Advice for 10th Graders: How to Maximize Your Junior Year
January 16, 2025 2025-11-16 0:28Advice for 10th Graders: How to Maximize Your Junior Year
by: Srishti Sawant
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably spent hours scrolling through social media, watching videos about how daunting junior year can be. But don’t worry—here’s your ultimate guide to junior year, packed with insights from current IA juniors. Whether you’re gearing up for standardized tests, exploring course options, or tackling research projects, we’ve got you covered.
SAT, ACT, or Both? The Test Prep Question
The SAT. The mere mention of it can send chills down a junior’s spine. No matter which school you attend, the SAT seems to be the hottest topic—and also the most stressful. The ACT isn’t far behind, adding its own set of challenges. The first step is choosing between these two . . . or even deciding to tackle both. With the SAT now digital and adaptive, and the ACT still paper-based but soon transitioning to digital, each presents a unique experience. In general, the SAT leans on critical thinking and has fewer but more in-depth questions, while the ACT emphasizes a broader range of content with more questions packed into a shorter time frame.
Hannah Glaison, a current junior, shares, “Taking a practice test for each before committing to prep saved me time and helped me play to my strengths.” The decision between these exams can feel overwhelming, but taking diagnostic tests early is your best strategy to identify which test plays to your strengths.
Starting test prep over the summer allows you to focus on other critical junior-year priorities, like research projects or extracurriculars.
Whether you decide to take the SAT, the ACT, or even both, it’s essential to develop a study plan that works for you. Consistency and realistic goal-setting are key—if you miss a study goal one day, try again the next. Wrapping up standardized testing earlier can free up energy for the year’s other priorities, including maintaining strong grades and exploring college options.
Dual Enrollment vs. AP: Decoding the Dilemma
Choosing between Dual Enrollment (DE) and Advanced Placement (AP) courses depends on your goals and learning preferences. DE at IA can be virtual, in-person, or a mix of both, offering flexibility and college credits, while AP courses provide a structured, high school-based experience with broad recognition.
Hannah Glaison, a junior who opted for DE, explains, “Certain DE classes are easier and help with time management, especially if you’re balancing extracurriculars. Plus, they’re great for earning college credit.” She also highlighted the option of minimester courses, which are shorter than the typical semester and free up time.
When deciding which of these AP and DE classes to take, consider exploring the course selection area. Talk to the teachers who teach those classes and ask your peers about their experiences. That’s one of the
best ways to figure out if a class is a good fit for you. Planning carefully and seeking input can make a significant difference in your workload and enjoyment of the year.
Note that although both classes are excellent options, be sure to research how credits transfer to colleges you’re considering.
Junior Year Research Class: What to Expect
Innovation Academy’s Junior Year Research Classes offer on-level, honors, or AP credit, providing a unique opportunity to develop critical thinking and independent research skills. You’ll select a topic you’re passionate about, dive into thorough research, and present your findings.
“Most of the work can be done in class,” says Hannah Glaison, a current Honors Research student. “The first semester focuses on writing drafts and planning, while the second semester is all about implementing your research, collecting data, and presenting it at the IA Showcase.” Siddarth Suresh, an AP Research student, shares, “AP Research pushes you to refine your topic and methodology early on, which makes the process rigorous but also more rewarding.” Starting preliminary research or brainstorming topics over the summer can ease the workload during the school year. This preparation can make the class less daunting and a more rewarding experience.
Avoiding Burnout: Prioritizing Self-Care
Junior year is often described as “the most important year,” which can lead to intense pressure. Here’s how to stay on top of your game without burning out:
- Set boundaries: Schedule breaks and stick to them. Overloading yourself leads to diminishing returns.
- Stay organized: Use planners or digital tools to manage your time effectively.
- Find joy: Balance academics with hobbies and extracurriculars.
- Lean on your community: Talk to friends, teachers, or counselors if you feel overwhelmed.
Hannah offers this practical advice: “Try to maximize the amount of studying you do at school, like during lunch or virtual periods, so you don’t burn out at home.” Realistic goals are essential. Junior year is a marathon, not a sprint—celebrate progress, no matter how small.
Summer Prep: Start Early, Stay Ahead
Summer is a golden opportunity to prepare for junior year. Consider:
- Exploring potential research topics
- Starting SAT/ACT prep
- Shadowing professionals or interning in fields that interest you
- Participating in summer programs, many of which are free or virtual, offering valuable insights and skills
- Researching and applying for internships to gain hands-on experience in fields that align with your interests
Reminder: Many summer programs have just opened their applications, while others are closing soon—and some will remain open later into the season. Staying aware of deadlines ensures that you don’t miss out on valuable opportunities. Starting early and staying proactive can set the tone for a successful junior year without unnecessary stress.
Final Thoughts
Junior year at IA is an incredible journey. While the workload may be daunting, with careful planning and the right mindset, it’s also deeply rewarding. Take the advice of those who’ve walked this path before you, and remember: balance is everything.
Good luck, Class of 2027!
For more information, check out IA’s Counseling & Academic Page.
