I use this same post every year because it is generic and all-encompassing. As the year progresses, the questions you encounter will become much more conceptually dense and will require a great deal of cerebral introspection.
For now, though, we start here.
Welcome to your very first 204 blog post. We will be using this blog frequently, both as a tool and a resource to get the most out of our time, and as a place we can go to share thoughts and valuable information and ideas whenever we need to. Each week, there will be a question posted that you all must respond to in the allotted amount of time.***(Usually, 3 days, but it could be shorter. Plan well.)
These questions may be a jumping off point to class discussions, a support activity to lend insight or knowledge to what we are doing in class, or simply a thought-provoking way to get you to look at the world around you and marvel at your place in it.
These questions will not be simplistic, and they should not be done when you only have 5 or so minutes on the computer; rather, they are questions designed to make you think and your posts should reflect that. You will be graded on your responses by their content, so I would encourage you to try to not leave them for the last minute. Each one will have a word minimum, but don't be discouraged by that. I care much more about the quality of the thought you put into your responses rather than the quantity of the words you use.
Now that the formalities are finished, I would like you to consider the following: You are now entering your junior year. Some people say that this is the toughest, most demanding year of high school for a variety of reasons. What do YOU think? Do you have any expectations about what this year should bring? What are you hoping to get out of your AP Lang class and your junior year in general? What are your fears about this class and/or about 11th grade? Are you where you want to be academically, socially, physically etc? If so, how do you know? If not, why do you think you aren't?
I do not think much about what other people say about junior year; if they say that it is the toughest year, then good for them, but it is too early in the year for me to make up my own mind about this year’s difficulty, but I do have an expectation about what this year should bring: a new vice principal. I want leadership in our building that does not brag about his adopted children or goatee. Parents that hide behind their childrens’ accomplishments have no accomplishments of their own, and, as for the goatee, I have seen better and, no, I am not impressed that he grew it over the summer; if he wants to impress me, he should grow mutton chops.
ReplyDeleteThe only thing I expect out of the AP Lang class and junior year in general is to learn something; that is why I chose to take the class after all. Something that I have never fully mastered grammatically is the use of em dashes and when to use “me”, “myself”, and “I”. Most of the time I use these correct, but sometimes I do not, which gives me something to learn for junior year. My greatest fear about eleventh grade is the fear of having my gym stuff stolen again; last year, some punk stole all my stuff and my locker by taking my lock off and putting his on. That better not happen again.
I am not where I want to be academically because I missed straight A-pluses again last year, but there is hope because AP Statistics is out of my life for now, however I am where I want to be socially. I have already made a ton of new friends this year, from Mr. Weisbeck to Mr. Sopuch, but unfortunately my dear good friend Mr. Sera decided not to come to school, so I could be better; hopefully he comes back soon—I am kidding, of course; I really do not have many friends… Also, I am not where I want to be physically because, as I write this, I am physically sitting in an uncomfortable chair in my bedroom, typing on a crappy computer, longing to be back at Oakcrest, which is somehow cooler than my blazing bedroom. Right now I am putting the “sweat” in Adidas sweatshirt.
Hey Brian! For me personally I would be more than happy just to get straight A's but your worried about keeping your straight A plus streak. But I agree with you about wanting to learn something this year. I think everybody took these AP classes to challenge themselves and get something new out of the class. As for your gym clothes, I remember that day still and its so funny! I hope you have better luck this year with your gym clothes.
DeleteBryan Mango! I remember last year how you told us that you swore someone was taking your gym clothes from your locker and wearing it! And although I whole-heartedly agree on your view of our new vice principle, I think that you should be proud of the grades you get even if they aren’t A+’s because, Bryan, you are super smart and have the most weirdest facts memorized. But knowing you A’s are like C’s while A+’s are like A++’s (see that extra plus), so I hope you get all the A+’s you want this year because I’m sure you most definitely will earn them! Not to mention that you’re challenging yourself to the extreme this year with six, not five, but six AP classes! That’s like every single class but lunch and gym! So I wish you good luck on getting your A+’s and to having the least stressful year you can manage to have!
DeleteBryan, you know that your grades do not define you (although in the past you're grades have been fantastic.) Your six AP classes amaze me and I know that you'll not only excel in them but you'll enjoy them. Though your expectations are high, I believe that they'll be met. Good luck Bryan!
DeleteHey, Br’Yan (sorry couldn’t resist Mrs. Kennedy’s nickname for you). I totally agree with you about Mr. Wilbraham’s goatee. It didn’t impress me either because I have seen cooler and weirder beards like the one you told me about in summer. I also saw that, like Mr. Sera, he went on a rant about his family and himself. Who wants to know if his children are blonde or not? Probably no one! I remember the day your stuff got stolen. I could recall that you went into an infernal rage (is that a thing?). Let's hope that doesn’t happen this year or else the destruction of The Earth is confirmed. Stop complaining about your A-’s. If you really didn’t want A-’s, then why did you take six AP classes? I can’t change your decision so all I have got is good luck!
DeleteYo Bryan, were you hinting at someone when you said “brag about his adopted children and goatee”? I actually saw Mr. Sera in the parking lot the other day. Next time I see him I’ll let him know that you miss him dearly. Thank science that AP stats is over (because you’re atheist)! Now you can focus on grades… And your turtles; Boxie, Sheldon, Piddles, Ducky, and Boxer.
DeleteI can't help but just crack up at this post!! You're right, that goatee is not at all impressive, my dad has a better one than that, and I would like to see some nice old fashioned mutton chops. As for this school year, I don't think you have anything to worry about Bryan, seeing that you are so incredibly smart! But, I do worry about these punks that steal locks and gym clothes. Let me know if you ever need help putting punks to sleep, it's my specialty (I'll give you a business card later). Anyway, good luck this year! I know you don't need it :)
DeleteI have finally entered in the infamous junior year. Freshman year was getting used to the new school and bigger kids and harder classes. Sophomore year was the year no one pays attention to because there’s nothing special in sophomore year. Senior year is when you reap the benefits of your hard work and take it easy, and enjoy all the senior events. But junior year is the tough one.
ReplyDeleteJunior year is the time when you do anything and everything. Become a leader in your extracurriculars, study and ace the SATs, take 4 AP classes, cry from frustration, and hopefully survive till May to go to your first prom.
Obviously, I was not looking forward to the never-ending stress that awaited me. So, yes, I am in college prep classes for Calculus and Physics. Does it feel weird? Yes, I’ve been in advanced classes since elementary school. To have to say the words that I was dropping a level hurt my self-esteem, to say the least. But I had to do it if I wanted to stay so fully committed to choir and drama. They’re both very important to me, and I couldn’t imagine dropping them without me crying about every show I wasn’t a part of.
I’m in some demanding classes, but I also dropped the ball from what was expected of me. It might bite me in the butt later, but for right now, I just want to go through this year as happy as possible and not to go crazy from everything overwhelming me. So although some of my classmates are in for their most demanding year they will ever face academically-wise, I’m trying to stay positive and hope that is not the case for me.
I am hoping for bigger and better things this year. I’m finally (!!!) in select choir, which I only dreamed of for the past two years. I honestly didn’t think I would ever be good enough to get in. I’m happy to be able to sing even more. On top of that, I’m in dance composition too. I like being in a serious dance class that makes me think about the movements and challenges me with complex choreography. And of course, I’m anxiously waiting for drama to start up again because I’m hoping for some bigger roles this year.
Academically, I expect this year to go a lot better for me. I’m not procrastinating as much anymore, which was my big problem last year. In terms of Lang, it’s going to be a lot of work, but I’m excited. In the past couple years, I have really grown to like writing. I can feel already I’ll like this class.
This year, I feel a lot better coming back to school than I have for a long time. I’m ready for this.
Hey Mel! So congrats on getting into select choir and dance, now you can improve even more on something you love doing which is really great! Since you are really into choir and dance its good that you took it easy on some classes so you could focus more on something you actually enjoy doing instead of school work. I remember when we were little and we took dance classes together and I’m happy to see you’re still into it! Although, I feel like you totally should have taken AP calc this year since we both did really good in honors pre-calc last year. But, I’m glad to see you’re trying to stay positive in this stressful year, good luck!
DeleteThanks Altea :) I wish you just as much good luck if not more, I know that cheerleading and school gets tough sometimes, but you'll make it through! <3
DeleteHave found in my 16 years on this earth (not very much but still) happiness is the most important thing in the world. Theres nothing better to calculate a successful life with than the amount of smiles that have crossed your face. Even if some people are not happy with your choice to "drop the ball" who cares. What's important is that you are doing what you love. Ill be the first to say that taking your life into your own hands is necessary but ill be the last one to do it. Congratulations on having no fear and doing you . One day i hope to be that strong.
