Abby deSilva, Author at 91ÁÔĆć /blog/author/abbydesilva/ Prep for Success Thu, 02 Oct 2025 15:20:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 https://assets.testinnovators.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/favicon-85x85.png Abby deSilva, Author at 91ÁÔĆć /blog/author/abbydesilva/ 32 32 5 Things to Think About as You Start Freshman Year /blog/things-to-think-about-as-you-start-freshman-year/ Thu, 02 Oct 2025 15:20:39 +0000 /?p=9660 College may be very far from your mind right now. We ťĺ´Ç˛Ô’t blame you!

You should absolutely be enjoying your freshman year and taking it all in. You also have an opportunity to do your future self a huge favor by starting college prep this year.

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This article was written by our partner, , the College & Career Network. Learn more about our partnership .

Congrats, you’re a high schooler! 🥳

College may be very far from your mind right now. We ťĺ´Ç˛Ô’t blame you!Ěý

You should absolutely be enjoying your freshman year and taking it all in. You also have an opportunity to do your future self a huge favor by starting college prep and career this year.

We’ve got 5 simple things to consider during your freshman year of high school (+2 things for parents/guardians).

5 Things Students Should Do Freshman Year of High School

There’s no pressure to complete all these 9th grade college and career prep to-dos at the same time. Try completing 1 to do every couple ofĚý weeks in your first few months or so of freshman year.Ěý

Before you get started, it wouldn’t hurt to connect with your counselor. Their timeline may differ from what we outline in this blog post! They’ll also be able to provide you with personalized support to help you reach your goals.

1. Commit to Learning

Whether college is something you’re interested in pursuing or not, focusing on learning is always a good way to go during your freshman year of high school. It matters less what classes you’re taking and more about committing yourself to the work.

While you’re a ways off from choosing a college or a major (or choosing a career), it can be helpful to ask yourself some questions to spark self-discovery:

  • Which class do I love the most and why?
  • Which homework is the most bearable for me? Most painful?
  • Which extracurriculars do I enjoy the most and why?

2. Start Getting Involved

Ugh…more work?Ěý

The right extracurriculars won’t feel that way.

Hobbies and activities outside of school and work are a . High school is a great time to explore what you enjoy. Plus, colleges love seeing that you’re involved, trying new things, and leading.

Here are some extracurricular activity ideas:

  • Volunteering
  • Sports
  • Side gigs (like babysitting, mowing lawns, selling your artwork)
  • Clubs and organizations at school
  • Summer camps and programs
  • Learning an instrument

5-10 hours per week on extracurricular activities is a good rule of thumb. But depending on your situation, it can be more or less than that, and that’s okay.

3. Take the PSAT 8/9

If you’re eligible, late freshman year may be a good time to take the (Preliminary SAT). Get in touch with your guidance counselor to see when you should take the test.Ěý

Don’t worry…the PSAT 8/9 isn’t the real thing. There’s no pressure with the PSAT 8/9, because your score won’t be sent to any colleges; it’s simply a way to evaluate where you’re at, and determine which areas need to improve. This gives you plenty of time to choose the best classes for your sophomore and junior years to prepare for the real thing (the SAT) and take practice tests.Ěý

The PSAT 8/9 is also a good way to practice for the junior year PSAT/NMSQT, which can help you qualify for college scholarships and determine your readiness for AP classes. The PSAT/NMSQT is extremely similar in structure to the SAT; however, these scores aren’t sent to colleges, either. Taking this test can help you be eligible for financial aid, prep for the SAT, and determine if AP courses would be good for you to take during your senior year.

4. Begin Writing Your College Resume

Yup, even if you aren’t working yet, a is worthwhile. It only takes 30 minutes to start one, and it can be a great gift to your future self.

College admissions folks love seeing how you’re involved, how you’re leading, and how you’re learning.Ěý

Type up your current extracurricular activities, hobbies, and any awards you have received. Now you have a place to add all those cool things you’ve done, and you ťĺ´Ç˛Ô’t have to worry about forgetting.

you can use!

5. Bonus: Discover Yourself and Meet With Your Counselor

Really want to knock it out of the park?

Start a journal. Cheesy, sure, but it can be a great way to practice self-discovery.Ěý

Self-discovery can help you figure out how you fit in this world…what you want to study, which career path you want to take, what’s important to you in life.

There are no rules here. Just write what you think. What do you think of your classes? Of high school? The people you’re surrounded by?

Even just occasional reflection can help. Meeting with your counselor can help start this conversation.Ěý

To learn more about college planning to-dos for each year of high school, is a great resource to check out next.

If you’re interested in using Scoir starting your freshman year of high school, this can help guide you through the platform.

What Parents/Guardians Should Do When Their Student is in Their Freshman Year of High School

While it may be hard to think about, college is right around the corner for your student. Taking a couple of hours right now to start researching the nuances of financial aid is a great place to start without getting overwhelmed.

1. Learn the Financial Aid Options

There are multiple types of financial aid: federal, state, institutional, and community-based.

The are the two federal aid forms you’ll want to fill out with your student during their junior year.

Your state and/or community may also provide funding for college. It’s worth looking into this to see if you and your student will qualify when the time comes.

2. Support Your Student’s Self-Discovery

Encouraging your student to explore new hobbies and extracurriculars they are interested in is a great way to do this. Give them the opportunity to choose what they get involved in.

You can also start conversations with them about their high school experience, what they like and dislike about high school, and how you can support them throughout this time.

