By Enoc Curiel
Oct. 10, 2018
Dobie freshman, sophomores, and juniors tackled the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test, or less intimidatingly known as the PSAT, Oct. 10 on both campuses.
The PSAT is taken nationwide as preparation for the SAT, the standardized college admission test. Although the PSAT does not count for admission, it is the qualification test for the National Merit Scholarship, making it potentially vital to future success.
“I think it is crucial because it is the first test you will take before many other similar standardized tests in your career.” said Counselor Teresa Jack. “If you want to be a lawyer you take the LSAT, if you want to be a doctor you take the USMLE, and any other career path has its own test, so it’s important you get exposed to the format.”
The PSAT tests a broad range of reading, writing, and math skills through timed sections. For example, the reading section may give the student 60 minutes to answer 47 questions. This fast paced test is challenging for many students.
“The most difficult part of the PSAT for me is actually answering all the questions before time runs out,” said junior Oscar Velasquez.”
The school has several resources to prepare for both the PSAT and SAT, including test prep courses and online and physical test books.
Dobie also endorses Khan Academy, an education website, for preparation for the exam.
“I use Khan Academy,” said Emily Reyes. “I like how accessible it is and the format of its questions lets me familiarize myself with what I could encounter later.”
In most schools throughout the country, students must register and pay a fee to take the PSAT. For a number of years, Pasadena Independent School District has decided to administer the test for free to every student in hopes of fostering further future success.
“I hope every student takes an advantage of this opportunity,” said Ms. Jack. “It is not normal for schools to give the exam for everyone.”