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It Means the World to Me

ACT established the ACT Scholars program to nurture the academic talent of graduate and community college students at the University of ...

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ACT established the ACT Scholars program to nurture the academic talent of graduate and community college students at the University of Iowa and Kirkwood Community College, respectively. These institutions share ACT’s commitment to helping all learners achieve their college and career goals. Each ACT Scholar’s story reflects resilience, passion, and a vision for the future.

For Karter Mason, college has become a path to new possibilities, a chance to build a better future and pursue opportunities his parents didn’t have. As a student at Kirkwood Community College, Karter has found confidence and connection in the classroom, discovering joy in writing, learning, and receiving meaningful feedback from supportive professors. Thanks to the ACT scholarship, he can focus on his goals without the added burden of financial stress, allowing him to navigate school, work, and life with more balance and resilience.


Breaking Barriers and Building Futures: Stories of Resilience, Strength, and Community

Higher education holds the promise of opportunity, transformation, and success, but for many students, especially those who are first-genera...

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Higher education holds the promise of opportunity, transformation, and success, but for many students, especially those who are first-generation college students, the road to higher education is fraught with unique challenges. ACT spoke with three inspiring individuals whose stories of resilience offer unique insights into how support systems like Greek organizations, college readiness tools and programs, mentors, and community members can help students overcome socioeconomic challenges and achieve their college dreams.

Gregory Damas is a graduate of Villanova, where he received a B.A. in business and real estate. He is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. He plans to pursue either an MBA or CMA in the near future.

Dr. Angel Oliver received her degree in interdisciplinary studies from Prairie View A&M University. She is a first-generation doctoral candidate and a member of Sigma Gamma Rho sorority.

Courtney Mathis received a B.S. in sociology from Texas A&M and is a member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority. She is currently pursuing an Ed.D. in higher education leadership and administration from Clark Atlanta University.

Who has motivated or inspired you in your college-going journey?

Damas: My greatest motivators have always been my family and my community. My parents, who immigrated from Haiti in search of better opportunities, instilled in me a deep respect for education and the importance of perseverance. Their emotional and physical sacrifices to make me a first-generation college student continue to inspire me daily. I’ve also drawn strength from the support of my broader community—church parishioners, neighbors, teachers, and school staff—whose constant encouragement often came at just the right moments, especially when I doubted myself.

Oliver: Throughout my college journey, I have been deeply inspired by the women in my life—my mother, who worked in healthcare for over 30 years, and my grandmother, who always emphasized the importance of education despite the limited opportunities she faced. Their resilience and determination laid the foundation for my journey. Additionally, the support of mentors in both formal and informal capacities has been crucial in shaping my path and understanding that success in higher education is not just about academics but also about perseverance, community, and staying grounded in one’s values.

Mathis: I’ve been deeply inspired by the resilience of my peers and the students I’ve worked with in financial aid. Watching them persist through adversity has fueled my commitment to this work. Additionally, the powerful women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, as well as Black women educators and mentors, have shown me the strength, grace, and leadership needed to succeed in spaces not always designed for us.

What resources, such as scholarships, mentorship programs, or college prep materials, did you receive during your pursuit of higher education? Did any of those resources stand out?

Oliver: As a first-generation college student, I received scholarships, mentorship from faculty, and support from various programs designed to help students from marginalized backgrounds succeed. One program that stood out to me was a mentorship initiative specifically for Black students, which helped me navigate the complexities of college life and kept me motivated during challenging times. The scholarships I received, especially those aimed at first-generation students, were also pivotal in alleviating the financial burden that often comes with pursuing higher education.

Damas: I took a proactive approach to finding resources and made the most of everything I discovered. My high school college counselors were instrumental in breaking down the process in a way that made sense to me, and their ACT workshops were incredibly helpful. I applied to several scholarships and universities, and was fortunate to receive seven scholarships—including one from a Philadelphia alumni chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. I used free online platforms to do daily ACT practice and borrowed an ACT prep book from the library to supplement my studying.

