UB Chronicle

The Upward Bound Programs at Morehead State University

March 2025 Volume 4 Issue 7

The Importance of Standardized Testing in the College Admissions Process

Taken from Varsity Tutor

Introduction

College is just on the horizon, and all of your years of hard work are finally about to pay off. As you gear up for the next phase of your educational journey, it's time to start thinking about which admissions test you will take. The test you must take will vary depending on where you hope to attend college.

Standardized testing has long been a cornerstone of college admissions. But why do colleges require these examinations? The answer lies in their ability to provide a level playing field for students nationwide. Think about it: GPAs and course rigor vary significantly between schools. These numbers don't tell the entire story. However, standardized tests like the ACT, SAT, and CLT give the college board a consistent measure of academic readiness.

Beyond admissions, these tests can play a key role in scholarship opportunities. Many merit-based scholarships require specific scores, making standardized testing not just about getting into college but also about affording it. Even at test-optional schools, submitting strong scores can set you apart from other applicants and signal your academic abilities.

Colleges also use standardized test scores to assess institutional performance. For example, many schools analyze average incoming scores to gauge the academic strength of their student body. Whether you're aiming for a state school, an Ivy League university, or a smaller liberal arts college, standardized tests remain a valuable part of the admissions process.

What are test-optional schools?

In recent years, the concept of test-optional admissions has gained traction. Test-optional schools allow students to decide whether or not to include their ACT, SAT, or other standardized test scores with their applications. This policy reduces barriers for students who may not be great test takers or lack access to adequate test preparation resources.

Some of the nation’s most well-known test-optional schools include Bowdoin College, the University of Chicago, and Wake Forest University. These institutions emphasize a holistic admissions process, placing greater weight on factors like GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.

REMEMBER: Don't look at "test-optional" and immediately assume you're in the clear not to take a test. Submitting test scores to test-optional schools can still be beneficial. Strong scores may boost your application, especially if other areas (like your GPA) are less competitive. Students should carefully review each school’s policies to decide whether submitting scores aligns with their goals.

Most Common College Examinations

SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

What is it?

The SAT is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States.

Why is it important?

Many colleges use SAT scores as part of their admissions process
It tests your skills in reading, writing, and math
Some scholarships may be based on SAT scores

ACT (American College Testing)

What is it?

The ACT is another standardized test used for college admissions, similar to the SAT.

Why is it important?

Tests English, math, reading, and science reasoning
Includes an optional writing section
Accepted by all major U.S. colleges

AP (Advanced Placement) Exams

What is it?

AP exams are taken after completing Advanced Placement courses in high school.

Why is it important?

Can earn you college credits while still in high school
Shows colleges you're ready for college-level work
May help you graduate college earlier or take more advanced courses

CLEP (College Level Examination Program)

What is it?

CLEP exams allow you to test out of introductory college courses.

Why is it important?

Can save time and money in college
Demonstrates knowledge in specific subject areas
Accepted by many colleges for credit

GRE (Graduate Record Examinations)

What is it?

The GRE is a standardized test for graduate school admissions.

Why is it important?

Required by many graduate programs
Tests verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing
Scores are often considered alongside your college GPA

LSAT (Law School Admission Test)

What is it?

The LSAT is required for admission to most law schools.

Why is it important?

Tests skills needed for success in law school
Measures reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning
Scores are a significant factor in law school admissions

MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)

What is it?

The MCAT is required for admission to medical schools.

Why is it important?

Tests knowledge of science concepts and critical thinking skills
Assesses problem-solving and verbal reasoning abilities
A crucial component of medical school applications

NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination)

What is it?

The NCLEX is taken after completing nursing school to become a licensed nurse.

Why is it important?

Required to practice as a registered nurse
Tests knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level nursing
Ensures nurses meet national standards for patient care

Praxis (Education Licensure Examinations)

What is it?

The Praxis tests are used for teacher certification.

Why is it important?

Required in many states to become a certified teacher
Tests general and subject-specific knowledge
Demonstrates readiness to enter the teaching profession

Remember, not all of these tests will apply to everyone. The tests you take will depend on your educational and career goals. It's important to research which tests are required for the colleges or programs you're interested in and prepare accordingly. Good luck with your future academic endeavors!

It is important to check your UB email at least 2-3 per week to ensure you don't miss out on any important information, sign-ups, etc. If you need your password reset, please contact your UB Counselor for assistance.

We're Recruiting!!

The Upward Bound Programs at Morehead State University are currently accepting new student applications.

