To the Junior Class, As second semester begins and the holiday cheer and excitement from winter break start to fade, I know that this is when the Junior class always begins to panic. I went through these same exact emotions last year. SATs, Subject Tests, ACTs, APs and other acronyms slowly begin to fill up every second of free time that you have. Should I take SAT prep classes? When is the best time to take these standardized tests? Should I start researching and visiting colleges? I know that all of these questions can feel overwhelming at first, but step one is to take a deep breath. You have already completed two and a half years of rigorous Pine Crest work. You are more than prepared for any of the standardized tests coming your way. The most important thing that you must remember throughout the second semester of Junior year is that you are not alone in this. Every single member of the Senior class made it through this same process, so you relax and know that it is possible to balance everything. Additionally, you need to remember to find time to enjoy the things that you want to do. Your parents will want you to be as prepared as possible for the SAT and ACT. Your teachers will want you to do well on their AP exam, and your college counselors will want to know which colleges you are interested in. However, you cannot stay focused on each of these tasks every day of the week. What I found that helped me to relax last year was continuing with my favorite extracurriculars and going to the gym more. I would walk into the gym very stressed out, but after taking spinning or cardio classes, I would walk out feeling so empowered with confidence and relief. The power of serotonin, the chemicals released in your brain when you exercise, is incredible. I’m not saying that you should necessarily go to the gym, but merely find time for yourself when you can continue to enjoy your favorite things. Also, there are a few essential suggestions that I can offer. Of utmost importance, and I know many people who regretted not doing this, is researching the standardized test policies of your favorite colleges. Many Seniors today will tell you that they forgot to see if their colleges required subject tests, and now during the middle of senior year, they have to take them. Do you research early; if a college requires subject tests then pick the subjects that you feel most confident in and talk to your teachers and counselors first. The best time to take these would be in May or June when you are finished with the class. Keep in mind, however, that some colleges change requirements from year to year. Also, if you need advice on SAT prep tutors or when to take these tests, don’t be afraid to walk up to a Senior and ask us for advice. The Seniors may seem intimidating because we are older, but we have all been through this daunting process and would love nothing more than to help out the Juniors. This year, I am so thankful that there was an amazing Senior class last year to lead our school and provide advice to me and my fellow peers. I hope that this year’s Senior class will also step up and help the junior class throughout this crucial time. To the Juniors, I only wish you the best of luck throughout the entire college process from taking the SATs through the decision day. My thoughts are with you. Sincerely, Katie Bodner