What barriers have you encountered in accessing higher education, and how can these be addressed?

Oliver: As a first-generation student, one of the most significant barriers I faced was the lack of a roadmap for navigating higher education. I had to figure out the system largely on my own, which made it difficult to take full advantage of resources like academic advising, internships, and networking opportunities. I believe this can be addressed by offering more targeted support for first-generation students, such as mentorship programs, preparatory workshops, and resources that directly speak to their unique needs.

Mathis: Being a first-generation college student, one of the biggest challenges I faced was navigating financial aid and understanding the systems of higher education. These barriers can be addressed through expanded access to financial literacy education, increased outreach in underrepresented communities, and institutional investment in culturally responsive advising and mentoring.

What advice can you offer to other Black or African American students who hope to pursue a college degree?

Mathis: Own your brilliance. You are more than capable, and you deserve a seat at every table. Seek out communities and organizations that affirm your identity and values. Don’t let fear or financial concerns deter you—there are resources, scholarships, and people willing to help you along the way. Be bold, ask questions, and never stop advocating for yourself.

Damas: Apply, apply, apply. When one door closes, keep knocking on others. I applied to several scholarships, colleges, and universities, and while I faced a lot of rejections, all it took was one “yes” to change my life. If your first ACT score isn’t what you hoped, don’t be discouraged. Carve out consistent time to study and try again. Most importantly, be kind to yourself. The road to college can be tough enough—you don’t need to be your own biggest critic.

What are your hopes for educational advancement for Black/African American students like yourself?


Damas: Currently, the percentage of Black adults over the age of 25 with a bachelor’s degree lags behind the national average. I hope to see that number not only meet but exceed the national average in the future. Higher education opens doors to resources, networks, and knowledge that can be life-changing. My vision is for Black students to have the luxury of choice when it comes to college—choosing a school that fits their goals and aspirations rather than being limited by financial constraints or lack of access.

Mathis: I hope to see more representation in leadership roles, more funding for minority-serving institutions, and more targeted policies that support retention and graduation for Black students. My goal is to help create a more just and equitable education system where Black students don’t just survive but thrive.

What role did the ACT play in your journey to college?

Damas: The ACT was a better fit for me than the SAT. I took it three times and saw improvement each time. I appreciated being able to use a calculator on the math section and liked the inclusion of a science section. My strongest area was English, with Math close behind. Back when I took the ACT in 2015–2016, the SAT penalized wrong answers, while the ACT did not—which made me more comfortable with taking calculated risks on the ACT.

Oliver: The ACT played an instrumental role in my journey by providing a standardized benchmark for my college applications. It helped me open doors to institutions I may not have initially considered, and it reinforced my belief in my academic abilities. The ACT provided an objective way for colleges to assess my preparedness and, in turn, allowed me to secure scholarships that helped mitigate some of the financial barriers I faced.

The stories of Gregory Damas, Dr. Angel Oliver, and Courtney Mathis serve as powerful reminders of both the promise and the challenges of higher education. Through resilience, determination, and community, they’ve turned barriers into opportunities with the hope that others will follow in their footsteps. Explore how ACT helps support students on their education journey.

Why We Do This Work: A Decade of College Access at Philip Barbour High

By: Kim Burnett, school counselor, Philip Barbour High School,  2024 School of Excellence Winner Over ten years ago, we began participating ...

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By: Kim Burnett, school counselor, Philip Barbour High School, 
2024 School of Excellence Winner

Over ten years ago, we began participating in college application events at Philip Barbour High School because our students needed more: more access, information, and support. Located in rural Barbour County, West Virginia, our community is small. We’re one of the few counties in the state without a Walmart. Many of our students would be the first in their families to attend college, and their families often don’t have the experience to guide them through applications, visits, or financial aid.