DeleteHappiness is what you'll remember. Whether or not you aced a test or passed an AP class just barely will never matter to you if you remain happy. I admire that you don't let anything stand in the way of that (besides your subconscious of course). If drama and choir are things that you love and you chose them over a few tougher classes, then who's to say you dropped the ball?
DeleteI think that's awesome that your love for choir and dance is so strong! I think that lowering a level of difficulty so you can focus more on the two things you love is great. Like everybody else said, being happy is more important then taking 6 AP classes. Do what you love and love what you do!
Delete<3 <3 :) :) Thanks everyone
DeleteHey Meli, I actually commend you for all that you do and still being able to do all the AP classes you do. It's definitely a lot and not everyone can do it. Junior year is going to be tough, but I believe you can handle it :) Also keep on to the joy you get from writing, it will for sure help you in the long run. Also congrats on choir!!! And good luck in all the roles you are trying this year, I hope you get them. :)
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DeleteHey Melissa!! Well first when I started reading your blog and I glimpsed ahead and saw the part where you mentioned dropping drama and choir I panicked of course because I don't know what I would do this year if I didn't have someone taking AP classes like me in musical season to complain about how difficult it is to manage drama and class at the same time. But, then of course I read on and I think the decision you made for Calculus and Physics was very wise and noble. You decided to drop a level in the long run to benefit yourself, so don't think you should be hard on yourself at all. Most of us want to drop a level but we just don't have the guts too. You did so I applaud you for that. And overall I think your going to do great this year because I know you can, you can handle anything, Just don't lose hope when you get stressed!
DeleteI do not have set expectations for my junior year. I try not to base my own opinions of what experiences should be like based off of what other people say their experience was like. For instance, junior year for me may be great while for others it may have been their worst year. I also try not to have expectations in general because I tend to set them far too high, which only results with disappointment, no matter how nice the outcome may look to others. However, I have put myself through a lot of negativity throughout high school so far, and do not plan on continuing that trend which would be considered more of a goal than an expectation. This year, I will aim to gain even more confidence than I already have and to better understand who I am with a clearer mind than I have had for the past years. As for Lang specifically, I want to improve my writing because it is my passion and future career goal. I look forward to criticism.
ReplyDeleteOften I lose myself in my social environments, which aren’t always ideal. I am afraid, to some extent, that they will always be a barrier holding me back from being successful. Contrastingly, though, I am afraid to an equal extent that without my chosen group of friends and chosen environments, I will be lead to conform to certain standards of society which I am not willing to do. This year specifically, I am afraid of the decisions I will have to make about my future for that reason.
I am not entirely where I want to be in any aspect, but who is? Academically, I am way behind where I have the potential to be. I plan on changing that, and that’s all that can be done about it. I will not dwell on the reasons why I did not apply myself in previous years nor will I concern myself with what others have to say about it. I’ve heard enough criticism to know the severity of what I was doing. I am smart enough to realize my mistakes and come up with solutions to fix them. Socially, I’m happy. I would rather have a small group of friends who I really truly know than an inconceivable amount of “friends” that are more like acquaintances. I don’t need anyone more than who I have. In fact, who I have is more than enough because I have become self-reliant and independent as a result of losing people and having no other option but to do so. Physically, I would like to re-gain strength that I have lost, due to simple negligence of my own health, which I am improving on day by day. There’s always room for improvement, in all regards.
I 100% understand your views on high expectations and disappoints because I, myself, like any other person, have dealt with being let down before. But the thing is that we shouldn’t be afraid to expect more of things when we know we deserve better. And I’m completely and honestly sure that you deserve so much better than what you’ve gone through in these past years of school. Not to mention that I’m proud that you’re going to try to walk away from such negativity and experiencing the greener side. A lot of people try to figure out who they are in high school and I hope that you discover who you really are and see you reach your full potential. The fact that you know that you love writing and want to do something with it in your life puts you one step ahead of the game, because personally I have no clue to what I’m doing with my life outside of high school, and seeing that you have a goal and the drive to accomplish it makes me happy. Keep pushing forward and never dwell on things you won’t remember within a few years!
DeleteI love this. Your view on how to approach junior year is admirable and your social surroundings sound ideal. I honestly hope that you get everything you want out of this life.
DeleteIf you ask me you're doing pretty well. You mentioned that other people saying how good you're doing doesn't matter that much, but I'm still saying that. And about the barrier you spoke of, well everyone has one of those, at least they suppose to. Life is not great for everyone, but some people just choose to not do anything about it. In you're case though, you're trying to change your lifestyle and improve for the best. Coming from where you did, as you may have mentioned, to where you are at and where you want to go, that's a big deal. The motivations you have set for yourself right now are just briliant. Just go with it and no matter what negative barrier stands in your way just break it, no matter how long it takes and if you can't do it on your own ask someone to help. ASK ME! I'm just a text away. And the way you feel about having just a few good friends, I agree with you on that one also. COMPLETELY DO!
DeleteHey Dana I agree with you in every way, you worded everything just right talking about how you feel you can achieve more in the class room also expectations are the same setting them to high can end up making you stumble which I can relate to. Relationships and friends are another thing, surround yourself with negativity and that's what will radiate off you and it is a good idea to get out of I struggle with it too. Being independent is one of the best traits you can have you get things in life done quicker and your way. Think for yourself and you will truly win and I hope you do good this school year.
DeleteJunior year: the hardest, utmost aggravating and challenging year of our high school lives. At least according to most. Honestly, I believe that junior year is unique to everyone. For instance, although one might be taking a lethal amount of AP classes, they may have nothing else to worry about in their lives. On the other hand, someone else may fly through his or her classes, but may feel like the universe is against them in every possible way. Such as through drama and parental pressure and anxieties and unvoiced personal doubts and everything else that can go wrong in the be-all end-all life of the average sixteen/seventeen-year-old. And maybe most people are like me, the one who suffers from being a mix of the two and just wants to be able to get through high school in one piece. Junior year is the hardest year not only because of the workload or because it’s the year colleges mostly look at, but also because it’s the year most of us try to figure out who we are as a person and try to answer the big question of who we want to be when we are adults, either in career or as a person.
ReplyDeleteHopefully this year will bring me new chances and opportunities. Chances to make new friends with people I’ve known since elementary school and chances to figure out what I want to do with my life. Opportunities to get out of my comfort zone and conquer the fears I have of public speaking and sharing my opinion and opportunities to get involved and try new things.
Truthfully, when choosing classes I decided to take AP Lang because it was just another English class I was required to take to fulfill the requirements of having four English classes to graduate. But now knowing that AP Lang isn’t just about English and grammar, but also so much more, that’s what I hope to get out of this class and even my junior year experience. However, my greatest fear, in this moment, of eleventh grade is that I will get to caught up in doing school work 24/7, and forget to have fun and get the most out of my high school year, especially since I get my license this November (you know if I don’t fail my driver’s test, which I most likely will).
I am where I want to be academically considering I’ve been doing well in most of my classes, except for AP Chemistry. Socially, however, on a scale of 1 to 10 I’m most definitely a 4 or a 5 due to my lack of outgoingness (is that even a word?) and communication skills. If by physically, you mean my physical health, then I would say I’m okay. I do do a rigorous sport, but am not the fittest person in the world, I mean look at me. Ask me to run a mile, sure; ask me to run three, no way in hell.
I completely agree with you when you say that junior year is unique to everyone! Every experience is different for each person. You will definitely be able to conquer the fears you have because I think all of us have been there, or still are. Fears are meant to be overcome and you'll find a way to do it. You shouldn't be afraid to voice your opinions, because they're only opinions. Judgement isn't always nice to see or hear but in the long run it will help you better yourself in different ways. I can still remember making that speech freshman year and totally crying because of how awful it made me feel but it lead me to realize that once you do it once and give it your best it only gets easier from there. Good luck on your driver's test, though. You'll be fine!
DeleteThanks Dana! I'll definitely show you my license when I get it! That speech sounds like a horror story! I remember how in Mr. Weber's class in 7th grade we had to do a speech on a job profession and I was talking so low that the first row couldn't even hear me!
DeleteCynthia you're a great driver! I was perfectly fine when you drove me home. Honestly you drive better than my brother, and he somehow got his driver's license, so don't worry you will too! Public speaking is really hard for me too, but we are all in this together. Nobody really likes to make speeches, so I'm pretty sure most people will just be focused on themselves and on how well they did. And don't be afraid to speak your mind! If you say something wrong, just move on. But when you voice your opinion, you'll get something out of it. But who am I to tell you, I barely talk in class myself. I guess we both have to work on that!
