
Before I could find an SAT prep class for her to take, College Prep Genius: The No Brainer Way to SAT Success by Jean Burk arrived in the mail to be reviewed. Instead of reviewing it myself, my sixteen year old daughter reviewed it for me. Here is the interview I did with her a couple years ago to review this product.
Meredith: Jenny Rose, what was your overall impression of College Prep Genius?
Jenny Rose: I found it very helpful in the way it informed me of how the test worked and how to take it in a way that would set me up for success.
Meredith: How was College Prep Genius able to do this?

Meredith: What do you mean by "tricks" the SATs give you?
Jenny Rose: Instead of being a test on how much knowledge you know, it really is a test on how to use logic. They give you "fake" answers that may seem right, but are actually based more on opinion than logic. This program teaches you how to look out for those fake answers. It shows you what kinds of fake answers they give and gives you acronyms to help you remember them. It also gives you tips on how to see the questions logically whether by circling or underlining portions in the reading or circling specific words in the questions themselves.
Meredith: Can you share an acronym that will help you recognize a "trick"?
Jenny Rose: S.O.N. Avoid answers that are Strong, Opinionated, or Negative. They will always be incorrect.
Meredith: Wow! That's so cool! Tell me exactly what you use in this program.
Jenny Rose: There's a workbook, DVD, and a textbook. I watch the DVD and read the text pages that go along with it. I do the workbook while I watch the DVD.

Jenny Rose: Yes. For example, when I retook a practice test in critical reading, I found myself able to answer the questions more accurately and with more ease. This was my lowest score when I took the SAT back in June.
Meredith: Are you planning to take the SAT again?
Jenny Rose: Yes, hopefully, in October. I'm really grateful that I was able to use this program. I'm confident that I am going to do better next time!
Meredith: Thank you so much for you time, little Jenny Rose. You are a blessing and the joy of my heart!
We reviewed the "Mastering the SAT DVD set" with the workbook, textbook, and DVD. You might also be interested in the "Master the SAT Class" a ten hour workshop taught by Jean Burk across the nation.
Jean sent me this helpful information in an email: "I wanted to clarify the disclaimer at the beginning of the DVD about the licensing agreement. Due to copyright laws, the DVD can be used for more than one student in the same family. If someone does want to use the DVD in a group/co-op setting, they can. The licensing agreement states that each student would need their own College Prep Genius book and workbook. These can be purchased for the special prices of $50.00 for both for each student. (This price is not reflected on the site so they would have to contact me at jean@collegeprepgenius.com) (I am also creating a teacher's guide for co-ops.)"
The SAT is important for homeschool graduates who want to attend college. We are so thankful to have been able to homeschool our children from kindergarten to graduation from high school. In applying for college, a high SAT score goes a long way in securing scholarships for graduating homeschoolers. In the junior year of high school, the PSAT test is offered. It is not a "practice test" for future SAT takers, but rather an opportunity for your son or daughter to become a National Merit Finalist. Freshman and sophomores might consider taking this test for practice because this junior year PSAT opens many doors for scholarships and invitations to prestigious schools. If this test is a source of anxiety for you or your child, consider making an investment in their future with an SAT prep course. Jenny Rose and I high recommend College Prep Genius!
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight," (Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV).
Ultimately, our future is in God's hands. That doesn't mean we should prepare and work hard. We should work hard, looking to the future, while trusting in God to guide our steps and pour out His blessings!
God Bless you!
Merey (Meredith Ludwig Curtis)