I think that we should all take a moment and thank the people that just make life better — the people who send you home with a take-home test.

These people are a reminder that not all heroes wear capes. Some of them wear button-ups, or sweaters or hoodies, if you’re a teacher’s assistant. These are the real men and women of the hour, the ones who know what’s up. The ones who make me want to come to class by not making me come to class. This one is to you — thanks for the take-home school.

You are my favorite. Take home tests are just the best in every way.

They cut back on so much stress. I mean, just think about a normal test environment. You’re crammed like sardines or Matbus passengers during the winter into a lecture hall where you’re rubbing elbows with the person next to you without even crossing the armrest.

The hall always gets hot from there being too many people along with the fact that it’s already stressful. You’re nervous; you’re sweaty. The guy next to you is sweaty. You’re upset because the guy next to you is sweaty. All around, just a bad time.

Now, let’s look at a take-home test. You ever bring tea into a lecture hall during a test? You ever sit in your own chair and listen to music? No, because these things are either not allowed or highly frowned upon.

Apparently, we can’t let each other enjoy the simple things in life while mentally preparing to get this test back and start your new life as a hobo because the test may come back with more writing in red ink than pencil mark. If there’s one place I feel safe hitchhiking, it’s Fargo.

Not to mention time. Have you ever gone into a test so confident and then realize you have 10 minutes to do the second half?

Suddenly, you’re losing points on simple questions because if you stop and work it out you’ll have to guess “C” for the rest of them.

This is less than ideal with multiple choice and bad with short-answer. With a take-home test, though, you have all the time in the world. Stop and think; doodle a bit; have a snack — the world is your oyster. Like a supportive girlfriend, length is no issue. The extra time is especially nice since it takes me a bit longer when I don’t start until 11:30 p.m.

Teachers, if you’re reading this, then you’ve managed to suffer through my rambling to the end. I want you to know that I appreciate you. I appreciate this practice. I would like to see it more often. Also, if you could work on your handwriting just a tad, not too much, that would be fantastic.