9th, 10th, or 11th grade students at the following high schools: Bath, Bracken, Boyd, East Carter, Elliott, Fleming, Harrison, Johnson Central, Lawrence, Lewis, Magoffin, Mason, Menifee, Montgomery, Morgan, Nicholas, Paul Blazer, Robertson, Rowan, and West Carter High Schools, are eligible to apply.

Students can submit the Online Application through our recruitment site at join.moreheadub.org or students can obtain a paper application by visiting our website or their high school guidance counselor for assistance.

UB/UBMS Eligibility Requirements

Submit the online and/or paper application with required documentation

a. Guidance Recommendation Form

b. Two Teacher Recommendation Forms

c. 2024 Taxable Income Information (IRS 1040) with Signature

Have at least a 2.5 GPA
Be first-generation, meet federal income requirements, and/or academic risk
Be College Bound
Students accepted into Upward Bound Math Science (UBMS) must show a strong interest in obtaining a STEM related college degree.

Summer 2025 Preview #1

We are super excited for Summer 2025! Over the next few months. We will be featured answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about Summer! As Olaf says "Everything is better is SUMMER!"

Residence Halls/Roommate Sign Ups

You will be signing up for Roommates via email starting in April! It is a great time to start figuring out who you might want to room with so that you can fill the online registration when it opens.

Note: We do not know yet which residence halls we will be assigned for Summer 2025. In the past we have been in 2 and 4 person occupancy halls. Below is a generic layout of how each residence hall is configured.

Double rooms typically come with the following items:

2 desks
2 chairs
2 wardrobes
2 twin XL beds

Suite Style rooms typically come with the following items:

4 desks
4 chairs
4 wardrobes
4 twin XL beds
Study Room area
Bedroom area
Shower and Bathroom are shared spaces but you and your roommates

How Teens Can Make Good Decisions

Taken from www.daniel-wong.com

Life is filled with both big and small decisions. Some, like choosing what to eat for dinner, are pretty straightforward. Others, for example, the college you will go to, can have a more significant impact on your life. No matter the situation, each choice you make is a valuable learning opportunity. Over time, you’ll get better at making wise choices.

Step #1: Identify the problem

The first step in making good decisions is to identify the root cause of the issue. You might feel the urge to blame someone else – that’s normal – but it’s important to take responsibility for your actions. Ask yourself these questions:

Why am I facing this problem?
Did a habit or behavior of mine contribute to it?
What goal am I trying to achieve by solving it?
Is it worth solving, or is it something I should learn to live with?

Step #2: Brainstorm possible solutions

On the surface, it might seem like there’s only one solution to the issue. But instead of rushing to make the decision, give it more thought.

Write down the possible solutions that come to mind, no matter how silly they might initially sound. You’ll likely end up with a list of unique and creative fixes for the problem.

There’s also the option of combining the solutions you’ve come up with. This may help you tackle the issue more effectively, especially if there are two or more root causes.

Step #3: Review the pros and cons

After listing all the possible solutions, assess each one of them. Write down the benefits and downsides of each solution.

Step #4: Calculate the risks

When you’ve narrowed down your options, you can then proceed to calculate the risks. Any solution carries some amount of risk, so it’s crucial to take this into account. You can ask yourself these questions about the solution(s) you plan to implement:

Will this decision help me reach my goals?
What are the risks of making this decision?
What are the risks of not making this decision?
How likely is it for these risks to actually occur?
Will I be hurting anyone else in the process?
Does this decision align with my values?
Is this decision unethical in any way?

Step #5: Use the 10-10-10 Rule

If you’re still struggling with a difficult decision, you can use the 10-10-10 Rule. Ask yourself, “What will the consequences of my actions likely be in 10 minutes, 10 months, and 10 years?”

Step #6: Make the decision

After doing your analysis, it’s time to make the decision. You can seek advice or help from people you trust, like your teachers or parents. Research has shown that emotions can change how we assess our choices, and teens experience more intense emotions than adults. So, it’s crucial to stay aware of how your emotions might come into play.

Step #7: Reflect on the results

Every decision has consequences, so after some time has passed, reflect on those consequences. Ask yourself these questions:

What went well?
What could have gone better?
What could I have done differently?
What principles should I follow when making these types of choices in the future?

If your decision didn’t lead to the desired outcome, you might feel a sense of regret or disappointment. Acknowledge those emotions – it’s normal to feel that way. Then, gradually let go of them and remind yourself not to dwell on the past. Also, be sure to show yourself compassion. After all, every decision you make is an opportunity to grow and learn.