DeleteI completely understand where you're coming from. Being that one of those mixed up kids is really though, I know because I'm one of them. Socially I'm like you. I can't start conversations well with random people and I'm shy if I sit in a class in which I know no one. I'm just loud with friends around and act dumb. Just so you know the fact that someone is quite, someone maybe like yourself, means that he/she is intelligent, so you should be in a good place. And as for the rigorous sport you mentioned, well... everyone sucks at that in different ways. Just in general though, I understand you completely about how tough this year will be, but just try to keep your head up and be optimistic. There's always good in every bad.
DeleteCynthia, you said that on a scale of one to ten, socially, you are a four or five. However, you did not specify whether one was the best or the worst, so I am just confused. Hopefully one is the best because you are almost there. It is too early to say that you are not doing well in AP Chemistry; I failed the safety quiz because I am a hazard to myself and all those around me. To do well in Chemistry, just make sure to keep your patio clear of holes. As for the running three miles thing, I cannot run three yards without something chasing me, so good for you.
DeleteIt’s my junior year which is, essentially, just another freaking year of school. The next 170-ish days might be tough because my future is on the line. Damn, my future. It’s tough planning for a future where you have no clue where the hell it’s going or who the hell you are now.
ReplyDeleteThis year, I expect to fail, succeed, cry a little, laugh a lot, and I expect to change. I guess I’ve never been the best with change or crying, but we’ll see. I hope that my junior year and AP Lang help me figure out who the noodle I am and where I want to be. So that when people ask that stupid question, “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?”, I can stop saying things like, “happy” or “famous” or “rich”. I hope to have a clue.
I’m scared that I’m too stupid to be taking 4 AP classes, like come on? What was I thinking?? Taking two last year was actually fairly easy because AP Mr. Sera was a fail to begin with, so I only really worried about AP Stats. This transition will be hard and I’m scared of the sacrifices I will make for school, like extracurriculars or sleep or my social life.
Starting off this year, I’m doing alright academically. I know that my first tests are always the weirdest because you aren’t used to the set up. At least that’s what I told my mom when I got a 69 in AP Chemistry. Honestly, getting bad test scores are the worst to stress about. So, instead, I just know I’ll do better next time, laugh, and let my fake mom(Mr. Clark) hang all my bad grades in his room. I think I’m pretty content of where I stand socially and I guess I’m not that worried about where that even is. However, where I stand physically is not that great. I really don’t understand why after a year and a half my leg still hasn’t fully recovered from my bone infection. I sometimes wake up in pain and unable to move for twenty or so minutes, but this information stays between us because I refuse to tell my mother. She will ship me right to the hospital which is the only place I refuse to go. Trust me, I know I need to go to a doctor, but I’m just not prepared for them to tell me something is wrong with me and for the people I care about most to worry. I’m ok.
Yo tay van! So honestly I have no clue what was going through your head when you decided to pick 4 AP classes because I’m struggling with 3 and we’re not even half way done September. But knowing you, I totally think you will be able to get through it even though you might cry a little. Its only been 3 weeks and every night we manage stuck on the homework and we have to call each other on FaceTime for 2 hours which is the only thing that gets us through it. Anyways, as long as we work together I feel like we can make each others years a lot less stressful and we can succeed together!
DeleteT Van Im always excited to hear whats going to come out of your mouth next or in this case read what you typed. Not only is it always interesting but its so funny. You're going to do fine in your classes you always have. Id expect nothing less than A's from you. You like to say you fail and that you're dumb but i know that you always pull through. Just like with your leg... go to the doctor we can't lose you you're the glue that holds the group together. Ill be with you these next 170ish days... I'll most definitely be crying but I swear I'll be with you. We can go tell mom about all the things we do this year during study hall, good and bad.
DeleteHonestly, I think your going to be perfectly fine taking 4 AP classes because you are so smart. You always say that your dumb which is not true at all. Your the one getting 100's on chemistry tests last year while I got 70's. But I agree with you about being scared of all the sacrifices we are going to have to make, like not getting sleep. Hopefully, everybody will get through this year without crying though.
DeleteYOU HAVE TO GO TO THE DOCTOR, TAYLOR. It's not normal for your leg to be hurting 2 years after an infection. I'm begging you--GO.
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DeleteWell first of all let me start off with agreeing with Ms. Bunje, Taylor you need to see a doctor for that leg, girl 2 years is a hell of a long time! But, in all seriousness (even though year leg is serious) I think you are going to do absolutely fine this year. And I know how much that annoys me when people say I'll do fine because they don't know what it's like to be in my classes, but even though I don't know you really well I do truly believe you will be okay and you will pass your classes. You seem like the type of person who won't let that one bad grade get to their head and I think that is great you can use that this year to not get stressed easily. And I don't think you would have let yourself take 4 AP classes if you did't know you can handle it. So, good luck with your junior year it won't be too had!
DeleteTaylor you are my favorite Asian ever! Even though you get on my last nerves. I completely understand where you are coming from with the whole "what do you want to be when you grow up?" My mom has asked me at least 5 times in the past two weeks. I get so annoyed when people asked me and I have to make up some ridiculous answer. Jesus Christ people how am I supposed to know what I want to major in? I am only 16! So hopefully by the end of this year I will have some sort of idea of what I want to be when I grow up, or at least what I like to do. So that when people do ask me it won't be an awkward silence. My grandmother would kill me if she heard me say the Lords name in vain. So sorry if I offended anyone. That will be another thing on my list to work on.
DeleteTay go to the damn doctor I'm really gonna tell Momma Q and she'll grind you up on the way to the hospitable. Honestly, I feel you on the fear of AP classes but if there is anyone that can handle it, its you girlie so don't stress. Your social life will stay in tact because we're bffs for life and I'll come over with my homework anytime you want dumpling.
DeletePeople always tell me that junior year is by far the toughest year in high school. But I think it totally depends on the person and their work ethic. For me I think that junior year will actually be the toughest year for me. I say that because I'm taking the most AP classes I ever took in one year and I have to take the SATS as well. I went from taking zero AP class’s freshman year, to two sophomore year, and now three AP classes junior year. Mentioning that I think that this year will be the hardest year as far as the workload. Also, everybody always tells me that colleges only look at your junior year so that could place more stress on some people as well. Overall, I just think that this year is going to be a lot of hard work but if I push through all of it I can manage. I expect this year to be very challenging but in return I think that will make me a better and more intelligent person. I can already tell from the work I got in all my classes so far that it is going to be a lot of hard work.
ReplyDeleteMy fears about this class in general are not being “good” enough or live up to the AP standards. But, my overall fears for this school year are not passing one of my AP exams again because then I feel like the whole year was a waste and I'll let my parents down. As for right now I am where I want to be physically and socially because I don't have a problem with those two things. As for academically I want to push myself harder this year and try to get the most out of each class. I don’t want to just study materials to know them for the test. This year I actually want to be able to absorb the information so that I can use my knowledge in the future. Even if that means staying up until 2:00am some nights, I would be willing to do it if it would make me better.
Hey Jasmine! So I have no clue why you have this idea that you “won’t be good enough for AP” because I know you will be able to push through it. Yes this will probably be one of the hardest school years ever but don’t be to hard on yourself. Additionally, I’m sure your parents will be proud of you no matter what grade you get as long as you try as hard as you can, but don’t go too hard that you forget about other important things. Just try and have fun this year and don’t let the work stress you out too much!
DeleteJasmine! I don't know why you're taking all these challenging classes when you really don't have because you're already accepted into college, but i'm proud of you for doing it. And I'm sure that your parents are too! You are definitely "AP material", just trust yourself and you'll be fine. It's going to be hard, I'm worried too, but we'll get through it together. Last year I learned quite a bit about politics from Gov, so I can't wait to see what I'll learn this year!
DeleteI think you can do anything if you put your mind to it. If you study and work hard and not let anything get in your way you wont have any problems. Junior year is very important but you already got a full scholarship so you don't have to worry as much as other people do. Your parents are proud of you and will always be no matter if you fail or succeed in life. They will be there to pick your back up from where you fell down at. If you put your mind to it your junior year will be full of excitement!
DeleteStop worrying about AP classes; three may be a husk, but stupid people in college take the same classes you are taking now. The only difference is that you decided to pursue knowledge earlier in life and thus will be rewarded with knowledge sooner and sooner will you unmask the darkness of ignorance and gaze upon the all-knowing blazing face of God, metaphorically speaking, of course.
