I am not the most clever individual in my class. But then again, I am not simpleminded either.

I like to think of myself as a sponge; soaking up information from any and everywhere I can. In short, I am a bibliophile with a thirst for knowledge that water can only dream of quenching.

Standardized tests, though, are not my friends. I create flashcards, I look over my notes. And in the end, I maneuver my way through the questions and pray to God that I did not fail.

Unlike mandatory tests, the SAT is odd. Sure, you can prepare in advance for the sections, but it is ultimately up to you to do well for the sake of your future. This is where my animosity towards the SAT stems from. Why should an outdated test determine what happens to me down the line? I do not believe that the SAT accurately measures one’s intelligence. I know people who are brilliant and have bombed the test.

However, I do see why universities use tests such as the SAT and ACT when it comes to admissions. Sometimes, grades just aren’t enough.

If I have control over anything in life, it is myself. And with tests like the SAT and the ACT, I have no control.