In stad of regular classes, Marist students participated in a day of test-taking and seminars Tuesday, April 9, preparing them for future opportunities in college and beyond. The Counseling Department planned activities geared for each class.

Seniors: Life Skills and Lessons Beyond the Classroom

Senior students gathered in the main gym to listen to various speakers who gave talks about their first hand experiences with substance abuse. Later, they brought in a retired judge to inform students about the repercussions of drinking and driving and fake ID usage. Then, seniors split into three groups learning about personal finance, campus safety and a trivia game. They finally ended with a raffle for dorm essentials. 

“I thought that the talks about substance abuse were essential for people my age to learn about, and the personal finance speech was very informative,” said Meave Briody. 

Juniors: The ACT Experience 

Many juniors took the ACT for the first time with mixed opinions. 

“I thought it was going to be a lot harder than it was. Time was the major issue, but I think I did well,” said junior Sam Popow. 

“That was so bad, math was such a struggle. I never want to take that test again,” said junior Ava Krueger. 

Sophomores: The PACT

Sophomores took the PACT (Practice ACT) from 8:00 a.m to 11:00 a.m. Many of them said it was harder than they expected. 

“I felt unprepared at first, but the English and reading portion I found were the easiest,” said sophomore Carsyn Smith. “The math and science part I struggled with, I thought it was horrible.” 

Sophomores will be taking the official ACT next year.

Freshman: First Taste of Standardized Testing

Freshman also took the PACT for the first time, with many saying they were grateful that they do not have to take the actual test for two more years. 

“It was hard because most of the stuff seemed like it was meant for a higher grade level, but I felt [that] it was similar to the entrance exam,” said Rita Loureiro.