3. Teach Test Anxiety Coping Skills

Most students will experience some level of test anxiety. Helping your student build a toolkit to battle test anxiety is a great way to help them build resilience that will serve them well in college and during their career. Check out these resources for tips to combat test anxiety:

9th Grade College and Career Prep FAQs

Still have questions about freshman year college and career planning? We have answers!

Is it too early to start thinking about college and work during my freshman year?

Not at all! Focus on building study habits, exploring your interests, and tracking your achievements. Think of it as preparing, not deciding what you’ll do for the rest of your life.

How many extracurricular activities should 9th graders do?

Quality matters more than quantity. Aim for 2–3 activities you care about, spending 5–10 hours a week total. Definitely check in with your counselor and see what they’d recommend for you.

Do freshman year grades really matter for college?

Yes. Freshman grades count toward GPA, but colleges also value growth and improvement over time.

Should freshmen take the hardest classes available?

It’s good to challenge yourself, but ťĺ´Ç˛Ô’t overload your schedule. Generally, it’s better to succeed in the right classes than struggle in ones that are too advanced. Again, check in with your counselor. They’ll be able to provide advice that’s specific to your situation.

When should I start thinking about what I want to major in?

Don’t stress. Freshman year is for finding yourself and exploring. Reflect on what you enjoy. You ťĺ´Ç˛Ô’t need to decide on a major for a few more years!

What if my school doesn’t offer many extracurricular options?

Look outside of your school! Volunteering, local sports, jobs, hobbies, or starting a club all show initiative and involvement.

How often should freshmen meet with their counselor?

Generally, at least once a semester. Your counselor can help with course planning, choosing activities, and preparing for college and a career. They are there to help you!

Looking for a tool to help you and your student keep your college planning organizedĚýin 9th grade and beyond? We think is a great place to start! 😉 Scoir will help you and your student discover colleges and careers, find best-fit colleges, and even apply to college when it’s time.

Check out this that you can watch for free if you’re interested in learning more.

Start preparing for the college admissions process

PSAT Practice

Originally published on August 25, 2023. Updated on October 2, 2025.Ěý

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]]> 9 Ways to Help Your Student or Child Combat ACT and SAT Test Anxiety /blog/combat-act-sat-test-anxiety/ Thu, 03 Jul 2025 22:07:10 +0000 /?p=9326 This article was written by our partner, Scoir, the college and career discovery platform. Learn more about our partnership here. In a teenager’s world, standardized tests can feel like a huge, terrifying obstacle to overcome. It’s not unusual for teens to equate their worth with a grade or a score.Ěý Not to mention all the […]

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This article was written by our partner, , the college and career discovery platform. Learn more about our partnership .

In a teenager’s world, standardized tests can feel like a huge, terrifying obstacle to overcome. It’s not unusual for teens to equate their worth with a grade or a score.Ěý

Not to mention all the “what ifs?” your teen may be experiencing:

“What if I haven’t prepared enough?”

“What if I fail?”

“What if my friends score better than me?”

The stress your teenager feels right now likely signifies a deeper need beneath these questions. The key to supporting your child or student with test anxiety is getting to the core of what your student needs, or the true causes of the test anxiety.

That may seem daunting! Odds are, you may be feeling a lot of anxiety yourself. Your student is about to go to college, potentially leaving you with an emptier nest. You’re concerned about your child’s feelings and their performance.

Thankfully, there are some simple things you can do to help your student or child reduce ACT and SAT stress or teenage test anxiety in general. Read on to discover what helps test anxiety.Ěý

Help prevent ACT and SAT stress from stealing your student’s joy with these 9 tips.

1. Make an anxiety battle plan for test day

With of students experiencing test anxiety, your student is not alone.Ěý

A great first step is to sit down with your student and determine some actionable ways to reduce anxiety leading up to the standardized test.

Here are some details to account for leading up to test time:

  • When will you go to bed the night before the test?
  • When will you wake up the morning of the test?
  • What will you eat for breakfast?
  • What will you wear?
  • What will you bring to the test? (And what will you leave behind?)
  • When will you leave for the test?
  • Where will the test be taken?Ěý

Make sure your student knows exactly how to get to the testing room. They can even do a rehearsal if that helps!

This that 91ÁÔĆć created with is perfect to print out for reference!

Check out these test anxiety resources for even more ideas.

2. Emphasize that test scores do not define worth

While test scores are important for college admissions, they are not the sole deciding factor. In fact, many schools are now test optional! Remind your student of their other successes during their high school career that they can share on their college application, such as:

  • Good grades
  • Extracurricular involvement
  • Leadership roles
  • Volunteer work
  • Work experience
  • Hobbies
  • Group projects

Writing these down can boost your student’s confidence. Plus, it doubles as the first draft of a .

3. Exercise together the day before and the morning of

Even a around the block can boost your mood. Plus, it’s a great time to connect with your student and check in with how they’re feeling.

You can remind them that they’ve done all the hard work and preparation already! They’ve done everything they needed to do to prepare at this point, and no matter the outcome, you are there to support and love them.

4. Encourage healthy sleep habits

Encourage your student to get enough sleep by having a consistent sleep schedule the week leading up to test day.Ěý

Consider trying a household wind-down routine. You can turn off devices an hour before bed, dim the lights, and lay out your clothes for the next day.

It may be tempting to continue studying into the night. At this point, the quality of your student’s sleep is likely more important than getting an extra hour of test prep in.

5. Do fun things together leading up to the test

Encourage your student to tap into their support system. You could urge them to spend time with friends or family. Or, you could plan a fun afternoon with your student that will help them recharge their batteries.