Back then, most college applications weren’t even online. Transportation was (and still is) a hurdle for many of our families, so we made a decision. If our students couldn’t get to the colleges, we’d bring the colleges to them.

We started hosting our College Application Day events with a clear mission: to give students access to as many postsecondary options as possible in a setting that was welcoming and fun. One of the best early decisions came from our former counselor, Jan Woodard, who insisted that any postsecondary institution participating must allow students to apply for free during the event. That single requirement helped eliminate a major barrier and made the event more inclusive for every student.

Over the years, our strategy has grown. We begin by teaching juniors and seniors about the college-going process, financial aid, and state assistance like the Promise Scholarship and WV Invests grant. In October, we host our annual College Application Event, which students rotate through, and reps stay into the evening so parents can attend. We offer a FAFSA Night in the winter with help from outside experts, and we celebrate students in May with Decision Day. Throughout the spring, we continue nudging students to finish applications, apply for scholarships, and finalize plans.

We’ve seen meaningful results. In 2023, 56% of our graduates reported plans to attend college or technical school, and 51% actually did, according to data from the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission. For the class of 2025, 45 out of 80 students surveyed plan to attend college, a technical program, or join the military. We’ll know more come fall, but what we’re already seeing is that this group is more confident and prepared than ever before.

In 2024, we added some Halloween flair to our “Future Ready” College Application event. Students and reps dressed up and handed out goodies, and even the Fred Eberle Technical Center’s cosmetology students gave free haircuts to community members. It was fun, yes, but it was also deeply impactful. One student told me, “I thought I had things figured out, but there are more options than I realized.” That’s exactly why we keep doing this.

But we couldn’t do it without our dedicated team. Principal Brandon Antion dreams up the big ideas, CIS Site Coordinator Paula Daniels handles communications and designs materials with our business students, and I manage logistics and follow-ups. Every year, we return to this work for one simple reason: it’s what’s best for our students.

Being named an ACAC School of Excellence is an honor, and while not everyone in the community may fully understand what that title means, we know it represents years of consistent, caring effort to help our students believe in themselves and their futures. And that’s something worth celebrating.

If You Want To Succeed, You Put Your Best Foot Forward

ACT established the ACT Scholars program to nurture the academic talent of graduate and community college students at the University of I...

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ACT established the ACT Scholars program to nurture the academic talent of graduate and community college students at the University of Iowa and Kirkwood Community College, respectively. These two institutions share ACT's passion for helping all students achieve their college and career ambitions.
ACT has invited these scholars to share their stories to commemorate their journeys from application to graduation.


For Jennifer Bui, college represents more than just a new chapter; it's a chance to grow, connect, and confidently pursue her goals. A student at Kirkwood Community College, Jennifer is grateful for the support of her parents, teachers, and the welcoming Kirkwood community. She's learning to navigate change, build independence, and make the most of her college experience — both in and out of the classroom.

Hear Jennifer's story and what drives her in the video.


ACT Announces Strategic Partnership with MasteryPrep to Unveil New, Reimagined Test Prep Platform for Schools and Districts

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ACT Online Prep, Powered by MasteryPrep, includes expanded access, more flexibility, and enhanced performance insights...

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ACT Online Prep, Powered by MasteryPrep, includes expanded access, more flexibility, and enhanced performance insights

IOWA CITY, Iowa — Today, ACT announced a strategic partnership with MasteryPrep to transform in-classroom test preparation and expand access to high-quality, standards-aligned tools for educators. Built on a commitment to providing innovation and personalized support at an affordable price point for schools and districts, the collaboration includes debuting a new and improved, industry-leading platform for test preparation called ACT Online Prep, Powered by MasteryPrep.

“Our strategic partnership with MasteryPrep is strengthened by a shared ambition to improve outcomes for all learners,” said ACT CEO Janet Godwin. “With the launch of this high-quality online platform, we are continuing to transform college and career readiness for hundreds of thousands of students and offer scalable implementation to meet school-, district-, and statewide needs for end-of-course exams.”

