What's it like to be an SAT proctor?

A little bit stressed but curious - my school needs SAT proctors, and I'm considering volunteering. Does anyone have experience as an SAT proctor? What should I expect during the testing day?

Being an SAT proctor can be a rewarding experience, as you're helping support students during a significant moment in their academic journey. Here are a few things you can expect during the test day:

1. Arrival and setup: You'll typically need to arrive at the testing site well ahead of the students, usually an hour or more before the test begins. This gives you time to set up the testing room, ensure the seating arrangements are correct, and gather the necessary testing materials such as your proctor instructions, test booklets, and answer sheets.

2. Checking in students: As the students arrive, you'll be responsible for checking their identification to ensure they are the registered test-takers. You’ll also need to verify that they've brought approved calculators and materials.

3. Reading instructions: At the start of the test, you'll read aloud the standardized exam instructions, ensuring students understand the format, timing, and other pertinent information.

4. Timekeeping: As a proctor, your primary responsibility is to keep track of time during the test. You'll need to announce when each section begins, give regular time updates, and signal when the time is up for each section.

5. Monitoring the room: Throughout the test, you'll walk around the room, observing the students to ensure they’re working on the correct section and not engaging in any dishonest behavior.

6. Break supervision: During the designated exam break(s), you'll need to supervise students, ensuring they follow the rules regarding the use of electronics, discussions about the test, and other protocols.

7. Collecting materials: At the end of the test, you'll collect the students’ answer sheets, test booklets, and any other required materials, following the procedures outlined by the College Board.

8. Cleaning up: After all materials are collected, you'll need to return the testing room to its original state and report any testing irregularities or issues.

As an SAT proctor, you should be prepared to be detail-oriented, patient, and assertive when necessary. It can be a long day, but you're playing a crucial role in ensuring a smooth testing experience for students. Just remember to stay vigilant, follow guidelines, and maintain a professional demeanor throughout the day.