The SATs can be very stressful and overwhelming for students here at South. Many students view the SAT as yet another source of stress and anxiety for them regarding school and their futures, why is this?
Some colleges are now becoming test-optional, meaning you do not have to share your scores with them as part of the application process. Luke Parent ‘26 agrees with this idea.
“I think that it’s a good idea that some schools have gone test-optional,” Parent said. “If you have really good grades and extracurriculars but not good test scores, you don’t have to submit them and get penalized for them.” Parent said.
In addition, Assistant Vice Principal Dr. Daniel Hyliard’s opinion depends on what point of view he is looking from.
“The SAT for South plays a big factor in our ranking and how we’re recognized as a high school,” Hyliard said. “Based on my personal belief, I don’t think the test identifies the character and work ethic of a student.”
Recently, SATs have been switched to being taken online rather than on paper. Having the test on the computer is a lot more efficient for the people who set it up. Assistant Vice Principal Dr. Daniel Hyliard is responsible for setting up the SATs. Hyliard shares his thoughts on the transition from paper to online tests.
“I don’t have to count tests,” Hyliard said. “After testing, I don’t have to mail anything back, so it’s a lot easier running the tests.”
However, many students, such as Violet Lincicome ’26, would rather take it on paper.
“I prefer testing on paper because I don’t like looking at a computer for long periods of time,” Lincicome said. “I don’t feel as awake when I am taking the test, staring at a screen.”
transition:
“I prefer to take it on the computer because it feels a lot easier to finish than it did when it was on paper,” Parent said.
Taking the SAT multiple times is something that is highly recommended by admin because it increases your chances of receiving a higher score. Most colleges will look at whatever attempt you got the highest score on.
“My recommendation is starting to study after taking the PSAT of your junior year and taking the SAT once in December or January, once in the spring and maybe one more time in the summer,” Hyliard said.
To support this point made by the assistant princ
iple, students such as Lincicome have spoken out about their plans to take the test more than once.
“I plan on taking it again in the summer to get the best score possible,” Lincicome says.
Many students experience stress when preparing for the SAT, so it can be helpful to create a study plan and establish a timeline for when you will take the exam.
“I personally think the stress leading up to the SAT is worse than the test itself,” Lincicome said.
