What makes junior year the most challenging year of high school? I believe this grade is highly regarded as the toughest year due to the extensive range of AP and Dual Enrollment classes available, as well as the pressure to score well on SAT or ACT standardized tests, which many students take during this critical year.

For many, it’s also the first year on varsity sports teams, requiring significant time and energy commitments outside of academic responsibilities. 

The demands of junior year often leave students both physically and mentally exhausted. Many find themselves sleep-deprived, unmotivated, and withdrawing themselves from friends and family due to their overplanned schedules.

CCHS student Liesel Sellerberg ‘26 describes this struggle firsthand: “balancing my course load with sports is very difficult with having practice every day. I am really exhausted after practice and struggle to have motivation to get my homework done.”

Another junior, Lily Frenck, shared her experience, saying, “This is by far my most challenging year. The combination of AP classes and preparing for the SAT has me feeling overwhelmed almost every day. It feels as if there is always something to do—whether it’s a test to study for, an assignment due, or practice to attend. On top of that, I’m trying to maintain a social life and good sleep habits.”

During this draining year, students must achieve balance. School counselors, Ms. Eppers and Mr. Stanislaus stress the importance of maintaining healthy habits saying, “It’s especially important to make sure you’re eating and hydrating regularly, getting some sleep, spending time with friends and family, and finding pockets of time, no matter how small, to recharge alone.” 

Whether it’s listening to music, exercising, journaling, praying, or watching a tv show, finding activities that help you unwind is crucial.

As overwhelming as junior year can feel, it’s also an opportunity for personal growth. “Junior year is your first year as an upperclassman,” the counselors remind students. “It should be an empowering time. Look at the new challenges you’re encountering as opportunities to grow.”

By finding coping mechanisms that work and finding balance in their schedules, students can stay motivated and succeed in navigating what may be the hardest year of high school yet.