Many people say your junior year will be the toughest of the 4 years. It can be, yes, but that doesn't mean it has to be. By this time in your high school experience 3 things will be expected of you:
1.) You hold yourself accountable for your actions
2.) You are an eager participant in classes
3.) You come to school to excel, not to fool around
By this time, you are nearly 17, can legally hold a job and drive. With such freedoms, come great responsibilities and school is no different. A teacher I once had, opened her class on the first day by telling us, "I already went through school, so if you want to be lazy, fine, it's not my life. I'm here to teach the students who want to learn; I'm not going to waste my energy and planning time on those of you who do not wish to excel in life." That statement literally altered the way I viewed teachers. I realized exactly what a teacher's actual job was, and that - contrary to public thought - they should not be held accountable for a student's failings if it is proven that they did not try.
You choose how far you want to go in life. You choose whether you want to succeed or fail. The only job of a teacher is to help you learn the things you need to know to get to your goals. You manage your time, they don't. No one will be breathing down your neck now to see if your homework is done. No one will baby you to graduation. You carve your own path from here on out. The grades you receive in this year of high school are largely what colleges will be looking at, and if you can't achieve those grades largely on your own, it'll be clear that you wouldn't be able to handle the next level.
But with these new freedoms, this can be a very exciting, fulfilling year if you apply yourself. You can have a great amount of influence on the Freshman and Sophomore classes and become even more involved in causes that inspire you and benefit the school community. You represent your high school and being a conscientious student will empower others and provide awesome opportunities for you to excel in the future.
Be sure to participate as much as possible in your classes, by joining class debates (in a respectful manner), asking questions or volunteering in whatever way needed. You will be encouraged by many teachers to express your mind when an appropriate debate arises. Take the "public speaking" elective. It's a fantastic and fun class the aids students in speaking publicly about a variety of topics, like how-to's, persuasive arguments and informative issues.
Tips:
1.) Have Mirror-Friends Only: only associate and hang around those that share your values and morals. Be a friend to have a friend. By having influences that are positive and encouraging, you can lean on them through tough times and seek and receive wholesome advice.
2.) Get Involved: join clubs that are positive influences like Key Club, I Am Norm or Yearbook. Be someone who promotes inclusion, effort and honesty. Help your teachers get ready for next class or deliver things, when and if able. Consider sports as a way to stay active and represent your school, or join Student Counsel.
3.) Take Electives Geared Toward Career Possibilities: Junior year is when you'll be encouraged to start thinking about your passions and aspirations in life. Don't ever be pressured into "having to have a career choice" before you go to college! Quite often, people in college change majors! But take high school electives that reflect your interests or help you grow in possible career choice(s)
4.) Seek Homework Help: go to review classes and jump on any opportunities to meet with teachers. They know that Junior year might be tough, and if they see your dedication and desire to excel, they'll be extremely receptive to assisting you. Email your teachers with any questions if you are at home. Use apps to help keep you organized and on top of topics covered