Natalie Acebo
+140 in Math
“Overall, the prep course not only elevated my scores but also instilled in me the belief that achieving higher goals is within reach with the right mindset and approach.”
Hey guys! My name is Natalie Acebo, and I’m a Junior at St. Brendan High School.As an 11th-grade student, my journey toward this success began when I realized the need for SAT preparation. I knew I had to put in the work to secure a good score, and that’s when I sought the guidance of a prep service.
The decision to enroll in the prep course was influenced by the recommendation of a former student, who was connected through my mom. It seems moms have a way of knowing each other and sharing valuable information. I opted for math prep, believing it would be more manageable to focus on one subject at a time. Given my inclination towards math, it provided me with the motivation I needed.
Reflecting on my initial experiences with SAT practice, I recognized that I lacked the routine of consistent practice, hindering my ability to navigate the test efficiently. I needed to develop a natural flow and muscle memory, which the prep course helped me achieve. The personal connection with the instructor, Cori, made the learning experience more engaging. It wasn’t just about getting answers right or wrong; Cori took the time to ensure everyone understood the concepts.
Comparing the virtual prep course to the COVID-era virtual classes, there were similarities in the online format. However, the prep course felt more personal, with a smaller class size of students who shared similar goals. Commitment and consistency were key lessons from the prep course. While it initially seemed like a daunting amount of work, spreading it out over time proved effective, eliminating the need for procrastination.
The results speak for themselves. My PSAT score of 1220 and a 610 in math transformed into a SAT score of 1410 with a stellar 750 in math after the prep course. This achievement has instilled confidence in me, showing that I can reach the desired scores with dedication and the right guidance. Now, my focus is on improving my reading scores, and I plan to continue with the prep course for that specific area.
Looking ahead, I’m optimistic about the digital format of the SAT, especially for the reading section. The elimination of long passages and the ability to focus on shorter, more digestible content align better with my strengths. Overall, the prep course not only elevated my scores but also instilled in me the belief that achieving higher goals is within reach with the right mindset and approach. I’m grateful for the support, and I look forward to further success in my academic journey.