Junior year is commonly known as the most challenging year for high school students, due to factors such as the ACT, the workload, and college preparation. Academically, it is what colleges frequently look at; however, how to handle the year is not discussed as much.
“I think it’s going to be your toughest year of high school for a variety of reason but just face it, embrace it, and know that there’s a lot of people who want to come along side you and help you succeed,” Michael Bjorklund said
The junior jitters often talked about are during the second semester when the workload is getting heavier, and the ACT is nearing. Burning out is inevitable at some point in the year, the pressure of homework, ACT prep, college applications, and even some scholarships starting up. It’s important for students to have a support system, as well as a balance between extracurriculars, breaks, and homework.
“Don’t procrastinate, don’t skip school,” Kyndall Rios said. “I know that it’s really easy to but do not skip school because it will make you fall behind, and it is just not good. You should really get involved, get involved in everything that you can, get to know your teachers and your classmates because you are going to be graduating with them, so it’ll just be good to get to know people, it’s for your benefit. Go out of your shell, it’s your junior year, academically you will be stressed, but that should not take away from exploring life as a teenager, so hang out with your friends.”
While academics are a very big part of junior year and play a lot into college applications, extracurriculars are also important. Students should try new things out before high school is over and regret it. Extracurriculars bring opportunity as college essay material from junior to senior year and bring long-lasting bonds with others.
“Honestly, I wish I had tried out for more stuff,” Tajada Policarpe said. “I wish I had done something else or started volunteer work because of college stuff. I should probably get on that, and definitely not be a procrastinator and indulge in friendships I probably shouldn’t be. I’ve been through toxicity this year, and I’m kind of over it, and I’m definitely drained. I wish I had known that,”
Finding good friendships that will last after high school is important, but shouldn’t be the focus of junior year. Focusing on work ethic, pushing to do the best academically, and focusing on mental well-being are vital.
“I get that you’re tired and you want to go to bed, but just put a little bit more effort into that assignment. Just answer that last question, study for that last five minutes, push yourself a little harder. It sucks right now, but it will pay off, I promise.” Roslyn Wells said.
