Congrats on finishing sophomore year! You are officially halfway through your high school career! People often say that junior year is the hardest year of high school, and if I’m being honest, it’s pretty accurate. Junior year is really the first year that you can take a lot of advanced classes, and even if you don’t choose to take that path, the difficulty of the classes increases. On top of all that, you begin the college search, which is stressful in itself. However, even though it’s a pretty difficult year, junior year has many perks. You will be upperclassmen, with privileges in the second semester, prom, the hub, and so much more. Junior year is super fun, but it has its challenges, so here’s some advice!

1. Get involved in leadership positions! In freshman and sophomore year, you were told to get involved with clubs, but now in junior year, you should try and get involved in a leadership position within a club, sport, or within your classes!
2. Challenge yourself with the classes you take! Junior year is really the first time you can take many advanced or more difficult courses. It is a great opportunity to push yourself academically in any way you can!
3. Help the underclassmen out! Becoming an upperclassman has lots of responsibility associated with it, as you are now a leader in the upper school. The underclassmen, especially the freshmen, are newer to the upper school, and need your expertise and kindness to help them adjust and feel comfortable.
4. Don’t stretch yourself too thin! Junior year is pretty stressful, and it is important that you stay happy and healthy throughout the year. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or extensions, and make sure you make time for yourself.

Have a great summer and congratulations on finishing your sophomore year!!