DeleteGirl I feel you on the AP tests. I feel like if I do poorly on them, I'll feel ashamed of myself, like I didn't hold up my end. As of your AP classes, you'll be just fine jasmine. I know you will be. Just keep studying and maybe find a way to juggle all the classes without staying up until 2am😂 But I do agree with you that this year will be the toughest year. All the colleges looking at us, the college visits, the SATS. I feel like the whole world is on our shoulders. Just keep studying girl
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ReplyDeleteIve started off this year imprisoned in my home for my ability to go get what I want. This is going to be a hard year for me I can already tell. So when people say this is the most demanding year of high school I completely agree. Not only are my AP classes going to kick me into gear but the fact that I'm cut off from the world will probably play a major role. I don’t expect much from this year other than homework, long nights, and coffee overdoses. My years in school have been easy I slide by doing as little as possible hoping and praying what I retain from just paying attention will be enough. So far this method has worked for me, but I expect this year, that will change. Im going to have to work harder than ever before and I'm not sure I'm ready for that. I guess we’ll find out. I have always really enjoyed writing but only when its something i care about. This year I'm hoping lang teaches me how to write even when I don't want to. I believe its a class thats going to teach me a lot about writing but also a lot about life. I want to understand. I don't know exactly what I want to understand but I'm hoping Lang clarify’s that for me as it has done for many others. Im scared of the work as I said before I don't know what I'm capable of but I want my best work to be enough. I want a fresh start this year, I have a clean slate and I want it to fill up with my accomplishments. I need to do something for me, I've never done that before so its new territory, and it terrifies me. My academics have always been good enough in my book. This year I want them to be more than good enough. Socially I’ll probably be a wreck all year because I'm thrown off balance now being cut off and all. As for my physical standards… I'm gonna end up running again soon I swear.
I hope all those summer nights stargazing and the summer days on the boat were worth what you are about to endure. I have been in your position and i can tell you its going to be so hard just seeing your mom dad and two brothers but soon enough everything will be over. Your mom will forgive you eventually and you guys will be fine again just like old times, i can tell you that from experience. Your academics will do just fine and i know they will be more than good enough because that’s you, you put your mind to something and you accomplish it, hence the reason why you are grounded. You will be okay this year even though right now It seems like you wont. For right now all you can really do is focus on your academics as you said on your post and the day that Sue lets you out will come with time.
DeleteMy big sister always has advice for every situation. Love you!!
DeleteSam Rocap, my favorite AP baby. I believe that you are not the mistakes you've made or the trouble you've been in. You are going to get through this. Take this fresh start and make it great.
DeleteMy lil Samantha what are we going to do with you! Honestly I know things suck right now and you feel so alone when you're just sitting there but things will get better. Please take it from me, we all know how Karen is and I made it out alive and so will you!! I know you don't exactly want to think of it this way but this might just be one huge learning experience and the time you have alone is what you need. Even though you are in prison I will still always find a way to get you out! Hang in there and keep smiling.
DeleteIt's Sam Rocap!!! Sorry that you are kind of in prison even though you are like every criminal ever and swear that you're innocent. So let me rephrase my apology and say that I'm sorry to you, and the rest of the criminals out there, that you were caught. I know exactly how you feel when you say that you just slid through school or that you never really had to push yourself. Don't fret though because I got you, and you got me. It shouldn't scare you to accomplish things for yourself because you low key do it all the time. Everytime you race Maserati, you are accomplishing something for yourself so don't be scared! Trust me, you got this. If you run away again, just know you will be caught and your door will be gone and you will be miserable. Good luck, Criminal #83279!!!
DeleteSam your attitude going into this year is pretty admirable. You got this just make your imprisonment lit and useful. Hopefully your sentencing won't last too long though.
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ReplyDeleteIm definitely the biggest "Criminal" that has every walked the halls of the Rocap compound even though I did nothing illegal. I guess I'll get over it and learn to live in this prison of a house. - Inmate #83279
DeleteOkay so, if you’ve ever seen me in the hallways of the falcon nest you would wonder why there is a sixth grader running around, but its just me. I honestly can’t believe I’m a junior when I totally look like I should be sent back to William Davies Middle School. In all honesty, this should definately be the hardest year ever because no one told me it wasn’t a good idea to take 3 AP classes along with honors anatomy. But after I hopefully get through the year I expect to have a plethora of new knowledge from all these super tough classes. Even though I will totally be crying at least 4 out of the 5 school days due to the homework and since cheer is life I will be very busy.
ReplyDeleteThe only class I actually enjoy going to though is Lang, not even trying to gas the situation. I know that in the end I will gain so much information from this class even though it may be my hardest. Since english is without a doubt my hardest subject I hope that this year will make me stronger in it and prepare me for my future english classes. This class will make me cry some nights but I know its for the better and I will be thankful for it in the end. As of this very moment I have all A’s but then again it is the third week of school and all those A’s will drop by next week. But, academically as of last year I am doing just fine, even though I was kicked out of top 10 and now am number 11 but thats the least of my worries. As long as I don’t fail I will be happy, even though I think about dropping out at least 8 times a day. As the year goes on my social life will probably be out of the picture because again, no one told me it wasn’t a good idea to take 3 AP classes. Oh and about the physical aspect, I love chicken nuggets and ice cream so this is about as good as its going to get.
Awww my little sixth grader! Everyone knows that you're not a sixth grader and you don't have to worry about failing because I know you'll do anything to avoid the wooden spoon. As for crying we can cry together because even though I don't have three AP classes i do have two and we all know Sam Rocap is going to be a stress case all year. Being locked up and all once I get my phone back, well if I get it back, I'll have plenty of time to FaceTime and we can figure this year out together. I guess Oovo is going to have to make a comeback this year if we're all planning on face timing every night.
DeletePlethora! Haha, I seriously look for that word in everything you write! You’re everyone’s favorite little nugget so don’t fret about your height! But anyways, knowing you you’ll definitely find a way to make it through this school year in one piece. Somehow Altea you always seem to be able to balance double cheer and school work well enough and manage to be in the top of our class. Although, not to scare you, if you do decide to do crew it may be little bit harder. Also, don’t worry about your class rank! One thing I’ve learned during my long two years of high school it’s that whatever grade you’ve received doesn’t matter as long as you know you’ve work your butt off for that grade! You can do it and I believe in you! Plus, if you ever need help I’m literally a minute walk from your house!
DeleteThanks for keeping it real as always Altea. But don't set yourself up for a rough year with a negative outlook. It's not crazy to take those classes and cheer every day, because you've already been doing it! These past couple years you've been kicking butt in school and cheer. As long as it makes you happy and it's what you want, you'll have awesome grades this year and your team will win a bunch of championships. Just keep doing you!
Deletemy munchkin! you honestly don't look like a sixth grader. But I honestly think you will be fine. I'm with you on cheer and homework because I do cheer, track and field, choir and dance so its really hard to manage. You just have to set a schedule and stuff and make sure school comes first. You can get that spot in the top 10 right back just strive for bigger things and you will achieve it!
DeleteAltea, you are honestly one of the best people i know and continue to make me laugh every day. Although you were kicked out of top 10 that honestly doesn't matter. What you honestly learn and know at the end of the year is what matters and I'm sure we will all be learning a lot this year. This year will go by so fast you won't even notice how "hard" it was and by the end of your junior year everything will be worth it. Don't worry though we can cry on FaceTime together.
DeleteTHANKS EVERYONE FOR THE SUPPORT I LOVE YOU ALL AND I HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT YEAR, GOOD LUCK XOXO
DeleteI swore that I saw you at the William Davies Middle School 6th grade orientation! Weren't you the girl who cut my brother off to get a picture with the dragon and get the Davies Dragon Swag Bag???? Just kidding, you already know that it's me and you every night on facetime getting through this year. Even though you call me at the weirdest times because "cheer is life", just know I will try my best to be there for you because I know you will do the same. I completely agree that Lang is the only class that I don't dread going to because it's interesting. In AP calc and APUSH, you already know that we're counting the milliseconds until the bell rings.
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ReplyDeleteWalking in freshman orientation two years ago was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. Especially not knowing anyone except one person. I had no idea I’d be here typing these words as a junior. Honestly never knew I’d make it this far. One more year I’ll be a senior. One more year I’ll be all grown up
So, what do I think? I have no flipping clue. I still think I'm in pre-K drawing a flower with crayola crayons. Since that can’t happen I’ll just write this. Everything you do in life should be hard. That's how you learn. Of course taking 2 AP classes are hard. I have no idea how people take 4!!! I applaud you. Of course it’s hard when you do sports and you don't get home till 7. Of course it’s hard when you live with different family. Of course it’s hard but it's okay. I'm just looking forward to getting good grades and not slacking like I did everyday before September 1. My expectations are high. If I aim for low then what’s the point? If i don't succeed, hey I tried. what can a women do?
I'm trying to learn something that I didn’t think was possible. I'm trying to talk about my opinions without sounding like a four year old. I wanna have intellectual conversations with people that aren’t small minded and childish. I wanna have friends that are absolutely MY friends. I want things. I want my junior year to be everything it can be. I want Ms. Bunje to make jokes that my class doesn’t laugh at (I think there amusing.)
My fears about AP Lang are that I won’t learn. Which I highly doubt won’t happen but just saying. I fear it’ll run off track and no one will see it, even myself. My fears for this year are that I won’t grow up with the morals I’ve always had or I’ll treat people terrible. Also, what if everything goes downhill from here? I don't want that so I won't let it happen.
