The PLAN/PSAT standardized tests are scheduled to take place on Oct.14. Juniors and sophomores will take the PSAT and freshmen are encouraged to take the PLAN. Seniors, along with the rest of the school, will be taking the ASVAB.

“We do recommend that freshmen take the PLAN test,” Director of Counseling Linda Skafish said. “However, the test is optional.”

The PLAN test is a pre-ACT test, which is a graduation qualifying exam. This test prepares freshmen for when they have to take the real test. The PLAN assesses students on their academic abilities in English, mathematics, science and reading and also provides freshmen with possible career options.

“Standardized tests are okay,” freshman Vincent Shiue said, who has signed up to take the PLAN test. “I don’t mind them.”

Shiue is one of many freshmen preparing to take the PLAN test. Shiue said that from past experiences, he finds the tests slightly boring and wonders what level of difficulty the material will be on the PLAN.

The PSAT is the pre-SAT test, which motivates juniors to do well on the SATs. The reason is because the tests all have the same format and then students will be used to and ready for the test. Along with a PSAT prep course, students are also given a customized SAT study plan and a list of colleges that may suit them.

Although Spenos did not take the prep course himself, he recommends that all juniors do. Prep courses are scheduled for Sept. 23 from 6:30 to 9:15 p.m., Sept. 24 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:15 p.m., Sept. 30 from 3:30 to 6:15 p.m. and Oct. 1 from 6:30 to 9:15 p.m.

Besides scheduling for standardized tests, the counseling department also provides emotional support for students and transitional support for the incoming freshmen.

“The counseling center also organizes the college representatives and the AP testing,” Skafish said.

As the day for testing draws nearer, Spenos shares his advice for making it through standardized tests. “Sleep and eat breakfast.” By Keshav Masani <[email protected]>

For the testing day schedule, click here.