Dear Readers, 

        My name is Matthew Heyl, and I am a Junior enrolled in Waubonsie Valley High School. I'm very appreciative that I have the opportunity to attend a great school with an amazing education program that prepares me for college, as well as the opportunity to meet new people and gain more friends. As a junior I came to a realization recently that my current class will have to take the standardized test known as the SAT, or the Scholastic Aptitude Test, in April. As everyone is aware, there is a huge deal of pressure and stress that comes with when preparing to take the test. The pressure and stress is represented by competition among all Juniors to see who can get the best scores towards their college applications, how to study for the test, and finding time to study. These tests are very flawed as they only add stress to students that are busy with homework, and outside of school activities. They also don't truly measure a student's whole academic capabilities which can be shown through their grades or GPA. This topic is very important to me because I personally believe that the SAT as well as the ACT shouldn't determine one's future. It should give students a chance to showcase to colleges and universities who they are outside of a student. Who they are towards their community, towards their peers, and their family.