I want to become better academically. Focus on school instead of Netflix. Is my socially life okay? Yes. I have good classmates and friends but I only really got myself and I’m okay with that. I'm in good shape if I say so myself. I don't want to be skinny nor do I want to be unhealthy. I know these things because I'm witnessing them first hand. So I know what I want to be, how I want to be it and how to look while doing it.
I love you so much Alyssa everything you said has just trickled in the back of my mind. Everything you just said gives me reasons why were so close.We all have fears and a lot of us share your fears like myself your last paragraph relates to me so much I'm so terrified I really am
DeleteI love you crazy chicka!! Always here for anything you need!!!
DeleteLol I watch Netflix after I come home for school all the time 😂 , I guess that's got to stop😖. Your words are very inspiring and makes me want to study everything for no reason just to insure myself I won't fail anything.
DeleteP.S. I also like the jokes that the teacher's tell that go unnoticed by students.
I'm with you on learning not to sound like a four year old, girlie! I've never been good at grammar (I actually just spelled "grammar" wrong but shout out to auto correct!) or vocab but I really hope this year I learn everything I've missed up until this point. And in order to learn what I strive to learn, I to need to focus less on Netflix. And by the way... you look amazing!!
DeleteI'm so happy we met freshman year honestly who would've thought we'd be where we re now because of some crazy study hall. Girlie we can practice intellectual conversations anytime. I'm always here for you even if I shut my door as soon as we get home if you're having a hard time I'm right here. One house, One team, One struggle.
DeleteWhen it comes to mind, I still think that I’m in the eighth grade. I feel like my schooling has passed by me so quickly. However I am sitting here, as a junior, writing this blog. None of it feels real (except the work load). I am still a newborn to this eleventh grade so I have no conclusions yet, but I only have one expectation: MORE. More living my life by my own terms and not always fighting with myself. More people looking at me as a person and not as a standardized test score. I don’t want colleges to look at me as another average SAT score or another average GPA. I want them to see my motivation more than my failures.
ReplyDeleteWithin the first two weeks and those things are a very real teacher who taught me more about myself in two days than I’ve known in sixteen years and a whole new understanding of the grading system. Numbers matter, but they don’t matter as much as what you actually take away from a class. My worst fear about this year as a whole is not being able to keep up. I’m afraid that no matter how hard I try, I’ll somehow fall behind.
Academically, socially and physically, I’ve got no clue where I am. I am going to keep going though. Wherever I am. I’ll probably figure out where I am when I get to where I’m going and look back and realize all the mistakes I made along the way. I don’t know where that is either. If you know where I’m going, don’t tell me. I want to figure it out by myself. Although, you are welcome to join me on this journey called life.
Bre I 100% agree with you on how you want people to look at you as a person more than a number. And believe me, so many people look at you as an amazing and beautiful person btw. I know you feel stressed right now and you might not know where your path is leading you but I can tell you this, you have a bright path and wherever it leads you will be just fine.
DeleteSame here Bre! I remember when I was like 6 years old and thought that high schoolers were so cool and mature. I thought so many things would happen and change before the time that I got to highschool, but here I am already halfway through and I don't really feel any different. I scared that the rest of my life will fly by in the same way. I have no idea what's going to happen with my life, and I doubt that I ever will. But I believe that everything happens for a reason, and whatever path that I'm on now will take me to where I need to be. I'm going to trust in myself, and you should trust in yourself too!
DeleteBeing my goalie and one of my close friends, I believe I have the right to say your future is very bright. Well after the Cedar Creek game maybe a little dim lol. I think we all get a little lost in high school and think we can't find our way but we will and we'll look back at this and laugh at the fact that we thought we were stuck in this little hole.
DeleteThat would be ideal. Colleges actually looking at applicant’s personalities and motivations instead of just an SAT score or class rank. Luckily colleges are starting to overlook class rank so that’s half the battle. Hopefully one day colleges will get to know their applicants instead of meeting them once through an interview while the applicant puts on a mask. That’s a great outlook on life, always striving for more.
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DeleteBre, you will do just fine this year. I have known you for 3 years now and have seen you work so hard for what you have. I know you will get into college and achieve whatever it is you put your mind to. I have to agree with you when you say that this year you want to live by your own rules, that’s a goal that I've set for myself and have yet to achieve but i know its coming soon. I really wished colleges could look at your personalities and not your GPA or test scores because you are a great person everyone needs to meet once in their life. I also know though that your grades are amazing and colleges will not be able to say no to you.
DeleteTo my love bug, and sorry Ms. Bunje if this is supposed to formal.... oops. But to my loving friend, all I can say it I love how you think and speak. And that you will not fall behind in anything because I'll be here to help guide you, even though sometimes I don't know how to even guide myself. But you will excel Bre. School is ending so very soon, but all we can do is enjoy the ride. Love you xo, you'll do amazing this year!!!
DeleteI completely agree with you on how grades matter but not as much as what you get out of that class. Because no matter what test grades you got it doesn't mean you didn't get anything from the class or lesson. I also like that you want to single yourself out from everyone for colleges so that they see you're doing your best and know that you will do the same there at their college. And I like your motivation, you will do fine this year Bre.
DeleteYet another school year has begun and if I said I feel the same way I felt in the beginning of freshman and sophomore year id be lying. I've been dreading junior year since the 7th grade. Junior year is indeed the most important year of high school because its the year that colleges look at the most, or so I've been told many times by a very smart lady (Kyle's mom). College and what I do after high school is so incredibly important to me and I'm not going to half-ass all of my work this year like I did last year. Am I nervous for all of the work I'm going to get this year? Yes, absolutely. Am I already stressing about finals, college visits, and whatever other important things are happening this year? Hell yes.
ReplyDeleteTo me junior year is so much more important than a couple of letter grades. To me junior year is the year where you get the learn the most about yourself and the people around you. We're going to have to actually take time management seriously and also learn the meaning of self worth. So many people in our school and in our grade specifically take grades so seriously that it’s the only thing they care about. They never take time to work on themselves and once they get their grades back and see that they don’t have straight A's then they think their lives are over. We're all worth so much more than any grade on any stupid test. I don’t do any of the things I do expecting to be the best and honestly I couldn’t care less about being the best at anything. I do the things I do to challenge myself and to prove to everyone that I'm capable of great things.
I am honestly not expecting all that much from my junior year as a whole except a few good grades, a few bad grades, more unnecessary drama, and a bunch of sleepless nights. Because after all, who needs sleep anyways, am I right? AP lang on the other hand has been on my mind since freshman year. Writing is something I've always loved and I'm finally in a class where I get to do that and its with a teacher that actually cares about the context of our writing assignments. Now if you know me then I know what you're thinking, "Jennies so full of it she dreads going to school everyday" and you'd be half right. I only don’t like going to school because of the tool bag-wannabe-cool kids that go here but I like most off the school work I get and I absolutely LOVE getting to see Bunje everyday. As for right now I'm pretty much where I want to be academically, I'm challenging myself and that’s great. Am I where I want to be socially? I really know and I really don’t care about my social status currently. I could have no friends or a million friends and it'd make no difference to me.
I thought to end this that id let you all know that since colder weather is approaching that my immune system is non existent and I WILL be sick every other week and I WILL complain about it on all social media platforms. Also swim and drama are life for me so catch me in the pool or on the stage soon doing big things.
I really like how you put this, Jennie. I don't mind writing and I actually really like it, but I dread coming to school because of all the people around me that will make rude comments on every little thing they see. I think enjoying the work you're given is an important part of learning. A lot of AP students are only worried about that A+ on their paper and will do anything to get it, including cheating, which is sad. We've known each other for a long time and I'm glad we're both on the same page when it comes to that. I'll catch you at the pool while I'm writing down your time!
Deletehey jennie lynn. You're right with how need to manage our time. Unlike last year where we couldn't because dunn's work took up from the time we got home to 10 at night. But I honestly think that you're going to do great this year and I'm not saying that because you're my best friend, I mean it. You just have to keep up on your work. And getting no sleep this year is what I'm planning on doing. So we can text together on our restless nights. But anyway I'll see you in school tomorrow and the next day and the next day. Oh and I'll also be peeping you in the lane during winter.
DeleteI'm SO with you about the stress.. although this year I'm trying my best to be stress free it's challenging because of the expectations this year brings with it. And I agree with you about the grades and being worth more than the letter. I've been like that my whole life and as soon as I came to that realization.. that I'm NOT what my grade says I am, I've become a better student in my opinion. Oh and for when it gets colder, good luck!!