ACT Online Prep, Powered by MasteryPrep, is an affordable, premium option for schools and districts to provide a range of standards-aligned tools and resources, including diagnostic and full-length practice tests and detailed reports with skills metrics, student performance insights, and data-driven recommendations.

Features of ACT Online Prep, Powered by MasteryPrep, include:
  • Updated for the Enhanced ACT Test: Students experience practice and prep fully aligned to the enhanced ACT — including shorter reading passages, more time per question, and rebalanced reporting categories — ensuring targeted readiness for the most current exam format.
  • Alignment to Standards: Courses, videos, reporting, and personalized learning paths align to the ACT College and Career Readiness Standards, as well as several state standards.
  • 40 Hours of Online Course Material: Interactive microvideos and contextual learning paths simulate a conversation rather than a lecture and enables students to improve their mastery of critical skills.
  • Daily Bell Ringers: Five-minute classroom warm-up exercises that reinforce the essential skills measured on the ACT test. Students bolster their college readiness skills and engage with targeted practice to prepare for test day. A scaffolded learning approach builds student confidence and competence. Each subject includes easy-to-follow explanations for every question, and teachers can share questions on their screen of choice.
  • New Platform Reporting Tools: The newly reimagined reporting tools in the MasteryPrep platform make tracking student progress easier, more intuitive, and more powerful than ever. Learn more about the enhanced reporting capabilities on MasteryPrep’s website.
As a leader in the test prep market, MasteryPrep already works with over 2,500 schools and school districts to provide meaningful, measurable academic support that can help improve student performance on standardized assessments without teaching to the test.

“MasteryPrep shares the ACT mission and commitment to empowering students and educators,” said MasteryPrep CEO Craig Gehring. “MasteryPrep’s comprehensive test prep solutions and expanded capabilities in this new platform will allow us to accelerate our mission and boost student achievement.”

Since the 2021-22 school year, MasteryPrep has served as an official licensee of ACT and has included official test questions in its products and solutions. To learn more about the strategic partnership, please visit: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/act-online-prep-schools.html.

For more information about MasteryPrep, visit https://www.masteryprep.com/partnerships/act-online-prep-partnership

About ACT
ACT is transforming college and career readiness pathways so that everyone can discover and fulfill their potential. Grounded in more than 65 years of research, ACT’s learning resources, assessments, research, and work-ready credentials are trusted by students, job seekers, educators, schools, government agencies, and employers in the U.S. and around the world to help people achieve their education and career goals at every stage of life. Visit us at https://www.act.org.

About MasteryPrep
MasteryPrep provides districts and schools of all sizes with a suite of test-prep programs and services that help improve student achievement on the SAT
®, ACT®, TSIA2, EOC exams, and ACT WorkKeys® Assessments. Its end-to-end programs and services, which can be implemented throughout the school year in alignment with state standards, include official ACT test questions and enable educators to level the playing field in standardized testing.

Contact: ACT Strategic Communications; publicrelations@act.org

ACT Wraps Up Successful FY25 State Organizations Regional Summit Circuit; New Professional Learning Community Coming Soon

Educators and workforce leaders across the country turned out in force for ACT’s FY2025 Regional Summits, and they made one thing clear: pro...

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Crowded room of a state organization regional event with a presenterEducators and workforce leaders across the country turned out in force for ACT’s FY2025 Regional Summits, and they made one thing clear: professional development is at the top of their list.

That’s why ACT is evolving; in the coming weeks, the State Organizations network will become the ACT Professional Learning Community. The PLC is a free, membership-based network crafted to bring together K-12, higher education, and workforce leaders who are passionate about student success in college and career.

Your free membership gives you access to upcoming FY26 regional conferences as well as discounts, resources and professional development opportunities.

