As we all know, making final college preparations is a reality soon approaching for MVHS seniors, but they aren't the only ones thinking about college. With the end of the school year arriving soon, ACT testing is on the horizon for many of the rest of us.

ACT testing can be stressful for anybody. Between all the studying and preparation and the thought of it being a determining factor for your college choices, students can feel overwhelmed. Luckily, here at MVHS many of our teachers lend a helping hand to the students as they prepare to take the big test. Ms. Lynne Cowherd, who teaches both American Literature and freshman English courses, is one who can offer some great advice in helping students prepare for having the best ACT testing experience.

Believe it or not, test success may hinge on the preparations you make the night before, according to Ms. Cowherd.

1. Get all supplies ready the night before.

Ms. Cowherd says one of the best things students can do is have all their supplies prepared for the next morning. According to her, some supplies you should have prepared might include “ID, pencils, calculator, granola bars, water bottle, hoodie, gas in the car, etc.” Overall it’s best if you have all your necessities gathered and ready for the next day. As mentioned above, doing this will only save you potentially needed test time and will keep your morning organized and stress-free.

2. Get a good night’s sleep the night before.

One of the more obvious pieces of advice for the night before a big test would be, get plenty of rest. It is very important for your mind to be well-rested and in the best place possible before attacking advanced levels of curricular subjects. Ms. Cowherd even says for the best test experience you should “go to bed at a reasonable time.” If you're feeling extra stressed, possibly try reading a book or listening to some relaxing music in order to help aid yourself to sleep. Overall, make sure you are getting enough rest before test day.

Ms. Cowherd also advises, “As soon as a student gets to the testing site, go to the bathroom before entering the room. Take a jacket, some schools are cold.” Ms. Cowherd lastly mentions how students should also prepare for the test by taking practice tests: “Go to ACT.org and review test formats, be familiar with time allowances, know the directions beforehand so students don’t have to take time during the actual test. Take several practice tests offered on ACT. org.”

Ultimately there are many tips to helping you succeed on the ACT. From being prepared and well-rested the night before to simply bringing a jacket so you aren’t cold during the test, there are many ways to get your mind in the right place for the big test. So just remember even though the ACT can be a stressful event just take a deep breath, you got this!