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ReplyDeleteJennie I really agree with this. There's so many students in our school that put work before themselves and I don't get it. I really admire them but you also have to admire others too. Also I want to work so much harder than last year. I thought Mr. Dunn's class was hard but nope...nothing compares to AP classes. Overall, we're on the same mind set and these tool bag-wannabe-cool kids are just there so don't worry
DeleteJunior year is the one year I looked forward to but also greatly feared, excited to look at colleges and get everything situated, but nervous for buckling down to get the best grades I could get. This summer wasn’t the easiest for a lot of us from heartbreaks to losing a friend, teammate, sister, and anything else thinkable. Getting back into the swing of things will make junior year just that much harder, but it is doable.
ReplyDeleteIt is not that I have expectations for this year, I have expectations for myself and my ability to set goals higher than usual. I never exactly pushed myself to do the best I could do with anything from grades to sports but this year that is the one thing I would like to change. In general, I am hoping to get much more knowledge out of my AP classes and junior year unlike the little to none I got out of sophomore year. Coming out of sophomore year with nothing is partially my fault because I didn’t exactly pay attention but that will not be the same this year.
I am nervous and excited to see what this class and 11th grade brings. I am nervous due to the fact I took 2 AP classes and can feel myself stressing out already considering I had a mental break down on the second night of school. Academically, socially, and physically I am not exactly where I wish to be but I know I can get myself there with hard work and dedication. When I think of where I want to be physically I cringe a little bit but I will start exercising again for sure. As of right now I feel like a beach whale and that needs to change. Anyway, all I have to do is put my mind to all this, like happiness and working to the best of my ability, which I know I can do.
Heather , it really has been such a hard summer and it was so hard to come back this year with the same enthusiasm. But we are all here for each other it hurt me so bad to see one of my friends leave but that just pushes me so much farther to do better and push myself to the furthest limit because w all deserve that much .Kids are age should not have to go through a lot of things that we do and it is hard but I promise you we will get through this year as happy as can be . P.S I love you nd you deserve more that what you got so find someone or something that makes you happier.
DeleteHey Heather, I can definitely see where you're coming from on all of this. Coming back to school after this tough summer was a hard transition. This year is going to be a challenge in a lot of aspects but, we're going to get through this together. These AP classes are a little crazy but, it will all be worth it in the end. I'm really glad I'm not the only one who was having a mental breakdown on the second day of school though. It feels good to know that there are people going through the same thing. I know you've been through a lot in this short amount of time and for that, I am going to flip off and moon your ex mans tomorrow when he drives past my bus stop. love yaaa
DeleteThat beach whale comment is so meeeee!!!! Anyway, there's so many challenges going on this year and it feels so weird. We're juniors. I don't believe we're grown up so much. But Im excited to see what happens. If your ex wants to get these hands? btw you'll make it through we're all here for you.
DeleteHeather!!!!! How can you say you look like a beach whale you're literally stunning and such a beautiful person inside and out. I understand exactly what you mean about getting into the swing of things again after having such a rough summer but once you get passed all of the things that have happened over the last few months things will be so much easier, trust me. Yes, school is going to be really hard for the few of us that have never taken an AP class before but we're all smart enough to get through it and you know Bunje is going to help us out every step of the way. No worries love.
DeleteIt is already two weeks into school and I already feel so overwhelmed. This is definitely going to my hardest year because I have terrible stress management skills and procrastinate too much. I don’t know why I took so many AP Classes, but I wish I didn’t. I’m really slow in general, imagine a sloth, so sometimes it takes me the entire night just to do a simple assignment. This blog post itself is already taking me an hour to write, just imagine how long it takes me to write an essay. Also stress makes me break out, and I just managed to clear my face up so I’m not looking forward to that.
ReplyDeleteThis year I’m expecting lots of crying and frustration, but also some self-improvement. I know AP Lang has a lot of personal stuff in it, and I’m hoping that this class will help me break out of my comfort zone. I don’t like talking about myself, so it’s especially hard writing about myself. It’s also hard to communicate my feelings because I think something in my head, and I feel like I expressed my thoughts, when I really didn’t. I had to delete my first response because of that exact reason, so now I’m going through each paragraph and filling in the gaps. Also, with all the blog post and OPs, I might even learn more about myself and who I am as a person. I don’t really know who I am right now, and I don’t want my grades to be my defining point, which I feel like it is. I hope to become something more than a “top student” because that title will go away soon and I don’t want to be lost. There’s a great graduation speech by Erica Goldson that explains my exact feelings, so if anyone has the time, go google it (its pretty short)!
I’m scared that one day I’m going to break down because I don’t know how to handle and balance school. I’m also scared that I’m not going to accomplish my goals, because right now I feel so far away from where I want to be. Socially, I’m not where I want to be because I’m really shy and get intimidated when talking to new people. But maybe that’ll change for the better. Also physically, I really want to be able to do a pull-up. I’ll work on it, but maybe in a couple years I will finally get it.
I completely understand what you're saying about procrastination and stress management because I struggle with those things as well. I was finally able to get my procrastination under control last year, but I'm scared that I'll return to my old habits again this year (I sound like an alcoholic). I also feel you on a spiritual level about how stress causes you to break out because same. Good luck this year and I hope you achieve your pull-up goal!
DeleteHey Janet, I see where you’re coming from about procrastinating. I’m in the same boat. But I feel that habit will be broken this year. As for the pull ups… If you were as good at pull ups as you are at planking! You would be outstanding. You’ll be able to do a pull up at the end of winter crew. If you’re not stuck coxswaining the entire winter, hop on the erg. You’ll be able to do a pull up in no time.
DeleteI completely understand about the stress and acne. Whenever I stress out I start to break out a little. I feel the same about this school year. I just know that I'm going to have a breakdown from all the work and stress. I hope you accomplish your goal and do a pull-up. It'll take some time but start little. I can only do one pull-up but the feeling is great once you finally pull yourself up.
DeleteI agree with you so much about being overwhelmed already. I also hope that my classes this year will help me open up out of my comfort zone. The stress will be real this year and I'm not the most peasant person to be around when I'm stressed
DeleteJanet Lam!!! I can hear your stress in this blogpost and I can picture it on your face too! So stop! Seriously, stop. However many freaking kids are in this class will be there with you, and we will all be okay. Wherever and whatever okay is, we will be that. Trust me Janet, we can stress together and break out together and learn together. Knowing you for how long I have now, I always forget how shy you are because you have no problem yelling at me at any time of the day.
DeleteAww Janet, I know exactly how you feel. I'm not much of a procrastinator, but I do know how it feels to be overwhelmed and stressed out all the time. I took 4 Ap classes this year, and I basically just set myself up for crying every night. I don't think I had the choice to not take Ap, because if I didn't I wouldn't be challenged enough and it would be like going backwards. I know it can be hard to overcome shyness, but just know I am always here for you girly and I'm sure many people would say the same. So don't ever feel uncomfortable or shy around us because it is literally just us!
DeleteAlthough I have only been an 11th grader for about 2 weeks, I wholeheartedly agree that it is the most challenging and important year of high school. I feel it is the year where we are stabilized in our social positions and are more focused on academics. I've been told numerous times by teachers and guidance counselors that this year is the biggest step into transitioning the high school to a college student. So I go into each of my classes knowing I'll have to push myself in order to get out alive. This year, being my first year taking AP courses, it is the ultimate challenge that i have willingly accepted. I hope to learn how to write a perfect essay without struggling and just generally become a better writer. This school year I want to get all the mandatory classes out of the way so come my senior year I won't be as stressed and can focus more on college. My greatest fear is that I will succumb to the stress of working too hard and eventually give up.
ReplyDeleteMy name is Kayla Harris it isn't a common known name in the hallways of Oakcrest, but it is known. I've never been the one to Care about social status or popularity, but I am ok with my social status. Now that I am taking AP courses I feel that I am more challenged academically. Physically I am tall, and fit , but I wish to be more athletic so I try to work out each day.
This is also my first year taking AP classes and Im so terrified which we all should be. You don't have to be popular or well known to have a great high school experience. Im also hella jealous of how fit you are!! But I hope you find your success.
DeleteWhenever someone reminds me that junior year is the toughest year of my high school career, I often get really anxious. My anxiety is due to the fact that these preconceived notions do have some truth to them, since most students this year, including myself, take the SAT’s, ACT’s, and multiple AP courses. I wish I could get all of the testing over with because waiting to be tested is more stressful than taking the actual test, I think. The fact that colleges will mostly be looking at our grades from this year really freaks me out. I’m scared that for some reason I’ll start doing badly in school so that no colleges accept me and I’ll become homeless or something because I’ll never be able to get a good job. I know that’s a tad overdramatic, but still. I find it so weird when family members ask me about college and where I want to go and what I want to major in. Like I was just in 7th grade, how can I already be thinking about college?
ReplyDeleteWhen I found out that I’d be in AP Lang this year, I was actually excited because I knew that I was going to learn useful information that I can actually use in real life, unlike math (I hate math). I’m kind of scared that I won’t be able to receive that good of a grade, though, because of how challenging this course is.
