I’ve spent a lot of time during the past few weeks working on my Common Application. I made a lot of progress on my personal statement and list of extracurricular activities. I wrote several essays that were required for scholarships. That extra hour of Daylight Savings Time came in handy. I also took the ACT for a second time on October 25.

Since I had taken the test before, I felt very prepared, knowing what to expect from each section. I suggest that those of you who are preparing to take the ACT spend some time studying on the ACT website or using the ACT book. These resources gave me a great deal of valuable information and hints. I studied for the science section by reviewing terms and doing practice problems.  I took the ACT with writing because that’s required by most of the colleges I’m applying to.

On the day of the test, which was held at my school, I was assigned to a wobbly desk. I knew that this would the annoying throughout the test, so I asked to change seats. Make sure that if you aren’t comfortable (sunlight, shaky desk, etc.), politely ask a proctor if it’s possible to change seats. I’m eager to see my scores!

Now is the time to start making final decisions about which colleges you will apply to. I recommend that you talk to your school counselor. Ask about scholarship opportunities, too. Also, make sure you give thank you notes to show your appreciation to the people who wrote recommendations for you.

Last week, it was the first snow fall here! I was so excited that I ran out onto my driveway and stood, looking up at the falling flakes, trying to catch one on my tongue. The very light snow was gone by the morning but I enjoyed it while it lasted, and I always look forward to the winter months. Hockey season is my favorite.

Halloween is always a fun day in school because most people dress up, including some teachers. Popular costumes this year were The Joker, the presidential candidates, and the Blue Man Group. My friends and I dressed as the Jonas Brothers. I sprayed my hair black, and we wore matching Disney Games t-shirts. We walked around all day singing to people in the halls. It was sad thinking that it was my last year at home for Halloween, but hey, I can always go trick-or-treating in dorms next year!

During the week leading up to Halloween, I worked at two carnivals for little kids as part of my community service activity with the National Honor Society. One of the nights, our school held a party for the teachers’ children, and it was so cute seeing their little kids dressed up in costumes, bobbing for apples, and painting their pumpkins.

I’d like to congratulate our school’s boys and girls soccer teams for winning the Sectional Championships. They are both moving onto Regionals! The school is brimming with spirit as a result, and the players are being praised as heroes.

I’m writing this on the eve of Election Day, and I am very anxious to see the results. I miss voting by about six months. I can’t believe it is already November. That means Mock Trial is starting up in the next few weeks with try-outs for new members. Senior year is going by so quickly, even though sometimes the days seem very long because of the workload. The end of our first marking period is this week. Three more to go until graduation.