This is such a great skill for students to learn, especially as they head into college and adulthood.Ěý

6. Plan something to look forward to after the test

Celebrate the hard work your student has done! How do they like to celebrate?

Here are some celebratory ideas:

  • Plan a fun weekend to visit one of your student’s top choice colleges
  • Go out to eat or make a favorite dinner at home
  • Plan a day to do absolutely nothing and rest

Whatever your celebration of choice is, ensure that it will be free of stress and a good fit for your student. Having something to look forward to can help lessen standardized test anxiety.

7. Meditate and practice mindfulness

to help reduce teenage test anxiety. Simply taking a moment to step away and focus on your breathing for a minute can put the situation in perspective.

Follow along to a with your student, and see how you both feel afterwards.Ěý

Deep breathing and relaxation techniques like this are great exercises to practice during the test as well. Let your student know that if they feel anxiety coming up during the test, just pause and take one big, deep breath. It can help more than you may think!

8. Explore more self-care strategies

When your student is in the throes of teenage test anxiety, it can be hard to remember what actually helps them feel better.

Sit down with your student and write down some things they love to do. Think: hobbies, favorite movies, music, games, etc.

Then, your student can quickly refer to this list whenever they feel anxiety coming on

9. Practice!

One of the best ways to prevent ACT or SAT stress is to take full-length practice tests.Ěý

Unknowns can be terrifying. Taking a couple of hours to set up your space like it’s the actual test day, and taking the entire practice test, can help your child know exactly what to expect. Every time a test is completed, your student can say to themselves: “I can do it!”

As your student practices, they will build the confidence they need to face the test with less anxiety.

Student Test Anxiety FAQs

Have more questions about teenage test anxiety? Here are some answers!

How do I get rid of test anxiety?

Anxiety never really goes away, but we can learn how to cope with it. Anxiety is our body trying to protect us by helping us think through all the implications.

Practicing healthy coping skills and reminding ourselves that anxiety does not equal reality can help. With maturity and confidence, anxiety often gets better.

Please speak with a licensed mental health professional if your student’s anxiety is interfering with everyday life. They are there to help you!

What causes ACT or SAT test anxiety in teenagers?

Test anxiety can stem from fear of failure, pressure to perform well, lack of preparation, comparison to peers, or perfectionism. Some students also experience anxiety due to past negative test experiences or uncertainty about the future. When I experienced test anxiety as a teen, the pressures of getting into college and perfectionism were key causes, but with time, I learned how to cope with anxiety much better.

What are the signs of test anxiety in teens?

Common signs include trouble sleeping, irritability, nausea, headaches, racing thoughts, excessive worry, or avoidance of studying or talking about the test.

How early should we start preparing to reduce test anxiety?

It’s best to start several months in advance. Spreading out practice over time and creating a consistent study routine can reduce last-minute cramming and help students feel more confident and prepared.

What should I say to my child after the test if they feel like they did badly?

Validate their feelings, reassure them that one test does not define their future, and praise the effort they put into preparing. Focus on what they can learn from the experience rather than the outcome.

Keep in mind that test scores are just one data point. ACT and SAT stress may feel overwhelming for your student now, but building perseverance will help carry them through college and their career. They’ve got this!

Eager to start the college and career discovery process? We think is a great place to start! 😉 Scoir will help you and your child discover best-fit colleges and apply, when it’s time.

Start preparing for the college and career discovery process today!

SAT Practice
ACT Practice

Originally published on July 11, 2023. Updated on July 3, 2025.Ěý

The post 9 Ways to Help Your Student or Child Combat ACT and SAT Test Anxiety appeared first on 91ÁÔĆć.

]]> What High School Upperclassmen Wish They KnewĚýSooner /blog/what-high-school-upperclassmen-wish-they-knew-sooner/ Wed, 11 Jun 2025 19:09:09 +0000 /?p=10283 A LOT of upperclassmen feel they’re transitioning from being a kid to being an adult, which can feel exciting and scary. If you’re on your way to being a junior or senior (or are in 11th or 12th grade yourself!), this article is for you!

We polled students asking their thoughts, and we heard from so many of you! We're going to discuss 3 common things juniors and seniors wish they knew more about early on in their high school experience.

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This article was written by our partner, , the College & Career Network. Learn more about our partnership .

Junior and senior year are weird.

A LOT of upperclassmen feel they’re transitioning from being a kid to being an adult, which can feel exciting and scary. If you’re on your way to being a junior or senior (or are in 11th or 12th grade yourself), this article is for you!Ěý

On , we asked students what they wished they knew earlier in high school, and we heard from so many of you! We’re going to discuss four common things juniors and seniors wish they knew more about earlier in their high school experience.

But first…let’s look at why junior and senior year are unique.

What ⭐ Junior and Seniors ⭐ are Thinking About

Here are some things that are top-of-mind for 11th and 12th graders:

  • Applying to college (or starting a job) after graduation
  • Getting into college
  • Earning good grades
  • Staying/getting involved in extracurriculars
  • Friendships (and making new friends)
  • Working, helping family, mental health, etc.
  • Taking the ACT, SAT, and PSAT

As one student told us: “Junior year is the most difficult year as we are taking our SAT and ACT test. I hope I pass.”

Don’t fret! We share resources below that can help you.

Now, let’s get into the things upperclassmen wish they knew sooner!

What High School Juniors and Seniors Wish They Knew Sooner 🤔

1. The ACT and SAT are still important, even though many colleges are test optional

You may have heard that the ACT and SAT are now optional for many colleges.

