College.

It’s a time of life that is extremely stressful, but it’s also the time when we make some the best memories we’ve made in life so far. We laugh. We cry. We get frustrated about a certain grade or professor or mundane assignment. But we also make some of the best friends, we laugh over stupid things we do, and we make the most of these packed four years. And each year of college is different. Freshman year is a time of transition and explorations. Sophomore year is when we really get serious and try to figure out what we want to do with life.

But junior year? That’s a whole different ballgame.

From someone whose junior year was the most stressful ten months of life, here are 10 things I wish I’d known.

1. It’s hard.

Between upper-level classes, finishing those last gen-eds and extracurriculars, and trying to decide what you want out of life, junior year is hard. Consider this your warning.

2. It’s a balancing act.

Sometimes, something will have to slide in order to get what’s more important done. Sometimes, you’ll have to sacrifice time with friends. Sometimes, classes will demand so much from you that you can’t see straight. But if you keep yourself oriented and balanced, it will make junior year more tolerable.

3. A support system is a necessity.

You will have nights when all you want to do is cry or vent. During these times, it’s important to have at least one friend you can go to at a moment’s notice.

4. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help.

Most campuses these days have a counseling center or a therapist on staff. Don’t be afraid to make an appointment. These people are here to help you get through whatever it is you’re going through. There’s nothing to be ashamed of in using these resources. Mental wellness is important.

5. Water will become a new best friend.

For all that coffee you might drink, water is essential to keep you hydrated. It also keeps you moving and can help keep you awake and alert. So, drink water.

6. People expect a lot from you.

This is probably one of the hardest things about junior year. You’re experienced in college enough that professors have high expectations. But at the same time, the clubs and organizations you’re part of also expect you to keep your word and possibly step up into a bigger role. It’s important to remember though, that all you can do is your best.

7. What others think of you is important.

I know, this one’s weird. But what I mean is, it’s important what professors and club advisors think of you because these will be the people who can write recommendation letters for you so you can be successful in life. A good recommendation can go a long way.

8. The summer between your sophomore and junior years is not as important.

I was that sophomore that was constantly worried about doing something over the summer that would add to my resume. And while I’m glad I received a position at my internship last summer, I realize now that employers tend not to look for experience during that summer as you’re still young. It’s the summer between junior and senior years that’s important.

9. Making time for yourself is a must.

You will have days or nights when the last thing you want to see is another person. You’ll need to unplug and recharge by yourself. We all need “me time” every now and then. You’ll just need more of it junior year.

10. You’re gonna be okay.

This, just like every year before, will pass. Push through, make the best of it, and carry on.

Like I said, junior year is a complicated one. But can also be rewarding and fun if you go into it knowing what it’ll be like and what you can do to stay afloat.