An RHS junior is preparing for her future by studying for the ACT while hoping to get accepted into her dream colleges.
Apple is no stranger to a packed schedule, but this year, one challenge stands out above the rest: the ACT. With college on the horizon and big goals in mind, Apple has thrown herself into test prep with the kind of focus and discipline that is hard to miss. From late-night practice tests to balancing extracurriculars and academics, her journey reflects not just the pressure many students feel, but the determination and support it takes to succeed. Through the eyes of her family including her mom and her freshman sister, Apple’s story reveals how the ACT affects more than just one student’s future; it reflects onto her sister. Apple has always had big dreams.
“I’ve always tried my best in school and push myself to do as well as I can so that I can have options that I like for where I want to go college. I want to go to big schools that are hard for me to get into, but if I don’t have a good ACT score that is pretty much impossible,” she said.
Preparing for the ACT is not just about knowledge—it requires strategy and using the right resources. Apple realized that to achieve her goal score, she needed more than self-study. She started using online practice tools and eventually began working with a tutor to help her improve in specific areas.
“I started studying with an online tutor who lived in Florida because my mom found him, and he was supposed to be really good. But it didn’t work for me because it was all online, and I do better with meeting people in person and having a strict schedule,” she said.
Apple’s experience with online tutoring highlights the challenges students may face when trying to find the right study method. Although the online tutor seemed promising, she quickly realized that learning in a virtual environment did not align with her preferred style. The need for a more structured, in-person approach reveals that, for some students, face-to-face interaction and the accountability of a set schedule are key to staying on track.
Without her family, Apple would not have the motivation she has today. Her mom has always pushed her to be the best version of herself and to work hard.
“I stay motivated with the help of my mom, and also by reminding myself why I’m doing this. Working hard and studying for a little bit of time now can allow me to be where I want to be for at least four years in the future,” she said.
Apple stays motivated through a combination of her own determination and the support from her mom. She understands that putting in the hard work now will help her reach her college goals in the future. Her mom plays a key role in keeping her on track, offering encouragement and helping her manage the pressure of test prep. Together, they have developed a plan to make sure Apple is well prepared for the ACT while also making sure she does not get too overwhelmed by the process. This balance of support and structure has helped Apple stay focused on her goals and maintain her motivation throughout her preparation.
“I’ve encouraged Sophie to prepare for the ACT because of the schools she expressed interest in,” Sharron Apple said.
Apple has explained that she is looking for schools in the south, including top ten schools as in University of South Carolina, University of Georgia, and Florida State. These schools require high ACT scores, and GPA’s. Therefore Apple has shown dedication and perseverance throughout this process.
”I offer to keep Sophie company while she is studying, just so she doesn’t feel lonely. In the end I’m proud of her, but because of her own aspirations. I’ll be happy if she achieves her target score,” Her mom said.
As well as her mom, Apple’s sister Sydney Apple is a freshman and she is very close with her sister. Sydney has pushed Apple during her ACT prep and has looked up to her for her future high school years.
“Watching Sophie work hard for the ACT is motivational for when it’s my time,” her sister said.
Practicing for the test can be very stressful and time consuming, Apple is constantly focused on her work.
”Sophie is more busy with it, and she has been getting work done that she doesn’t have time for. Also I watch her practice and it makes me mad, because I don’t want to be overwhelmed,” her sister said.
Making time for ACT prep and school in real life is a challenge, and it only works with time management. Apple expressed that it’s stressful and it can pull down grades in school.
Apple has adjusted her study methods, maintained a consistent schedule and received support from her mom and sister throughout her ACT preparation. Her efforts reflect the process many students experience when preparing for college entrance exams.
