classes including our ACT Advanced and President’s Course.

      Experienced Tutors:

      We employ tutors who are experienced and have strong backgrounds in standardized test preparation. This expertise can provide valuable insights and strategies for improving test performance. With three different levels of tutors, depending on the length of time they’ve tutored with GSP, including Standard, Master, and Premier Level Tutors.

      Flexible Scheduling:

      We offer flexible scheduling options for every test date, which can be advantageous for students with busy or varying schedules. This flexibility can make it easier to fit test prep into a busy routine.

      Positive Reviews:

      Many students and parents report positive experiences with us, noting improvements in scores and overall satisfaction with our tutoring services. Look us up on Google and see for yourself.

      Resources and Materials:

      The very best place to begin gauging how to approach the ACT is with a practice test, which we offer every Saturday morning free of charge. We also provide a range of study materials and resources, including practice tests and review sessions, which can help students prepare more effectively.

      Cost:

      As with many test prep services, the cost can vary. Get Smarter Prep offers free consultations called Scorebacks, so we can assess the students’ specific needs, understand their goals, timeline, and find a good fit for their situation. Our pricing is completely transparent with no hidden fees or surprises. Families can easily find all our rates on our website.

      Timeline:

      It’s always a good idea to have an initial consultation with one of our tutors to discuss your student’s specific needs, comprehend their objectives, and decide together which ACT test date makes the most sense for them. Typically, anywhere from 8-12 weeks prior to the test date is when students should begin test preparation.

      Location:

      Get Smarter Prep has two locations throughout the Kansas City metro to make it more convenient for students to choose from. Our Leawood office is located near 135th and Nall, and our Prairie Village is near 75th and Nall.

      The best approach is to speak directly to one of our staff or tutors to discuss your student’s specific needs, find the best approach to ACT prep, and find out about our pricing and availability. Contact us to help your student reach their ACT goals.

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      The ACT is changing
      July 17, 2024Get Smarter Prep

      The ACT is Changing

      The ACT just announced some major changes coming to the test! Based on the feedback from students, educators, and experts, ACT is making the test more flexible and manageable for students. What does that mean?

      More Flexibility for Students

      Students now have more control over how they take the ACT. The English, reading, and math sections will still be the core of the test, but the science section is now optional. This means students can choose to take:

      • The ACT (English, reading, math)
      • The ACT plus Science
      • The ACT plus Writing
      • The ACT plus Science and Writing

      This flexibility allows students to showcase their strengths and focus on the areas that matter most to them and their college choices. Don’t worry, the familiar score reporting system is still here. The score will be an average of the English, reading, and math sections (if you take science, it won’t be included in your core score) on the same 1-36 scale. Students can also still choose between taking the test online or with paper and pencil.

      A Shorter, More Focused Test

      One major complaint is that most students feel the ACT is longer than any other test, and they aren’t wrong!  ACT.org has reduced the length of the test by up to one-third. The new core test will take just two hours, compared to three hours previously. This is achieved by including shorter Reading and English passages, and reducing the total number of questions by 44, from (possibly) 175 to 131. With more time per question, students can focus on answering thoughtfully and avoid feeling rushed. The flip side of this is that each question now has more effect on the score, with small mistakes having a greater effect.

      Changes to the ACT

      These Changes Start Soon

      The updated ACT will be available for online testing for the April 2025 administration, with the paper-based exams making the switch for the September 2025 exam.

      Initial Review of the Data (without the Science score)

      From our preliminary data, it appears 30.65% of our recent students would have seen an increase in their composite score without the Science section, 47.74% would not have seen a change, and 21.61% of students would have actually scored lower. 91.71% of students would have scored within one point of the actual score. 5.28% would have improved their composite score by two points, 2.76% would have scored two points worse, and .25% of students would have seen an improvement of three points without the Science score factored into their Composite.

      *Note: This information is only applicable to a much smaller sub-set of overall students AND this doesn’t take into account the shorter English, Math, and Reading sections that will be rolled out with this change. Generally speaking, we expect about 50% of students to score the same with a quarter of students scoring better and a quarter of students scoring worse.

      Our Commitment to You

      Get Smarter Prep is committed to meeting the needs of students no matter how many changes test makers implement throughout the years. Our tutors are constantly evolving to make the ACT/SAT click for every student. We go beyond content, focusing on test-taking strategies to build confidence and achieve the score they need for the school they want.

