Every day in this life, you hold a new experience, a new memory, a new hope for a brighter future. That is why a new year means a new chapter, a new way to become a better version of yourself, even if it’s through your academics. Therefore, here’s a guide to five things I wish I knew before my junior year:
1-The Dreaded Drop
As you know, junior year is different from all the years of high school. Therefore, there is a chance that you might drop a few grades at the beginning of the term. However, this drop is not the result of not studying enough; it is the result of the change in the environment and system. This slight drop is completely normal and should not put you down; soon enough, you will be able to familiarize yourself with the subjects and the work required, and you will be able to strive again.
2-What you think you want and what you actually want are two different things
Junior year is not to be taken lightly. If you are someone who does not take his or her academics seriously, then the junior year should be your wake up call. Colleges look at the grades of sophomore, junior, and senior years, but they closely consider your achievement in junior year. So even though going out with friends seems more desirable than studying for an exam, it is crucial to prioritize what you want and what you need.
3- Never Stop Learning
In junior year, you will realize that as much as grades are important, they are not a true reflection of your skills. However, that doesn’t mean that you should slack on your studies because colleges look at your grades. It just means that you should shift your focus from “forced to learn” to “ wanting to learn” because, at the end of the day, the skills you develop are the ones that will stay with you forever.
4- Sometimes, a “mental health day” is necessary.
Junior year can get overwhelming, especially with the amount of work that you have to get through, so it is important to remember to take it easy on yourself and remember to breathe. Always remember that no matter what the situation is and how impossible it may seem, there is always a solution. Never let stress overcome you, life will teach you that you are an unstoppable force, so always approach matters with a positive mind.
5- Time works in mysterious ways.
Time flies by. One moment you will be at the hall receiving your laptops and suddenly you’ll find yourself bawling your eyes out at the senior’s breakfast. Always remember to make the most of your junior year. Engage in activities, start a club, or join scouts, whatever you do, remember to shape this year to your liking. You will look back at this year, and if you don’t see a change in yourself, then it’s not enough, so make an impact!