Eight Tips to Help Your Child Prepare for High-Stakes Tests

Taken from: Edmentum

No matter what your personal feelings on high-stakes testing are, there is no escaping the reality that these assessments will be an important part of your child’s academic experience. And, everyone wants to see their student experience success in the classroom. So, what’s the best way to help your child prepare for high-stakes tests—and keep a healthy mindset while doing so? Here’s eight simple tips for parents to help their student perform their best on testing days.

1. Prioritize attendance and homework

Tests are ultimately intended to be a measure of how well students have learned the material being taught in class. With that in mind, what is the best (and most straightforward) piece of test-prep advice for caregivers is to do what you can to ensure that your child is fully engaged with his or her classwork throughout the year. Set aside dedicated homework time each night to make sure that your child is completing their assignments consistently throughout the year. It’s also a good idea to periodically reflect on your family routine, and make sure you and your student are keeping a schedule that gets them to class on time every day. If your student is absent for a day, or has to miss a class period, check in with them to make sure they can make up what they missed.

2. Communicate with teachers

Regular communication with your child’s instructor can help you gain insight into his or her progress. Make a point of meeting or talking with your child’s teacher on an ongoing basis to understand what your child is working on, what he or she will be tested on, and the areas that he or she is excelling and struggling in. Your child’s teacher is also a great resource for test-preparation practice or strategies you can use with your child at home. Plus, they can keep you up to date on group study sessions or other opportunities for additional review that your child may benefit from.

3. Talk to your child about test taking

The purpose and goals of testing are not always obvious, even to the students who take them. Especially with new test-takers, it’s easy to be intimidated by testing or simply not feel motivated to put forth a lot of effort. Have open, ongoing conversations with your child to explain the benefits of testing, focusing on how it helps them, their teacher, their school, and other educators understand their strengths and weaknesses and figure out the most effective ways to teach. You can also use this opportunity to ask your students how they feel about testing, and offer reassurance or perspective if they have any anxiety around exams.

4. Offer positive reinforcement

A little encouragement can go a long way in helping students walk into testing days feeling confident—which, in turn, can have a huge effect on their performance. Praise your child for the work that he or she does to prepare for testing, and share in his or her excitement when he or she has success with a new concept or skill. Similarly, when he or she is struggling with a topic, point out the progress that he or she has made and encourage him or her to continue working. Having already experienced success with the material that he or she will be tested on will help your child avoid test anxiety and perform to the best of his or her ability on testing day.

5. Support healthy habits

Sleep and nutrition can have a huge impact on your child’s ability to focus and retain information. One of the most helpful things that you can do as a parent is focus on supporting these basic needs. Well-rounded meals and a regular sleep schedule will help your child succeed in the classroom on a day-to-day basis. On testing days, it’s especially important to make sure that your child gets a good night’s sleep, starts the day with a filling breakfast, and goes to school with a water bottle to help stay hydrated.

6. Give your child a study space

A comfortable, dedicated space for homework and studying can work wonders for your child’s productivity. Make sure that your child’s space is quiet, well lit, and stocked with the right materials, like a writing surface, pens, pencils, highlighters, scratch paper, a calculator, and any other tools that he or she might need.

7. Keep testing in perspective

No single test is that important. Avoid putting too much emphasis on your child’s test scores—doing so can make your child feel pressure that will ultimately only affect his or her performance negatively. It’s also important to not be upset by a single test score. Low test scores can occur for any number of reasons; it may have just been an off day for your child.

8. Debrief after the test

After testing day has come and gone, talk with your child about his or her results and how he or she felt about the test. By discussing his or her answers, thought processes, and feelings, you can gain further insight into what he or she is struggling with and excelling at and then help him or her better prepare next time. Talking about testing can also help your child process the experience and overcome any anxiety that he or she might have had.

Needing to contact your UB Counselor?

Ashley Cooper (Associate Director UB Central)

Schools Served: Elliott, Morgan, and Magoffin

Brandon Isaac (Associate Director UBMS North)

Schools Served: Mason, Menifee, and Rowan

Gabby Johnson (Associate Director UBMS South)

Schools Served: Boyd, Paul Blazer, and Robertson

Gabe Markwell (Associate Director UB East)

Schools Served: Bracken, Lawrence, and Johnson

Trey Napier (Academic Bridge Coordinator)

Schools Served: Fleming, Lewis, East Carter, West Carter

Cheyenne Wilson (Academic Coordinator)

Schools Served: Bath, Harrison, Montgomery and Nicholas

Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math & Science are 100% federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education and sponsored by Morehead State University.

Page updated

Report abuse