Olivia Carofano, Features Editor
@OCarofano32144
Junior year, the most important year of high school, is or was a main stressor for all students. There is a constant need and strive for your grades to stay in that A+ range to impress colleges, the pressure to excel in extracurricular activities and standardized tests are factors that contribute to junior year being stressful. Students are expected to perform at their best ability while also juggling an overwhelming workload which can sometimes feel impossible. However, it’s important to have some downtime and be able to connect with friends, family and just be able to recharge. As junior year continues to get more stressful it is vital to have moments where you can relax and destress to avoid burnout or lack of motivation.
The pressure to prepare and start looking at college is one of the main stressors during junior year. Students are not only expected to have and maintain strong grades but also to perform well on standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. These standardized tests are a source of stress for all juniors. Students can spend months preparing for these tests. They hire tutors, constantly take practice tests and sign up for and attend prep classes just to get a high score on the exam. These exams are seen as something that is crucial in college admissions but now that some schools are going test optional it might take some weight off of students shoulders.
Academically speaking, junior year is known for increased rigor in terms of classes. Many students take Advanced Placement (AP) classes or honors classes which move at a faster pace and have a larger workload. For many students who are in advanced level courses or not, balancing studying and homework with other activities can be very challenging and a majority of the time students go to bed late, procrastinate on schoolwork and last minute study for a test or quiz they might have the next day. This can sometimes turn into an unhealthy cycle and create anxiety for a multitude of students.
So, how are students dealing with the stresses of junior year? Many are finding ways to manage their time effectively and efficiently. With the usage of planners, digital calendars and other materials that can keep students organized help students break down their tasks into smaller and more manageable portions. By setting aside specific times for studying and organizing their schedules students can feel less anxious. In addition to this, students can and are prioritizing assignments or projects over some of their extracurriculars to manage stress and avoid potential burnout.
Finding a balance is essential. Many students are discovering the value of setting aside time for the things that bring them joy whether that be hanging out with friends or participating in a sport. This allows students to destress and take a break from all their studying and just overall clear their mind. By making sure that students are prioritizing their progress in their classes instead of trying to reach perfection is something that can reduce levels of stress and look at school in a positive light. Overall, junior year is undoubtedly difficult and stressful. Students are learning to manage their time, prioritize their well being and look for support when they need it most.
Personally for me, junior year has been very stressful not only due to the fact that I have to keep my grades up to a certain standard but also because I am juggling multiple commitments. However, hanging out with my friends and family and dancing has been an outlet for me and allows me to feel less stressed. In addition to this, I have used resources like Google Keep to make a list of all the assignments I have in each class so I can see what I have to do each night and check it off when I’m done.
Whether you are in the midst of your junior year or not, you are aware of the stress and anxiety every student goes through particularly in grade 11. I hope this blog reminds you to take a second, relax and recharge and remember that everything will work out how it’s supposed to.