Yet, the ACT and SAT are still important, and having good scores can really help you stand out!Ěý

As 91ÁÔĆć mentions in the article, ACT and SAT Scores May Not Be Required but They Can Help You Stand Out!, your ACT or SAT score is the only truly standardized measure on college apps, which is why many colleges still put significant weight on them. Preparing for and taking the tests will also help you build valuable test skills for college. Plus, the fact that you have ACT or SAT scores (even if they’re not required) shows that you’re taking the college-going process seriously. Your ACT and SAT scores can even help you receive scholarships!

Check out these helpful resources on the ACT and SAT to learn more:

2. Getting involved in your community is beneficial in more ways than one

Community service is a wonderful way to help people and your neighborhood. Serving is also !

Plus, community service hours are valuable to showcase on college applications. Having volunteer hours on your resume or college application helps college admissions staff get a glimpse into your character. After all, when you’re filling out your college applications, it’s helpful to keep in mind the attributes that make you stand out!

We’d recommend speaking with your counselor to determine the best ways to get involved and how that can help you showcase your personality to your dream school.

You can also check out these for inspo!

3. It’s never too early to start learning about financial aid

College can be expensive. That’s why it’s important to talk to your parent/guardian(s) and counselor about financial aid and your college budget now. Thankfully, most students and families ťĺ´Ç˛Ô’t pay full price for college, and there’s a lot of financial help available if you know where to look.

(Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as soon as possible. It’s the key to unlocking grants, work-study jobs, and low-interest loans. Even if you think you won’t qualify, fill it out—many colleges and states require it for aid.

Some private colleges also use the CSS Profile, which may offer even more financial support directly from the school.

Don’t forget about ! Start applying early (junior year is great).

You might also be offered student loans as part of your aid package. Loans can help, but remember—they need to be repaid.

4. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Asking for help is a skill. For many people, learning to ask is a lifelong journey

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • No one is perfect, and everyone needs help sometimes
  • It’s okay not to know everything

As a high school student, your job is to learn. You’re not expected to know everything!

Some people you can reach out to for help are:

  • Your school counselor
  • Friends
  • Family
  • A mentor
  • Your teachers
  • A therapist
  • A coach

Definitely reach out to your school counselor. You can swing by their office or send them an email. They are there to help you reach your college goals. Here are some things you can talk to them about:

  • Pre-college programs
  • Classes to take in your junior and senior year to prepare for college
  • Financial aid
  • College list building
  • College applications
  • College visits
  • College resumes
  • Letters of recommendation
  • The college application timeline that your school recommends

You can also follow helpful resources online, like the 91ÁÔĆć blog or the . Reddit, especially , is a helpful online community to check out. It’s full of other students applying to college, too!

Have more questions? These checklists from Scoir can help.

Looking for a tool to help you and your student keep your college and career planning organized? We think is a great place to start! 😉 Scoir will help you find best-fit colleges, discover careers, and even apply when it’s time.

Start preparing for the college admissions process today!

ACT Practice
SAT Practice

Originally published on October 26, 2023. Updated on June 11, 2025. 

The post What High School Upperclassmen Wish They KnewĚýSooner appeared first on 91ÁÔĆć.

]]> Things to Think About as You Start Junior Year (+ Junior Year To-Dos) /blog/things-to-think-about-as-you-start-junior-year/ Tue, 08 Oct 2024 21:58:48 +0000 /?p=14377 This article was written by our partner, Scoir, the College & Career Network. Learn more about our partnership here. Congrats! You’re officially a high school upperclassman! 🎉 The new school year can be stressful, even if you’re used to this whole high school thing. Plus, with college, or whatever path comes after high school, looming […]

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This article was written by our partner, , the College & Career Network. Learn more about our partnership .

Congrats! You’re officially a high school upperclassman! 🎉

The new school year can be stressful, even if you’re used to this whole high school thing. Plus, with college, or whatever path comes after high school, looming over you 😬, it’s totally normal to feel uneasy or overwhelmed by what’s to come.

To help, we’ve outlined key things to do during your junior year so you can be prepared for senior year and beyond!

Plus, we’ve included some things for parents/guardians to consider when their student is a junior.

P.S. Please take the following timeline with a grain of salt. 🧂 Your counselor may have a different timeline, so check in with them at the start of your junior year to ensure you’re following what they recommend.

Here's what we cover in this blog post:

To-Dos for the Fall of Junior Year

Once you’re a couple of weeks into the new school year and settled in, it’s time to start thinking about your ✨post-secondary plans✨. AKA: attending college or a tech/trade school, going straight into the workforce, taking a gap year, etc.

You’ve got options. Now’s the time to learn about them!

Research Post-Secondary Options

At this point in your high school journey, you’ve likely done a lot of self-reflection.

What have you learned about yourself? What do you love? What brings you joy and fulfillment? What do you like to learn about?

As you reflect on your interests, start exploring your post-secondary options. Going to a 4-year college is not the only option.Ěý

Try seeking out folks who went to tech and trade school, attended community college, took a gap year, jumped straight into the workforce, or started their own businesses. Keeping your mind open can help you find the best path for you.

Create a Budget and Talk About Finances

Junior year is the year to have a frank discussion with your parent or guardian about money matters related to college. Here are some things to think through together:

  • What is our budget for college? (What can we afford?)
  • How much financial aid can we expect to receive?

Even if you’re not planning on attending college, it’s important to think through your personal budget as you spread your wings and leave the nest.

