Karina: From Test Anxiety to Academic Confidence
Overcoming Test Anxiety
When Karina came to RTC for test prep, standardized tests felt like a pressure cooker. She rushed through questions, second-guessed herself, and often blanked out—especially in math. At school, she struggled with test-related anxiety, which made it difficult for her to focus and breathe. She dreaded math tests.
Karina’s performance coach began working with her on breathing techniques. In their first session, she experienced a noticeable drop in stress and decided to incorporate breathwork into her school tests. The result? She was able to pause, refocus, and recall the solution steps she needed—leading to her first-ever perfect math test scores.
Despite this success, Karina struggled emotionally. She compared herself to friends who achieved high scores with no studying, leading to frustration and doubt. Her performance coach helped her shift her mindset, reminding her that she was only competing with herself. This perspective allowed Karina to regain focus and approach her next ACT with excitement instead of fear.
Building Confidence in Math & Test-Taking
Because she had usually blanked out on math tests, Karina had always doubted her math skills, but her ACT tutor immediately saw her potential. With a customized, structured test prep plan, she:
Developed confidence in ACT Math through personalized instruction.
Used Patrick Mahomes football analogies to visualize test-taking strategies. (Karina is a huge KC Chiefs fan!)
Learned to slow down and focus to avoid careless mistakes.
As Karina gained confidence in math, she also improved in English—asking for extra practice to push her scores even higher.
Breaking Through Mental Barriers
On her first official ACT, Karina’s progress test showed a 5-point Composite increase, including:
7-point gain in English
5-point gain in Math
Despite this success, Karina struggled emotionally. She compared herself to friends who achieved high scores with no studying, leading to frustration and doubt. Her performance coach helped her shift her mindset, reminding her that she was only competing with herself. This perspective allowed Karina to regain focus and approach her next ACT with excitement instead of fear.
Achieving Her ACT Goals
On her final ACT, Karina surpassed her goal with a 7-point overall increase:
5-point increase in Reading (score: 32)
7-point increase in Math - the section that had terrified her at the start of prep!
With the ACT behind her, Karina relaxed, enjoyed her tennis season, and finished junior year strong.
Mastering the College Application Process
In July, Karina returned to RTC for College Application Essay Coaching. Initially, she struggled to start writing, but with guidance from her tutor, she:
Used a brainstorming exercise that helped her find her voice.
Learned the fundamentals of drafting, editing, and revision.
Developed confidence in her ability to write independently—a skill she’ll use throughout college.
By the time Karina submitted her Common Application and supplemental essays, she had not only crafted authentic, compelling essays, but she had also become a confident writer prepared for college-level coursework.
Karina’s Growth Beyond Test Prep
Over the past year, Karina has transformed from an anxious student to a confident, grounded young woman. Her experience with RTC provided her with:
Test-taking strategies that improved her critical thinking.
Mind-body techniques that help her regulate stress.
The confidence to approach college and beyond with excitement.
Karina’s Family: A Parent’s Perspective
Karina’s mother, Cindy, reflects on her daughter’s journey:
"When we first encountered RTC, we liked the idea of a mindful, personalized approach to test prep. What Karina and our family came away with was much more. Karina gained a confidence and a calm that transcended the standardized test. Whereas the prospect of testing and college applications seemed so daunting, she now approached it all with a quiet confidence that made the entire process actually fun and exciting. Working with Claire and her team helped Karina unlock her potential, and wherever she lands after high school, she knows that she has the tools to handle any challenge that comes her way."
Looking Ahead
Karina is now a happy and successful student at Indiana University, and we couldn’t be more proud of her journey!
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