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      Streamlined GRE
      June 18, 2024Get Smarter Prep

      Streamlined GRE: What to Expect on the Test

      Streamlined GRE: What to Expect on the Test

      The Educational Testing Service (ETS) went through a major update to the GRE General Test. The GRE is now significantly shorter, taking less than 2 hours to complete. This revamped GRE is designed to be the most efficient option yet for graduate, business, and law school admissions. Here’s a breakdown of the changes:

      • Shorter Test: The streamlined format cuts testing time in half, making the experience less stressful and more manageable.
      • Maintained Quality: Don’t worry, the shorter test doesn’t compromise quality. ETS assures test takers and institutions that the updated GRE continues to deliver the same valid and reliable scores you’ve come to expect.
      • Faster Scores: Official scores will now be delivered in just 8-10 days, allowing you to submit applications and meet deadlines with less waiting.
      • Streamlined Content: The revision includes the removal of the “Analyze an Argument” task in the Analytical Writing section, a reduction in the number of questions in both Verbal and Quantitative Reasoning sections, and the elimination of the unscored section.

      These changes mark just the beginning of a series of planned updates for the GRE General Test. Let’s review what the GRE is and what’s its covering.

      The GRE is designed to assess your readiness for the rigors of graduate programs. It focuses on foundational skills developed over time, rather than specific areas of study. Here’s a closer look at the three key areas the GRE measures:

      • Verbal Reasoning: This section tests your ability to analyze text, identify key points, understand different meanings (literal, figurative, etc.), and draw conclusions from what you read. Essentially, it gauges how well you can interpret and reason through written information.
      • Quantitative Reasoning: This section focuses on basic math skills and concepts you’ll likely remember from high school or early college – algebra, arithmetic, geometry, and data analysis. The key here is applying these concepts to solve problems and interpret quantitative information. Good news: you’ll have an on-screen calculator to assist you.
      • Analytical Writing: This section evaluates your critical thinking and analytical writing abilities. You’ll be tasked with crafting essays that demonstrate your capacity to articulate complex ideas clearly, support them with evidence, and maintain a focused, organized discussion. This section is essentially a writing sample for grad schools to assess your written communication skills.
      Test structure of GRE
      Test structure of GRE

      Remember, the GRE is all about showcasing the long-term development of your critical thinking, analytical writing, and reasoning skills. By understanding the test content and what each section measures, you can approach your GRE prep with a focused strategy and conquer those grad school applications.

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      Optimizing Test Prep Strategies for the Class of 2026
      June 12, 2024Get Smarter Prep

      Optimizing Test Prep Strategies for the Class of 2026

      As the Class of 2026 navigates their way through the intricate world of college admissions, one of the key decisions they face is which standardized tests to prepare for – the ACT, SAT, or PSAT. Understanding the nuances of each exam and crafting a strategic approach to preparation can significantly impact their success. Here, we outline tailored recommendations to guide students effectively:

      1. Focus on One Test:

      We strongly advise students to concentrate their efforts on either the ACT or the SAT/PSAT. Attempting to juggle preparation for both can lead to a diffusion of energy and resources, potentially compromising performance on both exams.

      1. Emphasize ACT Preparation:

      During the current landscape characterized by a scarcity of quality SAT materials and the significant challenges introduced by the revamped SAT in March of this year, our recommendation stands firm: prioritize preparation for the ACT. Resources for the ACT are more abundant and well-established, offering students a clearer path to readiness.

      1. Leveraging PSAT Prep for SAT Success:

      For students interested in preparing for the PSAT, we suggest aligning preparation efforts with the November SAT. The content, structure, and question types are quite similar on the two, so it only makes sense to continue preparing in the same direction for an official SAT. Don’t spend time on the ACT, per #1.

      1. Sequential Preparation Approach:

      If students opt not to follow the initial recommendation, we discourage simultaneous preparation for the ACT and PSAT/SAT. Instead, we propose a sequential approach, with ACT preparation taking precedence during the summer months, followed by PSAT preparation post-September 14th ACT, leading up to the PSAT at school on October 11th.

