The Dos & Don’ts of Junior Year

Amelia+with+her+trusty+planner%21

Amelia with her trusty planner!

Kate Maidy, Student Life Section Editor

Have you heard troubling stories about Junior year being the most difficult of them all? Does it terrify you, as it did for me? As a current Junior about to finish out the school year, I have to admit that it was quite difficult. But do not worry – you are not alone! Everyone in your grade will have similar feelings. I am here to tell you the dos and don’ts of Junior year that I wish someone told me beforehand.

Dos

  1. Make schedules and manage your time effectively. Before the school year, make sure to buy a planner/calendar or organize everything digitally. I personally prefer a physical planner because it helps me see all that I have to accomplish and what I have completed.
  2. Sleep!!! You will be tired all the time if you do not get to sleep at a good time. I know this may be difficult, but at least try to get an eight-hour sleep a couple of nights in the week.
  3. Allocate free time for yourself. This is so crucial!!! I am the type of person who needs time to put school aside, and I do that by spending alone time watching TV shows or movies. I also love to talk with my parents and friends about topics unrelated to school.
  4. Meet with your teachers. If you do not understand a lesson, make sure to schedule meetings with your teachers. It is always helpful when it comes to the content in the class, but also building relationships with teachers. This is great for when you ask your teachers for college recommendations in the second semester.

Don’ts

  1. PROCRASTINATE!!!! This will seriously get to you when your workload suddenly increases and you have many extracurriculars. 
  2. Overload your schedule. Personally, I overcommit to things and it causes stress. I recommend signing up for activities that you feel would not make you more overwhelmed and that you have free time in your already busy schedule.
  3. Avoid the college topic. As a Junior, it is literally impossible to not think about college. Make sure you consider the SAT/ACT, touring colleges, and meeting with your counselors so you are ahead of the game.
  4. Disregard your GPA. Your GPA is so important for college, so maintain good grades throughout the year. Don’t give up!

I hope my advice about Junior year relieves your anxiety. If you have any further questions or concerns about Junior year, feel free to reach out to me. I am always here to help!