Why attendees loved these events, why they will come back, and why you don’t want to miss upcoming regional events

ACT hosted six well-attended ACT FY25 regional conferences throughout the country, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

“After I attend each ACT state organization event, I walk away both enlightened and energized from learning from the presenters and the other people attending the conference. I am thankful for the ability to learn new ideas from both the presenters and attendees who are working to improve outcomes and opportunities for students by increasing ACT scores.” 
            -Allison Castle | Director of Counseling Services, Harnett County Schools | North Carolina 

Overall, 86% felt the event was valuable as a professional experience, and 90% were satisfied with the entire event. “My favorite part about my work at ACT is the time I spend engaging with educators at our regional events. Working closely with our partners who impact the lives of learners is always inspiring, I love to hear from presenters who have built their own professional learning communities, all with the mission of helping individuals reach their goals, whether that is attending college or moving directly to the workforce.” says Bobby Rush, director of customer experience.

Register now for the ACT Summit in July

You won’t want to miss out on engaging in the innovative discussions covering a plethora of timely topics across interconnected fields as you network with K-12, Higher Ed, and Workforce experts from around the country at the ACT Summit 2025: Connecting K-12, Higher Ed, and Workforce - July 15-17, 2025, Nashville, Tennessee. Find out more information and register here.

Other FY26 ACT regional events to watch for include:
  • December 9, 2025 - Arizona ACT Conference, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona
  • January 13, 2026 – Smoky Mountains ACT Summit, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee
  • January 22-23, 2026 – Southeast ACT Summit, Bryant Conference Center, Tuscaloosa, Alabama
  • February 11, 2026 – Midwest ACT summit, Tulsa Tech Conference Center, Owasso, Oklahoma
Check out our webpage for more regional events to come. We look forward to seeing you!

ACT Celebrates Global Accessibility Awareness Day

This year’s Global Accessibility Awareness Day, celebrated on May 15, 2025, highlights the experiences of more than 1.3 billion people world...

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Accessibility infographic showing universal symbols for various disabilities
This year’s Global Accessibility Awareness Day, celebrated on May 15, 2025, highlights the experiences of more than 1.3 billion people worldwide - including one in six students - living with a disability. Despite its size and growing recognition, this community still faces a gap between the need for accessibility and the availability of truly inclusive solutions.

ACT’s longstanding commitment to accessibility

“ACT has a long history of providing supports for learners with disabilities. Well before the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act, ACT led the industry in accommodations such as extended time, braille, large print, pre-recorded audio, and one-on-one testing,” says Susan Hirsch, Program Director of Accessibility.

Today, ACT continues to lead through its Accessibility Policy and Procedures, public Accessibility Statement, and Accommodations Policy focusing on inclusive design and fair access to assessments.

A timeline of progress:
  • 2020: The first online ACT National Test was created to be the first fully interactive standardized test that could be taken by students who use screen readers.
  • 2021: ACT’s accommodations eligibility policy was aligned with federal special education laws to remove process barriers, resulting in easier access to accommodations for students who have IEPs and 504 Plans and their school staff.
  • 2022: ACT updated its translation policy, allowing item translation for the first time to provide accommodation for Deaf ASL speakers with a reading impairment and cannot hear audio read-aloud accommodations.
  • 2023: ACT’s design of test items began to fully incorporate principles of Universal Design for Learning and Universal Design for Assessment, making ACT assessments accessible to all students from the early phases of item design.
  • 2024: The ACT National online was launched in a new platform for everyone, building accessibility into this iteration from the beginning.
  • 2025: ACT continues to explore new ways to deliver universally designed products more efficiently and is carefully considering using artificial intelligence and automation.
Want to make a difference? Start here:
In the coming year, ACT will continue to improve accessibility across all communications and services and identify ways to empower learners to demonstrate their proficiency confidently and accurately, with as much autonomy as possible.

For more information about accommodations and supports available to students taking the ACT, please visit ACT Test Accommodations and English Learner Supports. To find free online practice tests in alternate formats for all assessments, please visit Practice Tests for Examinees Using Accommodations.



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