This blog post on the college can help start the conversation.

Build Your College List

Now that you understand the different post-secondary options and have a budget, now’s a great time to .

Start broad and aim to have a refined list by the end of your junior year, or no later than the fall of your senior year.Ěý

Even if your top post-secondary option is to go straight into the workforce or take a gap year, building a college list is still a good idea (just in case!).

can help you build your college list for free.Ěý

Sign Up to Take the PSAT/NMSQTÂŽ

This test is given in October. You’ll want to learn all about the PSAT before taking it. If you need accommodations, make sure to ask for them early!

Schedule (and Prepare for) the Spring Standardized Tests

The spring of junior year is a great time to take your standardized tests (the ACT and SAT). Give yourself plenty of time to study and the opportunity to retake these tests, if you choose.

In addition to completing your classwork and reading frequently, you can prepare for the ACT or SAT with Test Innovator’s practice tests. 91ÁÔĆć recommends a four-step process for test prep:

  1. Take a full-length practice test
  2. Review your results
  3. Do targeted practice
  4. Repeat!

Taking the ACT or SAT is important, regardless of the path you want to take after high school. Here’s why:

  • Taking the ACT or SAT while all this knowledge is at the forefront of your mind will benefit you if you decide to go to college later down the road
  • Submitting your test scores to test-optional colleges can give you a leg up in the college admissions process

Schedule Spring Visits

If you can, visit colleges in person during the spring of your junior year (which means scheduling those visits now). There are also tons of virtual tour opportunities out there to explore!

Visiting college campuses can help you envision yourself at the college, and determine which colleges are your top choices.

To-Dos for the Spring of Junior Year

Once you’ve enjoyed your winter break, it’ll be time to jump into these spring to-dos for junior year.

If you’re looking for even more info on spring to-dos, check out this webinar Scoir and 91ÁÔĆć ran last school year: .

Request Letters of Recommendation

Asking your teachers, counselor, mentor, or coach for letters of rec in the spring of your junior year will ensure you’re giving them lots of time to write them before you start applying to colleges or jobs in the fall. How ✨demure, mindful, and considerate✨ of you!

Make sure whoever you ask for a letter of recommendation knows you well!

Choose Your Senior Year Courses

Ensure you sync with your counselor on which classes you should take during senior year to set you up for post-secondary success.

And yes, colleges may still watch your senior year grades and performance when you’re a senior!

Plan Your Summer

This blog post on is a great place to start brainstorming! Think of ways to build leadership skills, get involved in the community, begin writing your college essays, earn some extra cash, and (of course) have fun.

What Parents/Guardians Should Do When Their Student is in Their Junior Year of High School

Students, start the college and career conversation with your parent/guardian by sharing this article with them!Ěý

Odds are, you’re feeling some mixed emotions. Your student is super close to spreading their wings and launching to their next step. 🥲

Here are a few things parents/guardians can do now to support their student.

Research Financial Aid Options and Create a Budget

Sit down and think through your college budget and financial aid options that are available to your family.

This can help inform your student’s college list and help narrow down the options.

Remember to take into account the cost of applying to colleges!

Research Different Post-Secondary Options

Keeping your mind open about post-secondary options can help your student find the best path for them, whether that means a 4-year college, community college, tech and trade school, going straight to work, or other options.

Showing your student that there are paths other than a 4-year degree will give them the knowledge they need to choose the best option for their goals, personality, and needs.

Work With Your Student to Identify Standardized Test Prep Resource Needs

91ÁÔĆć has your back! The 91ÁÔĆć practice platform has everything your student needs to reach their target scores, including:Ěý

  • Full-length practice tests
  • Targeted practice exercises
  • Detailed diagnostics

Bookmark our post on things to keep in mind when you start senior year so you have it when the time comes!

Looking for a tool to help you and your student keep your college planning organized? We think is a great place to start! 😉 Scoir will help you and your student discover colleges, find best-fit schools, and even apply, when it’s time. We recently held a that you can watch for free if you’re interested in learning more.

Start preparing for the collegeĚýadmissions process today!

SAT Practice
ACT Practice

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]]> Things to Think about and Do as You Start Senior Year /blog/things-to-think-about-as-you-start-senior-year/ Tue, 08 Oct 2024 21:54:30 +0000 /?p=14368 This article was written by our partner, Scoir, the College & Career Network. Learn more about our partnership here. Congrats, you’ve nearly made it! With the majority of high school behind you, you’re in the home stretch. Is senioritis kicking in yet? 😉 While you definitely deserve to take a breather, there are a few […]

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This article was written by our partner, , the College & Career Network. Learn more about our partnership .

Congrats, you’ve nearly made it! With the majority of high school behind you, you’re in the home stretch.

Is senioritis kicking in yet? 😉

While you definitely deserve to take a breather, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind as you start senior year to make sure you stay on track with your post-secondary plans (whether that’s college, tech or trade school, going into the workforce, or something else).

P.S. Please take the following timeline with a grain of salt. 🧂 Your counselor may have a different timeline, so check in with them at the start of your senior year to ensure you’re following what they recommend.

Here are the senior year to-dos we cover in this article:

Last Call to Take Standardized Tests

If you find yourself in your senior year and want to improve your SAT or ACT scores and improve your admission chances, you may have a final chance this fall. Be sure to check the application deadlines of the colleges on your list and see if you can squeeze it in.

If you’re applying for regular decision, December of your senior year is likely your last chance to take standardized tests. If you’re applying during early decision or early action, you’ll want to take the tests ASAP.

