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After about two weeks of break, I can now fully appreciate the school year that I’ve just completed. The PSATs, HSPAs, SATs, AP tests, drivers license, Junior paper… all done! It wasn’t an easy road, but it was one that had to be crossed. It wasn’t even the school work that made this past year so difficult (although it was slightly more challenging than past years), it was the combination of school work, tests, extracurriculars, etc. Whatever it was, I’m glad that it’s over and that I’ve survived.

Junior year is important, there’s no doubt about that. Although it might seem daunting and not so much fun, it’s something we all have to do. There’s some things that I wish someone would have told me before I entered Junior year. Lucky for you, I’ve posted them here, so actually read this because it will help you. I’m sure other Seniors will agree with me on these.

1. DON’T look at the big picture. It’s easy to become overwhelmed rather quickly when the obligations pile up, but there are ways to suppress this. Complete tasks as they come and don’t think too much about the total amount of work that you have to do. Focus on the current task at hand and you will get through it. If you try to take everything in at once, you won’t be a happy camper. Take bit size portions, and don’t forget to chew your food before you eat it!
2. FOCUS. I’ll admit, I had a little bit of trouble with this. As mentioned before, focus on what you need to do. Get off of Facebook/Twitter/Reddit/Stumbleupon/etc; put the computer away if you don’t need it. Work until it’s done, and once you’ve finished, you’ll feel less guilty about doing what you were doing before. Don’t think about doing your work, JUST DO IT. It honestly feels so much better when it’s done.
3. Manage your time wisely. Even if you usually don’t do this, use some sort of task system to organize yourself and your time. Things will begin to pile up as the year goes on, and if you don’t dedicate time for each task, they won’t get done in a timely manner. Paperwork, especially. Don’t rely on your brain for this, it will fail you. If you have an iPhone, Reminders is a beautiful thing (as well as Calendar). Wunderkit, a beautifully designed project management app, is a godsend.
4. Take a breather. Don’t work yourself too hard, it’s not healthy. Take breaks; naps are always in season. Stress is your enemy, so fight back, close your eyes, and breath deeply.
5. Do you work. Just do it, it’s not that bad. Even if it’s annoying, it’ll help you somehow. You’ll be a better person because of it.
6. Get on your teachers’ good sides. Honestly, this makes a world of difference. If you form a bond with your teacher, life will just be so much easier for you. Also, this is good recommendations for colleges. You’ll need teachers that like you to write you good recommendations.

If you follow all of these tips, you might even have time for a social life. Have fun in Junior year!