<p>I like to think I'm a smart kid. I'm in the top 10% of my class, I have a 3.8 unweighted GPA, I've taken numerous AP/Honors/College in the HS/Advanced classes, and I spent my junior year studying abroad in Germany on a government funded merit based scholarship. I'm treasurer of National Honors Society, I'm involved in leadership have leadership positions, I volunteer, I speak four languages, and I have a part time job. Despite all of this, I am a pretty lousy test taker. Especially high stakes tests. Low stakes tests that I don't really take seriously, like state testing, I've always scored in the top 90 percentile. I took the PSAT my freshman and sophomore year and I got a 48 and a 50 composite score respectively. Most recently I took the ACT and got a 21. I've been known to have test anxiety in the past and when I took the ACT it was no exception. During practice ACT tests I got really good scores, but when it came to the real thing I blanked. I would look at the test and just shut down inside. Another reoccurring problem I have is that I always run out of time. Taking the ACT and reading through the questions I knew the subject matter but for every single test I would only be halfway through the test when the five minute mark was called. </p>
<p>Sorry for the rant, but when it all boils down I guess I am just asking for tips on dealing with test anxiety during standardized tests (taking the SAT in December) and how badly will lower than average test scores affect my college applications. </p>
<p>If it helps, I am hoping/wanted to apply to NYU, UCLA, UCSD, Claremont McKenna, Pomona, and Georgetown. </p>
<p>It’s never always about the test grades. Your story, and how you paint your story, counts a lot. You seem like a smart kid, so I would try not to get too anxious. I’m also applying to colleges this year, and I know exactly what you feel. That being said, I also know that wherever the wind ends up taking me, I’m going to appreciate it. I will appreciate whatever opportunities I am given. You have a bright future ahead of you. Regardless of the outcome, regardless of whether you get accepted or denied into the school of your dreams, you have lived a hell of a life. Not many people can say they’ve studied abroad in Germany, heck few can say they’ve even been there. That in itself is an experience no one can ever take away from you, and one that will look spectacular when you apply. Life doesn’t end if you get denied, or accepted. Where one door closes, another will open. There are still plenty of tough moments in store for us both. We need to work hard, and never take our eye off of our goals. No one said it was going to be easy, but that doesn’t mean you sit around and mull over all the misfortune you’ve had. There’s always calm after the storm. When the dust settles, and we’re both going to some college, chasing some degree, life will make more sense.Capitalize on whatever opportunities come your way, and have a little bit of confidence in yourself. So best of luck to you, I’m certain what you hope for is much more realistic than you think.</p>
<p>I used to have the same issues. What’s helped me is just relaxing the day before the test. Study hard the weeks or months before, but the night before, watch a movie. Hang out with friends. Honestly anything but SAT or ACT. Don’t eat a large breakfast if you usually don’t and don’t go to sleep at 7 if you usually go to sleep at 10. Treat it as you would any day before school. I know not a lot of people may say that and it might not work for you but it’s worth a shot! Leave your home early and arrive early to your location. Sometimes it’s hard to find the right room and that can stress you out more, so leave maybe an hour before the test starts, stop at starbucks and get your favorite drink, and arrive with plenty of time to your school or wherever the location may be. You know the information on the test so don’t over think while you’re taking it. You’ll do great!</p>