Right now, I’m pretty happy with where I am academically because I was able to get straight A’s all last year. However, that adds some stress because now my parents hold me to a higher standard than they did before, so they expect me to do the same thing this year. Since I just moved here, I don’t know that many people, but everyone seems nice. Physically I could improve, since I get tired going from my couch to the fridge.
Rachel, I would not know what to do with myself if I had to transfer to a whole new school my junior year. Kudos to you for handling it so well. And I 100% feel you when you say that waiting to take the test is almost more nerve-racking than actually taking the test. It's that weird in-between anxiety of "Did I study enough???" that kills me every time. The last sentence of your post made me laugh. Ponz will whip you up into shape in no time, and then you'll be able to make more trips from the couch to the fridge without getting tired!
DeleteHey, Rachel! I knew about you coming to this school before I met you because my friend's coworker told me you would be in my classes and I was excited to meet someone new in this school for once. Oakcrest isn't all that bad, right? I don't know you very well yet, but I'm sure you're super smart and will be able to get all A's. I hope we can become closer throughout the year and if you ever have any questions about the school and don't know who to ask, I'm here!
Deletehey Rachael! I remember you because we have the same color hair and you're super nice. Being your first year in oakcrest you are really really fitting in. I give you props for handling all the ghetto kids and the too cool for school kids well. But you got straight A's all last year?!?!! that's amazing. I know you can do it this year. You seem so smart. I really want to get closer this year(not because we have the same hair color) but I feel like maybe we can work on our anxiety together!
DeleteTo start it off I'm not really sure if I looked forward to Junior year or if I feared to come into it. A lot of people say that my junior year was gonna be my hardest year of high school. Honestly, I would agree because at this time in high school all the baby games are over. Every class I walked into basically all were the same, the structures were exactly the same.Each teacher in their own way explained that all the bull crap and games have come to a complete stop. I feel embarrassed to say I don't know if I can get through this year but i have to .Wanting to be an over achiever to feel better about yourself to make yourself proud sometimes takes a lot of work. With all the rumors and assumptions, I highly think that my Junior year will be my hardest year. Ms.Bunj is my first AP teacher I've ever had and honestly I'm happy she's such a great person that I can reach out to. The fact that colleges look at this upcoming year terrifies me that my hardest year determines my future and which college will even accept what I dish out.Some days I wake up and I don't even want to go to school, so many things bother me about this place we call our school. Getting older and realizing all of these things I never had before makes me upset in a way but alright in another. The fact we come here to learn is absolutely incredible but the fact our shoulders remind some guys of porn and distracts them make me wonder. Walking through hallways at Oakcrest I sometimes forget what planet I'm on because some people were just not brought up in the same environment as me and I can really tell.Being upper classmen gives all of us the advantage to give good advice out to younger kids who really need it. Last year, I got inducted to student council and I love the people i really enjoy the company and the environment. Now because of that i decided this year to run for class president to change what I could and state our ideas that we all have because no one else cares about it and if they do they don't seem like it. I don't want people to ever think that its a 'Popularity' contest I just want better for the rest of our junior and senior year that's honestly all and I hate the fact that people think that ill do it for any other reason,I just want to live it up while we can, Honestly .I just want to forget that this may or may not be our hardest year of high school. I'm not asking for all A's I'm striving for good grades striving to do my best this year because i want something for myself just like we all do.
ReplyDeleteTeea girl I really hope you win class president, we need you. But to be honest you got this so don't stress too much over it. #TeamTeea. As for the people that just hang around in our hallways I'm not even sure if half of them go here but I've learned to ignore them, its better that way. Try not to get too caught up in guys and what people think of you because we all know that you're amazing and anyone that says over wise is just wrong.
DeleteThe way you wrote this really got to me because it's exactly how you should be said. I really want everyone to be cool with each and have a great junior and senior year. Maybe as you president, that can happen ;) but I realize what you said about morals and I 100% agree. I love you
DeleteAlthough I have only been an 11th grader for about 2 weeks, I wholeheartedly agree that it is the most challenging and important year of high school. I feel it is the year where we are stabilized in our social positions and are more focused on academics. I've been told numerous times by teachers and guidance counselors that this year is the biggest step into transitioning the high school to a college student. So I go into each of my classes knowing I'll have to push myself in order to get out alive. This year, being my first year taking AP courses, it is the ultimate challenge that i have willingly accepted. I hope to learn how to write a perfect essay without struggling and just generally become a better writer. This school year I want to get all the mandatory classes out of the way so come my senior year I won't be as stressed and can focus more on college. My greatest fear is that I will succumb to the stress of working too hard and eventually give up.
ReplyDeleteMy name is Kayla Harris it isn't a common known name in the hallways of Oakcrest, but it is known. I've never been the one to Care about social status or popularity, but I am ok with my social status. Now that I am taking AP courses I feel that I am more challenged academically. Physically I am tall, and fit , but I wish to be more athletic so I try to work out each day.
I do agree with many students that say junior year is the toughest year of high school. Motivated students take about four AP classes their junior year. If all of these students aren’t crazy enough for taking so many work demanding classes, doing a sport as well is challenging. This is where I fall in the student spectrum. Junior year is when colleges look at athletes to recruit. This adds a lot of stress to juniors because they need to be on their A game every game. This year I expect to get at least five goals and four assists on the soccer field. School wise, I aim for a three or better on the AP exams. In Lang I am hoping to become a better writer and learn how to use other lit terms besides onomatopoeia and simile. Throughout junior year I am just hoping to become a well rounded student and athlete.
ReplyDeleteMy biggest fear this year is staying up until one AM studying for a major test or doing homework. During the school year I go to bed around ten every night so I’m nervous about the late nights studying. I am where I want to be socially and physically. Academically I get B’s on many of my report cards so I definitely want to change them to A’s. I like my friend group so I’m where I want to be socially; and physically I’m in good shape (thank you crew).
As an athlete and a student it must be really hard maintaining good grades and doing your best in the sport you play in. It must even harder when you hope to be recruited by a college. For me I don't intend to continue playing in college but I know they're is a lot of stress when it comes to to it. It's great that you set a goal for yourself. It's a great way to motivate yourself when it get hards. I can't believe you go to bed at ten, I honestly stay up until 11 to do work so I won't have to worry about it later. I wish I could do that.
DeleteI agree with you that being an athlete and a student that tries to maintain good grades is very hard and challenging. I like the goals you set for yourself and how you explained how difficult it is to be a student-athlete. I am on the same page as you with everything and couldn't agree more.
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DeleteHey Tim! You are doing great when it comes to crew and soccer. Congratulations for your winning goal against Cedar Creek! Even though I am not doing a sport, I understand how stressful and hard it is to do sports and challenging classes at the same time. When you get introduced to a lit term, the brain stores the memory and the information about that particular thing. You would probably use lot of lit terms in writing and not realize it. I am positive that you will do better on the AP tests. Don’t stress too much over late night studying because everyone would be doing that. You are not alone. You can ask for help anytime you want.
Why do you go to sleep at ten when you could be partying all night long? I know I do. Get your homework done as soon as you get home and party hard throughout the night and you will be very satisfied with life, man, as satisfied as a cockroach in a nice cozy cabinet full of pop tarts and Fruit Loops. I do agree with you on the use of similes, though. I try not to use similes when I could use metaphors and procatalepsis—I do not know what that means but it sounds cool.
DeleteJuggling school and sports this year really will be hard, but I'm not with you on the whole bring your A game to every game, maybe every MEET I suppose. I think that a study group will help lessen those late nights.
DeleteThe mix of school and sports will be challenging this year. I think you can compete at your best every game. I do agree with joe though I think a study group would help. By the way, i think I finally found my calves.
DeleteComing into my junior year is somewhat terrifying. I’ve never been one to do exceptionally well under pressure and knowing this year is one of the most important years in high school and kind of determines my future scares me, just a little bit.
ReplyDeleteBesides lack of sleep I expect this year to bring me more maturity and responsibility. Being in college level classes makes me think about how my life will be for the next four years after high school. In a way all the stress, reading, and late nights, which I’m sure the worse has yet to begin, is preparing me for that part of my life. So hopefully I’ll be used to it all and my roommate won’t have to witness too many of my breakdowns in our dorm. Instead I’ll be that chill roommate that thinks about things deeply and continues to grow as a person. Which is something I hope to get from Lang this year. Many kids come out of Lang saying they see things from total different perspectives, I want to be able to say the same thing because being able to see things from a new point of view is something extremely useful.
The only fear I have when it comes to Lang and junior year in general is giving up. I’ll never give up on anyone else but, when it comes to myself I’ll stop things almost immediately if I don’t like it. I know my breaking points but a lot of the time I tend to stop before I get anywhere near them. This year I can’t afford to do that, considering where and what I’m going to be in two years all rides on this year.
