Junior year is a monumental year. The ultimate goal of every undergrad college student is to graduate in four years. Junior year is where you’re really supposed to have it together. Seeing as I am just finishing up my junior year, I have some advice for people entering their junior year in the fall.
By the time you’re in your third year of college, you should have a good idea of what to expect. But during college, you’re not only trying to figure out what the hell you want to do with the rest of your life, but you’re also trying to figure out who you are as a person, which is often a lot harder than deciding that you want to be a dentist. The great thing about being at school is getting to meet so many different people.
With that being said, after conversing with some of my friends, who are also wise and cute, we have come up with 20 pieces of advice to all juniors in college.
1. Take every opportunity.
If there's a school event, go, even if it seems lame. You won’t remember all the nights you binged "Grey’s Anatomy," but you’ll remember watching your friends win the intramural tournament.
2. If you feel like you’re falling behind in a class, talk to your professors.
Don’t be scared to speak to them. They are literally there to teach you things.
3. Be nice to everyone.
For real, there's no need to be bitchy for no reason. Some of the best friends I've made I would have never guessed that we would be friends.
4. Time management.
I know that you probably get this lecture constantly, but it is so important. Classes are only getting harder, and you have got to be on top of your game.
5. Pick your battles.
Not everything is worth an argument.
6. Not everything is always going to go your way, and that’s OK.
7. Make time for your friends from home.
Being in school for three years now, you basically know who your friends are. But it’s important to not forget about the friends from home you don’t see every day.
8. Set aside time to call your parents, or text them.
They miss you and they always want to hear how you’re doing.
9. If you are given a full semester to write a research paper, do NOT wait until 11 p.m. the night before it’s due to start it.
Because I promise, you will hate yourself.
10. Don’t be so hard on yourself.
For real, remember that you’re human and you’re going to make mistakes.
11. There is nothing wrong with skipping a party to stay in and watch a movie.
I promise, you will not miss anything monumental.
12. Don’t forget to read.
Reading is so important, and it’s how you expand your mind.
13. Pick your roommates wisely.
Figure out what works for you and what doesn’t. It’s OK to not live with your best friend, especially if you two are known for bickering.
14. Take as many pictures as you can.
College years are the best of your life, and you’re going to want to remember them.
15. Be safe.
Seriously, people love you and never want to see you hurt. If you drink too much, call someone, I promise they will come get you. Don’t put yourself at risk if it can be avoided.
16. Junior year is the common year we all turn 21, but you don’t need to buy drinks for everyone.
Be careful with your spending. You’ll thank yourself later when you realize you didn’t spend $30 on vodka sours.
17. Experiment.
Seriously, change up your look. Figure out how you want to dress, find what works for you. It’s one step closer to finding yourself.
18. Go to class.
You’re paying for it, thousands of dollars each semester, go to freaking class.
19. Don’t bring hometown baggage to school, like crazy ex-friends or stupid ex-boyfriends/girlfriends.
Leave it at home. You’ll be happier.
20. Realize it's OK to not be OK.
College is stressful, and you’re going to have meltdowns. Just learn how to deal with them in a safe manner. Self-care, friends, it’s great.