Be sure to check in with your counselor. They can help you with your unique situation!

Finalize Your College Lists and Complete Applications

If you plan to continue your education after high school, it’s time to .Ěý

At the beginning of your senior year, you’ll want to prioritize:

  • Balancing your college list
  • Writing down the application due dates for each college
  • Figuring out what you need to do before you complete your applications (visit colleges on your list, retake standardized tests, etc.)

can help you manage your college list and track the colleges where you’ve applied. Create a free account to try it out!

Maintain Your Grades

Even after you submit your applications, colleges and future employers will still watch your grades. They want to see that you finish senior year strong.

Keep your grades up by maintaining good study habits and as you finish high school!

Secure Financial Aid

If you’re going to college, you’ll want to (and potentially ) this fall. Now’s a good time to look into additional scholarships you can apply to as well.

In the spring of your senior year, you’ll want to verify your financial aid options and see how much each school you’ve been accepted into will cost you. This may help you make your final college decision.

Be sure to work closely with your parent or guardian throughout the financial aid process. They can help you create a budget for college and fill out the FAFSA and/or CSS Profile.

Compare Offers, Accept, and Celebrate

You’re nearly in! Check out this article on to help you decide which college to attend.

Thank Those Who Helped You Along the Way

Be sure to thank your counselors, teachers, mentors, tutors, those who wrote your letters of recommendation, and more. 💙 A written letter is a nice touch!

Looking for a tool to help you and your student keep your college planning organized? We think is a great place to start! 😉 Scoir will help you and your student discover colleges, find best-fit schools, and even apply, when it’s time. We recently held a that you can watch for free if you’re interested in learning more.

Start preparing for the collegeĚýadmissions process today!

SAT Practice
ACT Practice

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]]> 5 Things to Think About as You Start Sophomore Year /blog/things-to-think-about-as-you-start-sophomore-year/ Fri, 30 Aug 2024 21:15:30 +0000 /?p=13692 Welcome to 10th grade! Your freshman year is behind you. And college (or career) is just 3 years away. Don’t worry, you have time. There are some great things you can do right now to prepare for what comes after high school.

We’ve got 5 things to consider doing during your sophomore year of high school (+2 things for parents/guardians). Check them out!

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This article was written by our partner, , the College & Career Network. Learn more about our partnership .

Welcome to 10th grade! 🎉

Your freshman year is behind you. And college (or career) is just 3 years away 💀

Don’t worry, you have time. There are some great things you can do right now to prepare for what comes after high school.

We’ve got 5 things to consider doing during your sophomore year of high school (+2 things for parents/guardians). Check them out!

5 Things Students Should Do Sophomore Year of High School

Feeling overwhelmed? I get it, you already have countless other things going on.

Choose just one of these to-dos for each month of this fall/winter, and you’ll be ahead of the game!

1. Take the PSAT (if you haven’t already)

Haven’t taken the PSAT yet? No worries! Sign up to take the during the fall of your sophomore year. You can take the PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) during the fall of your junior year. We recommend asking your counselor when they think you should take the PSAT.

Your PSAT score won’t be sent to colleges, making it a great opportunity to practice for when you take the real thing (the SAT) during your junior or senior year.

Wondering what’s in it for you? as a sophomore can help you:

  • Prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT, which can help you earn scholarships for college
  • Determine which courses to take during your junior and senior year of high school
  • Find out which academic areas you’re strong in, and which areas you can grow in

Wondering the ? In a nutshell:

  1. Take a full-length practice test
  2. Review your results
  3. Do targeted practice
  4. Repeat!

Once you get your test results back, refer to .

2. Keep Participating in Your Favorite Extracurriculars

Sports, music, art, a job, volunteering, clubs…now is the time to hone in on what vibes with you most. What brings you joy and satisfaction?

Sophomore year can be a good time to dedicate more effort to the extracurricular activities you like the most. It’s totally okay if this means fewer extracurriculars for you!

(Hint: Leadership experience looks great on a , and is great for your personal growth.)

3. Meet with Your Counselor

Now’s a great time to get to know your counselor! Email them to set up an appointment. During this meeting, you can discuss:

  • Course planning
  • Standardized tests
  • Upcoming college events at your school
  • Potential colleges and careers you’re interested in

Your counselor is there to help you! No question is a silly one.

4. Continue Your ✨ Self-Discovery Journey ✨

Now is a great time to start thinking about your potential career paths.Ěý

Ask your parent/guardian or counselor to connect you to mentors so you can learn more about different careers. You can also try taking for fun (just click the “Your Assessments” button!).

Once you complete your career assessment, you’ll be presented with a list of careers that may be a good fit for you. While you’re in , further explore careers that interest you, including how bright their outlook is.Ěý

Then, take a few minutes to follow some colleges on social or Scoir to kickstart the college search process.

Journaling and art are great ways to document this self-discovery process, if that’s your jam.

5. Plan Your Summer

Once the new year comes around, it’s time to start planning your summer!Ěý

The summer should be all about relaxing and self-discovery. Try new activities, attend a summer program, visit colleges, connect with mentors, volunteer, journal, learn an instrument…whatever resonates with you.

Remember: even finding activities you ťĺ´Ç˛Ô’t like is valuable.Ěý

To learn more about college planning to-dos for each year of high school, is a great resource to check out next.

If you’re interested in using Scoir starting your sophomore year of high school, this can help guide you through the platform.

What Parents/Guardians Should Do When Their Student is in Their Sophomore Year of High School

As they say, the days are long, and the years are short. Your student is so close to spreading their wings and launching to their next step. 🥲

Here are two things parents/guardians can do now to support their student.