      1. Strive for Excellence:

      Before embarking on PSAT preparation, we advise students to target a score in the 95th percentile on practice tests. The true value of PSAT performance lies in the opportunities for scholarships and recognition associated with achieving scores in the 99th percentile.

      Tailored Guidance:

      It’s important to recognize that each student’s journey is unique, and their specific goals will influence the path they choose to follow. Our recommendations serve as a framework to inform decision-making, but individualized guidance based on personal goals and circumstances is important.

      By adopting a strategic approach to standardized test preparation, students of the Class of 2026 can navigate the complexities of the admissions process with confidence and clarity.

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      Class of 2020
      June 7, 2024Get Smarter Prep

      To The Class of 2027

      Your Sophomore Year is most likely going to be awesome!  You may start to think about college in the aspect that it’s not too far away and you have to start to prepare soon, but nothing really has to be done right now…right?!?  Actually, now is the perfect time to start taking action steps towards college.  Here are five tangible goals to achieve your sophomore year: Continue to do well in school, take as many AP classes as possible, join clubs and sports teams that interest you (don’t sign-up for everything!), develop a list of potential colleges you would like to attend, and lastly, take a practice ACT or SAT test. Let’s further break down those steps.

      Step One: Continue to do well in school. This one seems like a no-brainer, right? Well, some high school sophomores seem to fall into a slump often pegged, “the sophomore slump”.  Students find their stride as sophomores and are content with their classes, schedule, and homework levels.  Some students tend to hit cruise control and coast through the year. After all, everyone knows you take the ACT/SAT next year and get “really serious” about looking at colleges as a Junior. Not true. Now is the time to focus on your grades to build the foundation you’ve already set as a freshman. Sophomores need to at least maintain, if not improve their grades to set the standard for the rest of their high school career.

      Step Two: Take as many AP classes as possible. Taking AP classes is a great way to beef up your high school resume and challenge you throughout your high school career. These college-level classes are a great way to gain experience that colleges will recognize on your high school transcript. If you can maintain a good grade in these rigorous classes they are worth it.  However, if you find they are bringing down your grades, which will lead to a lower grade point average, then it may not be worth your time.  Know your limits and decide if it’s right for you.

      Step Three: Join clubs and sports teams that interest you.  Let me preface, I didn’t say sign up for every club and sports team imaginable.  Only sign up for ones that you are genuinely interested in and you will enjoy. If you sign up for everything, you will get burned out, especially if you are keeping your grades up and challenging yourself with AP classes.  Start an activity resume you can use in a college interview and applications process. Activities are an intricate part of athletic recruiting and fine arts opportunities. Don’t be afraid to join a club that isn’t well-known or popular. If that’s what piques your interest, go ahead and join! Colleges will find a lesser-known club perhaps more interesting than a well-known club half of the college applicants are a part of. Stay interesting!

      Step Four: Develop a list of potential colleges you would like to attend.  Start with local colleges, state colleges, ivy-league colleges, or just a college based on location! The point is to start looking to see which schools you may be interested in. Many factors play into deciding on a college that’s right for you, such as a college major, size of college, location of college, religious beliefs, your own ACT/SAT score and/or GPA. Create a list that is both realistic and challenging for you.  Resist the urge to settle for a school that’s so-so.  As a sophomore, you have time to increase your GPA, study for the ACT/SAT, take AP classes, and join clubs, but if you don’t have a list of potential colleges, what’s the point of working so diligently?

      Step Five: Take a practice ACT or SAT test.  Get Smarter Prep offers Free Practice Tests every Saturday morning. There is no excuse not to take a practice test.  The purpose of a practice test is to offer a baseline score of where you stand with either the ACT or the SAT. Are you much stronger in the math section than the reading section?  Or do you score evenly in English, Math, Reading, and Science? How do you feel about the timing piece of the test? Did you feel rushed on the ACT, but not the SAT? Are you comfortable with the score you received on the practice test or do you need tutoring? These are all questions we can give you answers to after you take a practice test. Plus, it’s always a bonus to take a practice test before the real deal to become more comfortable and acquainted with the type of questions the test makers are looking for. Sign up for a practice test today.

      Is your sophomore year going to be the best year for you in high school?  Of course we can’t answer that question, but we want you to be aware of the potential your sophomore year has on your college process. Now is the time to start planning for your future. Good luck!

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