Mental Health
Stress During Finals
By Alex Perez ('23)
As we approach the last quarter of the school year, we can’t help but feel pressure and feel stressed. This is the final push and hearing the rumblings of college applications and acceptances, AP testing, finals approaching along with the regular load of school and extracurriculars can have most of us on edge. During this time it is so important to protect your mental and physical health. It can be hard to take care of oneself sometimes, or even step away from the computer when you know it’s time. So how can we? Well when school starts to feel like a constant cycle of school, after school activity, homework, and repeat in the morning you know it’s time to prioritize and step back. Sometimes, we just need a deep breath or to vent to our family and friends. Pay attention to how you are feeling and talk to someone then take a break. You may have to skip that band practice, or talk to your teachers about your workload. We need to normalize that taking a break and stepping back is okay. You always want to do your best and put in full effort, but not at the cost of your well being. The best approach when managing stress during finals is to be organized and plan ahead. It’s so much easier to start reading sooner, begin your review sheets earlier and space it out than cram it all in at the last minute. Do not be afraid to speak up and ask questions. Your friends can also be there for you. Study with your friends and bounce ideas off of each other. Exchange your notes and meet in another location. Sometimes just changing the scenery can relax you. While taking exams, it’s important to remember what type of student you are and how you test. We are all so different, but knowing and understanding what you need plays a huge part in your success and relaxation. The last thing to remember is something most of our parents have told us for years: get plenty of sleep, eat a healthy breakfast, bring a snack, pencils and pens, and arrive with plenty of time. Remember that you know yourself better than anyone else, so be organized and be prepared, work hard and try your best then just breathe.
AP/SAT Stress and Prep
By Anna Galan ('23)
Studying and preparing for SAT and ACT exams can be very stressful for many high school students. However, there are many ways to prepare and ace these exams.
First, it is important to familiarize yourself with the details and content found in each exam. The SAT scores range from 400 to 1600 points, while the ACT ranges from 1 to 36 points. While both tests feature sections devoted to reading and writing, the SAT contains two math sections (one with and one without calculator), while the ACT has one math and one science section. In addition, both tests have an optional essay. It is crucial to understand each individual test structure, and determine which test is best fit for you.
Once you are well-acquainted with each exam, it is crucial to practice its content. Most schools offer the PSAT exam during your freshman, sophomore, and junior year. Use your test results to estimate a target score and create an ideal study plan. However, if your school does not offer the PSAT exam, you can find several practice tests online, along with sample questions available on the College Board’s website. Set aside time to utilize practice problems or take full-length practice tests. Claire Michael ‘23 said “I take practice tests and whatever I score the lowest on, I make sure to review that section and work on practice problems”. After finishing each section, check your answers and take time to review the questions you got wrong. If you find it difficult to study on your own or find it helpful to study in groups, there are many in-person programs that offer SAT or ACT prep. “I’m currently taking an SAT prep class at St. Thomas High School, and I find it really helpful in finding the skills necessary to master certain topics” says Sarah Douglass ‘23 who’s taken both SAT and ACT prep at St. Thomas.