PSI soundproofing / ear plugs

[lauren....@gmail.com]

Hey everyone. I am based in Colorado Springs. I've passed 1, 2, 3 at Pearson. Took and failed 4 this past testing period at PSI. I had some serious issues with the on site testing facility and wanted to confirm we're all dealing with the same environment.

The check in room was right next to the testing room. The wall between the two wasn't sound proof. The check in person is also the proctor. So during the test I heard that person going through the check in and check out procedure with everyone. (Whereas Pearson between the 3 sites I tested at all had a hallway from check in to the proctor and they were different people).

I was provided 2 sets of the pathetic foam ear plugs. I have never been able to get these to stay in my ears. I tried both pair. A friend of mine used them but she said she was still able to hear everything through that wall. (Whereas Pearson had over the ear noise cancelling ear muffs, which really did their job). 

My question for you at various locations, was this the same case for you? Having a non-sound proof wall between rooms and no proper noise headphones?

I've reached out the PSI and CLARB to see if I could bring my own wax earplugs and both said no. Wax... no wires so couldn't possibly cheat. CLARB told me that they weren't going to accept it unless I had a doctors note. But not just a doctor saying I need to wear them, but that I have some disability or medical condition that requires them- which I can't come up with what that would be regardless. 

I understand I can take it at home in a controlled setting but it seems like that had nothing but problems and additional stress. If PSI and CLARB can't come to a compromise then I guess I'll try it at home next time. Generally, I just like the official format of being at a testing center vs at home.

So yes, part rambling / part venting, but really just wanted to check that we're all dealing with the same sucky test environment. Thanks!

[Jessica]

The PSI testing center where I took my last exam was located next to an autoshop of some kind, and there was loud party music playing there that I could hear the whole time I was taking my test. It was extremely distracting, I feel your pain.