1. Support Your Student’s Career Discovery

This is an exciting time for your student. So much opportunity awaits!

You can help them discover opportunities by talking about careers, connecting them with mentors in various career paths, and encouraging them to pursue extracurriculars they’re interested in.

Here are some fun self-discovery conversation starters:

  • What’s your favorite part of school?
  • What’s your favorite thing to do at home?
  • What excites you about the future?
  • Which careers are you interested in and why?

2. Give Them Tools to Fight Test Anxiety

Testing will likely be a big part of your student’s life for the next few years. Check out this blog post for a ton of tips on how to help your student fight test anxiety, including:

  • Emphasizing that test scores do not define worth
  • Encouraging healthy sleep habits
  • Meditating and practicing mindfulness
  • …and more!

Here is a you can share with your student as well…a great one for the fridge!

Looking for a tool to help you and your student keep your college planning organized? We think is a great place to start! 😉Scoir will help you and your student discover colleges, find best-fit colleges, and even apply, when it’s time. We just held a that you can watch for free if you’re interested in learning more.

Start preparing for the collegeĚýadmissions process today!

SAT Practice
ACT Practice

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]]> For 9th & 10th Graders: How to Get Started with the College and Career Discovery Process /blog/getting-started-college-career-discovery-process/ Fri, 26 Jul 2024 14:01:32 +0000 /?p=12915 Preparing for college and career in 9th and 10th grade is a great opportunity for personal growth and reflection, and can help propel you toward a great future.

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This article was written by our partner, , the College & Career Network. Learn more about our partnership .

You may be thinking…what?! I should be thinking about college and working already? 😥 You recently started high school, after all. I ťĺ´Ç˛Ô’t blame you for feeling some resistance!

As a former high schooler myself, I get it—9th and 10th grade can be rough. It can be hard to think past graduation day when every day is a grind.

Don’t fret. We’re here to encourage you and show you how to approach the college and career discovery process in a way that is simple and easy to fit into your busy schedule (and fun, instead of stressful!).

Preparing for college and career in 9th and 10th grade is a great opportunity for personal growth and reflection, and can help propel you toward a great future.

In this article, we cover:

Let’s do this!

The Types of Higher Education

Why it’s important: So you know all your post-secondary education options (not just where other people expect you to go!).

In the article: , you can learn all about the different types of higher education. We’ve also outlined common terms and definitions below.

  • University: An institution that offers 4-year bachelor’s degree programs, plus graduate and doctoral or professional degrees. Universities tend to be larger than colleges and emphasize research.
  • College: An institution that offers 4-year bachelor’s degree programs only. This is also the colloquial term for all types of higher education.

If you want to learn more about the types of 4-year colleges, this article on the can help!

  • Community College: An institution that offers 2-year degree programs.
  • Tech and Trade Schools: Institutions that provide in-depth training on specific skill sets, like welding or plumbing.

Defining Other Higher Education Terms

  • Public: Institutions that are funded by the state
  • Private: Institutions that are supported almost entirely by tuition, fees, interest from endowments, and gifts from individual and corporate donors
  • For-Profit: Privately owned institutions that aim to make a profit that can then be shared with their stakeholders
  • Non-Profit: Non-profit institutions can be public or private. Their profit goes right back to the institution
  • Liberal Arts: Liberal arts institutions offer broad education on various subjects
  • Land Grant: Institutions established as state centers for education and research


TL;DR: The difference between a college and a university is the levels of degrees they offer. Universities offer bachelor’s, graduate, and doctoral/professional degrees. Colleges offer only bachelor’s degrees.

Starting Your Career Exploration Journey

Why it’s important: So you understand the best types of post-secondary education for you and what you may want to study in school.

I know, I know….how can you pick a career path to take when you haven’t even finished high school yet? Choosing your career when you’re 15, 16, 17, or even 18 can feel a little unrealistic.Ěý

In fact, I’ve heard a lot of adults who are established in their careers say they ťĺ´Ç˛Ô’t know what they want to be when they grow up yet. Career and self-discovery is a lifelong process.

Most career paths aren’t perfectly linear. And that’s okay. As a 9th or 10th grader, what’s most important is that you’re sitting down and thinking about:

  • What do I like to do with my time?
  • What do I like learning about?
  • How many years of school do I want to do?
  • How much money do I want to make?
  • Who do I want to help?

You ťĺ´Ç˛Ô’t need to know the exact answers to these questions. Ideas or thoughts around what may be important to you are a great start!

So…why start thinking about this now? Two main reasons:

  1. It can inform which colleges you add to your college list and ultimately, where you attend college
  2. It can help you choose good area(s) of study for you

The key word here is: you. Not anyone else. This is your education!

Unsure how to start learning about the career paths available to you? Here are three suggestions:

  1. Talk to your family members about what they do for work
  2. Talk to your counselor about career readiness

TL;DR: Start asking yourself self-reflection questions about what you may want to do for a career, and tap into your support system for help. You ťĺ´Ç˛Ô’t need to know exactly what you want to do, just have ideas!

Choosing High School Courses

Why it’s important: So you can be better prepared for standardized tests and college.

High school is a great time to explore your interests so you can determine what you may want to study in college (in a low-cost, low-risk way). Your high school may offer a variety of classes that hone in on certain subject areas that may unlock a new area of interest for you. For example, I took a business class in high school, which helped me determine I wanted to go into business instead of the sciences in college.

