Three-hour test, tiny bubbles to pencil in, and a kid in the back of the room who sniffles every 13 seconds. Nothing quite compares to the SAT test. The SAT is one of the two benchmark college admission tests since the 1920s that most students take in order to get into a good college. 

Life-skills teacher at Pennridge High School, Robert Gombar, has been a proctor for the SATs for the last ten years, and has run the whole event the last three years. His job includes getting and training proctors, assigning students to a room, and making sure the testing day runs smoothly. He also helps with the SAT preparation class. When asked if it would be beneficial to take the class, Gombar stated with affirmation to, “Take the class… whether it’s the normal one or the cyber SAT preparation class, take the class.” He also mentioned using Khan Academy and other additional tutoring to see what areas you need to improve upon. 

Preparation is key to doing well on the test. According to Gombar, “It’s not even just about knowing the information better, but also prepared students go into the test with a lot more confidence.” He also added that there is really no need to stress over the test. Many students do not do well on standardized tests, but that doesn’t mean they’re not intelligent. The SAT is just one of many different ways for colleges to view your chances of succeeding at the next level.”

Gombar admits though that the test has changed drastically over the years. Before, the SAT was closer to an IQ test, with more abstract content, but as the years go on, the test has become more subject-based. The test used to even deduct points for a wrong answer, and students were forced to decide to guess or not answer at all. 

“The test has changed a lot over the years,” Gombar stated, “but all-in-all, students just need to prepare and go in with confidence. Many test-takers stress about finishing on time, but it is best to just relax and answer the questions as best you can in a timely manner.” The SAT can be a stressful test, but you get multiple tries at it. As long as you prepare, and are confident, the test should not be that bad. Confidence is key to being successful for a big test like the SAT. If you think positively and try your hardest, you really cannot go wrong.