When should students start SAT or ACT prep—and how do they decide which test is right for them? In this episode, Nicole and Muskan break down the strategy behind smart testing, not just more testing.

They walk through an ideal testing timeline, how SAT/ACT dates fit into college list planning and essay writing, and what students should consider before signing up for another exam. From choosing between the SAT and ACT to understanding superscoring and test-optional strategies, this episode offers practical guidance to help families plan with confidence and avoid unnecessary stress.

Whether you’re a sophomore planning ahead or a junior deep in testing season, this episode will help you make informed, intentional decisions about standardized testing.

About us: Moon Prep is the leader in Direct Medical Programs, BS/MD, and Medical School Admissions. Our team works one-on-one with students to guide them to acceptance.

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Receiving a waitlist or deferral decision can feel confusing and overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, Moon Prep counselors Nicole and Muskan break down what waitlist and deferral decisions really mean, how different schools handle them, and what students should do next.

From understanding waitlist movement and deferral timelines to writing an effective letter of continued interest, this episode walks through actionable next steps, important deadlines (including National Decision Day), and common mistakes to avoid. Nicole and Muskan also discuss how to assess your other options, gather meaningful updates, and move forward with confidence—no matter the final outcome.

Whether you’re navigating uncertainty or supporting a student through the process, this episode offers clear guidance, reassurance, and practical advice during a critical moment in the admissions cycle.

In this episode of our Essay Mini Series, hosts Nicole and Amanda dive deep into the “Community” essay and what these prompts are really asking admissions officers want to know. They break down the two core questions behind the essay: How has this community shaped who you are, and how will that relationship carry forward into your time at their university?

Nicole and Amanda discuss how broadly “community” can be defined—from teams, classes, neighborhoods, cultural identities, and online spaces to less obvious groups like being an only child or navigating overlapping identities. They emphasize the importance of choosing a community where you had real involvement and impact, rather than one you simply observed.

The episode also highlights common mistakes students make, such as focusing too much on accomplishments, over-describing the community, repeating content from other essays, or sharing details that don’t actually reveal anything meaningful about the writer. Nicole and Amanda explain how to keep the focus on personal growth, contribution, and reflection.

Finally, they address prompts that ask about future contributions—offering guidance on how to discuss values, specific experiences, and realistic ways students might engage on campus without falling into overused or vague claims.

Whether you’re struggling to define your community or trying to figure out how to show impact and growth, this episode will help you craft a thoughtful, intentional, and authentic “Community” essay.