With the PSAT approaching, students at Community High School are feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. For many, the test is a helpful way to practice for the SAT, but it can also be a source of stress depending on how prepared they feel.

Junior Will Giblin views the PSAT as a chance to show off his academic abilities. “It’s a good opportunity for me to show off how smart I am, especially to my parents,” Giblin said. He believes success comes down to one’s mindset, adding, “You’ve really just got to believe in yourself. It’s the entire key to being good at the PSAT.”

For freshman Conrad Marra, the PSAT brings more stress than excitement. “I feel stressed in the way that I haven’t fully learned everything, and I can’t study for it,” Marra said. Marra acknowledges that the test provides colleges information on students’ knowledge but finds the unpredictability of the exam difficult to prepare for.

Sophia Frisinger takes a practical approach to the situation. While they don’t find the PSAT particularly interesting, they prefer it compared to other standardized tests like the NWEA. “I’d rather take three PSATs than the NWEA,” Frisinger said. They appreciate the sectioned format of the test, which allows them to take breaks and feel less overwhelmed.

While some students at CHS see the PSAT as a confidence booster, others find themselves struggling with the stress of uncertainty. Each student’s experience is different, but one thing is clear—the PSAT stirs up many emotions.