by Liz Fleming

On October 18, VCHS freshmen, sophomores, and juniors participated in the PSAT/NMSQT. Previously, this test was optional for students at Valley Christian, but for the first time ever, it was a mandatory event for all students in grades 9 through 11. But after a grueling 2 hours of testing, not to mention countless pages of Scantron bubbling, you ask yourself the important question: so what’s it all for?

The Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test is a nation-wide practice exam given to students to help prepare them for the SAT. It’s a good way to gauge how successful students will be when they take the real exam in the spring, and shows what areas they need to study to score higher. Since many colleges require SAT scores as part of admission, extra preparation to increase scores on the SAT can have huge benefits when applying to college. In addition to being great preparation for the SAT, juniors who score exceptionally well on the PSAT/NMSQT can qualify for National Merit Scholarships.

This year, VCHS administration added emphasis on the importance of the PSAT by integrating it into part of a school day. By giving students a minimum day schedule where the PSAT was the main focus, administrators hoped that students would see the test in a positive and beneficial way. VCHS counselor Jonathan Burton said, “We view the PSAT as a powerful diagnostic for students, as well as great means for school assessment.” The PSAT offers students an in-depth score report for every student who participates, multiple college planning tools and excellent data through the College Board website, which all contribute to a student’s overall college readiness. “We would eventually like for the PSAT to take the place of TASK testing. We feel the PSAT is more useful to students and it will provide the administration with the needed information for our accreditation once we have enough collective data,” Burton continued.

After three grueling hours of testing, students left school with a better understanding of the SAT, and how they can work to prepare for the exam during the spring of their junior year. Sophomore Amy Thomas said, “I definitely know a lot more about the SAT now that I’ve taken the PSAT. I think I’ll be more prepared when I take the real thing next year.”

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