In addition to doing your own exploration, we recommend speaking with your counselor about the best classes to take each year. Your counselor may recommend completing the following courses starting in 10th grade and by the end of 11th grade:

In order to help prepare you for the math on the SAT and ACT, your counselor may recommendĚý completing the following math courses by the end of 10th or 11th grade:Ěý

  • Algebra IĚý
  • Algebra II
  • GeometryĚý

In addition to those math classes, your counselor may also recommend classes with a focus on reading and writing, such as English, literature, and history. These types of classes will also help you prepare for the SAT and ACT. More on those next!

TL;DR: Speak with your counselor about your class schedule so you can be prepared for standardized tests and beyond.

Why Standardized Testing Matters

Why it’s important: To help you build life and study skills and keep your post-secondary education options open.

If the thought of standardized testing fills you with anxiety, you’re not alone!Ěý

One of the best ways to tackle test anxiety is to learn about the tests you need to take. We’ve got you!

The Difference Between the PSAT, SAT, and ACT

The PSAT, SAT, and ACT are all standardized tests that are offered multiple times each year for students to take.

Colleges often ask for a student’s SAT or ACT results as part of their application process.

What is the PSAT?

PSAT (sometimes called the PSAT/NMSQT) stands for Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. It’s the test you typically take in 10th and/or 11th grade before taking the SAT. Students who receive a high enough score (out of 1520) may be eligible to receive a merit scholarship for college. The PSAT covers math, writing, and reading.

What is the SAT?

The SAT is a digital, computer adaptive test that students typically take in the spring of 11th grade or fall of 12th grade. The SAT covers math, writing, and reading, and has a max score of 1600.

Check out the SAT infographic for more details.

What is the ACT?

The ACT (American College Testing) is a paper test. Students may take the ACT in addition to the SAT, during their 11th or 12th grade year. The ACT tests math, reading, English, and science; it also has an optional writing section. The max score is 36.

Check out the ACT infographic for more details.

For a more detailed breakdown of the difference between the ACT and SAT, check out: .ĚýĚý

Why Should I Take the ACT or SAT?

Even if you want to go to a two-year, tech, or trade school that may not require the submission of standardized test scores, taking standardized tests is a good idea. Here’s why:

  • Taking the ACT or SAT helps keep options open, in case you decide to go to a 4-year school or a school that requires that you take standardized tests
  • Studying for standardized tests is great for self-development and growth (including learning study skills that will help you in college and your career)
  • It’s easier to take standardized tests when you’re still in school (especially the math section)
  • Many professions require you to take tests at the beginning of or throughout your career. The skills you learn while taking standardized tests can help prepare you for this

How to Prepare for Standardized Tests

91ÁÔĆć recommends three simple steps to prepare for standardized tests: take a practice test, review your results, and practice.Ěý

Check out these additional resources below for more information:

TL;DR: Standardized tests like the ACT and SAT are important for your college and career journey.

Learning About Financial Aid

Why it’s important: So you and your family can budget for college accordingly and save money.

Now is the time to start conversations with your family about your budget for college. This way, you’ll know which colleges you can afford. You should only add colleges your family thinks you can reasonably afford to your college list.

You can find college cost estimator calculators on nearly any college’s website.

You can also begin exploring your financial aid options and learning ! Common financial aid applications include the FAFSA and CSS Profile. We’d recommend learning about those with your parent/guardian.

TL;DR: Talk to your family about financial aid so you know what you can afford and so you can start the process on the same page.

Building a College List

Why it’s important: So you can organize your thoughts on where you may want to go to college and collaborate with your parent/guardian, counselor, and other supporters on the process.

Now for what you’ve likely been waiting for…building your college list! Now that you have a budget in mind and ideas around your career path, start exploring colleges that fit those criteria.

You should include schools that you think you’re highly likely to get into, plus some “reach” schools that may be harder for you to get into.

You can use a document on your computer, your notes app, , and others to build your college list.

Here are some articles from Scoir that can help:

  • Ěý

TL;DR: Keep in mind your budget and career interests when building your college list.

Bonus: The Junior and Senior Year Timeline

Why it’s important: So you’re prepared for 11th and 12th grade (and whatever comes after high school).

If you’re a planner like me, this section is for you. Here are some of the most important college and career planning to-dos for your junior and senior year of high school to keep in mind.Ěý

Please ensure you connect with your counselor on these to-dos, since your school may recommend a slightly different timeline.

11th Grade College Prep To-Dos

  • Request letters of recommendation (be sure to check with your counselor for their suggested timeline for this)
  • Visit your favorite colleges on your college list (virtually or in-person)
  • Plan when you’ll take the ACT and/or SAT
  • Prepare to fill out the FAFSA and other financial aid applications


Check out this link for a more comprehensive from Scoir.

12th Grade College Prep To-Dos

  • Finalize your college list
  • Verify and finalize financial aid
  • Research and attend pre-college programs and events
  • Work on and submit college applications
  • Choose where you’ll go to college!

Check out this link for Scoir’s .

TL;DR: In 11th grade, you should research and start applying for financial aid, and plan when you’ll take standardized tests. In 12th grade, you should finalize your college list and applications. Please talk to your counselor about these items, since some schools recommend different timelines.

Now that you have a roadmap for how to prepare for college (and career!) in 9th and 10th grade, make sure to do something fun! It’s summer, after all! 😀☀⛱

Start preparing for the collegeĚýadmissions process today!

SAT Practice
ACT Practice

Originally published on June 21, 2024. Updated on July 26, 2024.Ěý

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