As of right now I’m exactly where I want and need to be in every area of my life. It’s pretty hard to be unhappy with my grades at the moment so I’m going to keep it like that. Socially I’m more confident and relaxed and just genuinely happy being around my friends and even strangers. I’m comfortable talking to complete strangers which is something I could never do before. Even physically I’m pleased with myself, I do well in my sport I’ve made massive progress in soccer and from here I can only get better.
I say You and I both be roomies in college, and can cry together? But Kennedy I know you'll do get your junior year! You have the mentality, don't ever lose it. You have to do things even if you don't like it, because well that's just how life is. But Kennedy, you'll do great this year, and believe you can as well, the tired mornings and sleepless nights will pay off!!
DeleteKennedy if this were a tweet, I would hit you with that retweet. I really feel the same way about this year. I'm very excited/nervous for this year too. I'm going to try my best to have less mental breakdowns for the sake of my college roommate also. I'm really glad to hear that you feel good about your life right now though. With all the stress of junior year, you seem to handle it pretty well and you still seem to find the light in situations.
DeleteKen, I'm in a couple of your classes and I will not let you give up this year. We are going to go through this year together both in academics and sports. You've gotten a lot better in soccer and you're making me proud with your captain status. Hopefully, I'll see you at your lax games this year too.
DeleteKhawk, I want to be able to say the same thing after we're done this class. Seeing things in different perspectives is what I want to get out of this year too. But I feel you when you're talking about working under pressure, I can't do it either. And this year, we'll make through Lang together. Good Enough Club is not taking Ls this year
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ReplyDeleteHmm what do I think of when I hear junior year.... I think of stress and tears. Sorry, not sorry. I'm already feeling the stress and tears, and school hasn't fully reached what it's supposed to reach. I just want to do good on my SATS, I need to do good on them. Taking Ap Lang still scares me and sometimes I fear that I'm not going to be able to do it, but I know I can its just going to take effort. Junior year definitely is a smack in the face. With having needing to have good grades, and to pass your SATS, as well as be involved sports and clubs and etc, and to still excel in school. Taking AP Lang was to wake me up and take a class that will actually be like a college class. I want to come out of class with new words, how to write, to actually write, and just to better myself. Academically, I think I can be a little bit better, I just need to stay focused. Socially, I've never been one of the popular kids, or the kid who had this incredible bond with a awesome teacher. I'm just me, I will socialize with anyone. Anyone who is kind and looks like they need someone to talk to, I will be that person. Everyone is the same, and it's a shame people don't think the way I do. I don't strive to be popular, I strive to better myself. Physically, well as everyone knows I've literally been chubby my entire life. But I'm a chubby active girl. I'm not going to brag about if I'm on varsity for field hockey, or how I was placed in my boat for crew last year, because quite frankly it doesn't matter. But physically I do whatever I can, I do not stop running or just anything. Physically I'm happy with what I do, but would love to be one of the skinny pretty girls. Junior year is definitely the red door in a black room, but I'm ready for it.
Ang, I feel you on that. This year makes me think of stress and tears but, this year has a lot of positive sides to it too. This year we can learn more about ourselves and push ourselves to new limits. When you mentioned yourself socially, I can relate to that too. I really am friends with anyone who is a nice person. When it comes to physical activity, I know that you are good at pushing yourself. In field hockey, I never see you give up on the ball and I know you always have my back. I can tell that in whatever you do, you always give it your all and that will definitely get you through junior year. ily ang
DeleteAngie, I honestly understand you completely. I am the same exact way. If anyone is sad I will ask if you need someone to talk to because that's the type of person I am. I would love to be one of the skinny girls too but we do more than what some of them do. We actually work out do sports and activities to keep our bodies from getting any bigger. That's how god made us and wanted us to be but your beautiful the way you are! I am with you with the stress too because we have so many things going on its going to get hard sometimes you have to push through and fight it to succeed. Hard work pays off! love you angie
DeleteSince the moment I stepped into this school, all I’ve been hearing, especially from our lovely guidance counselors, is that, “Oh junior year is the hardest year!” or “Do well junior year!” or “Colleges look at your junior year, so take hard classes!” And as a freshmen at the time, I would just simply reply back: “Oh, I’ve got PLENTY of time!” But lo and behold, i’m a junior now! The seniors weren’t kidding when they said that high school goes by quick. Even though it’s still early into the school year, all I have to say is that I agree: Junior year is by far my toughest year. It’s only been two weeks and already we have tons of work to complete. Though they aren’t hard to do; They’re manageable. The only thing is that they’re time consuming, which can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on how you look at it. Despite the piles of homework i receive each day, i’m loving my junior year. Although I did say this was my toughest year, that doesn’t mean I’m stressing over it. I’m simply enjoying it.
ReplyDeleteNow onto this class: Everyone is going crazy over lang, “Omg this is due!” or “We have a quiz today!” But to be completely honest, that is my favorite part of the day: AP Lang with Bunje. This class is very structured, but yet, involves so much creativity at the same time. The only thing I hope to get out of this class is the proper way to write. Clark tried his best to help me, but it was no use. I suck at writing. I’m not even sure if I used my colons the right way. The only thing I fear the most is letting people down, and I do not want to do that with this class. Bunje doesn’t seem like the person to let us down, and if she doesn’t let us down, then I shouldn’t let her down. It’s a win-win situation.
I’m pretty content with where I’m at academically, socially, physically--pretty much life in general. There’s not much to complain about. Everything is going pretty good for me at the moment. As cliche as this sounds, I just hope to grow as a person. That’s the only thing I hope to get out of this year. Hopefully, I can keep this positive attitude all the way up till the end of the school year. If I can, then all will be swell!
Jasmine your post must have spoken out of the mouth of Jesus because it is the TRUTH. I feel like that's all the guidance counselors have been saying these past three years! And O M G Clark is a good guy, but in the writing department... Let's just say it's pretty empty...
DeleteI wish you the best of luck, and it seems like you've got your year all under control. :)
You do not suck at writing. You suck at evaluating yourself. You're one of the most humble, positive and kind people I know. We've known each other for 13 years, and no one has come along yet that is more humble, positive, or kind. I have a feeling you're going to be holding on to that title for a very long time. I know you're going to kill it this year, just like you do every other year, and you're going to do so with the most grace and poise that the world has ever seen. You won't be letting anybody down.
DeleteYou're the last person that would be letting anyone down! These past couple years of having class with you, you've always been the one to help other students that are struggling with their work. I also want to improve my writing because I'm not good at noticing the right and wrong ways to use punctuation. I'm sure you'll grow in everything you put your mind to this year!
DeleteI feel you there when you were talking about how even guidance is telling us how difficult Jr. year is! It's crazy the amount of pressure that surrounds us all. Also I agree with Lindsey up there! You most definitely will not disappoint anyone, you've even helped me out when I was in a bind! You'll do fine this year.
DeleteHi Jas! I just loved your post so much because it sounds just like you, that is why I had to respond to yours. I agree about your point when you say we shouldn't stress about every little assignment we are given, because it won't help us at all. I also loved your point about Bunje, if we work as hard as we possibly can, there is no doubt that she won't help us back, so why stress? Plus, she made a great point the first week of school: "We're all in this together, so why not help each other out?"
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ReplyDeleteTaking AP Lang as a senior is probably one of the best decisions I could have made these past 4 years. I cannot begin to tell you how stressful my junior year was. Not to scare most of you because there is not reason to be scared about junior year, but it got to be really stressful sometimes. Entering junior year I had no expectations at all not because I don’t like to have expectations but because I just don’t work that way. I never sit and think to long about a situation because I don’t really see the need too, I like to go with the flow on most occasions, although some situations don’t let me and when that happens I become a full wreck. Entering senior year didn’t come with a lot of expectations either except that I hope to get into college.
I want This AP Lang class more than anything to teach me how to think and be able to write clearly also I hope It makes me realize why I make the decisions I make in life.
Socially, physically I have no idea where I am. I am on the verge of graduating high school and hope that this year those two things don’t matter me at all. Academically on the other hand I am in the middle of where I want to be. I know I could work harder but I never really do or try. I hope this year I change that.
I can tell you a lot of things that I got out of my junior year and one of them is not chemistry. Junior year taught me many things that had to do with school and many of them didn’t. Junior year I can guarantee you is going to be a big slap in the face. Not because of all the AP classes you are taking or all the workload you are about to get but this year you will realize many things you hadn’t before, some you wish you never had and some you are very thankful for.
AP Lang overall doesn’t exactly scare me I don’t know how I am going to deal with all of the work but I know it will all be worth it in the end. Senior year scares me only because I know eventually I will have to leave everything behind. The place where I basically grew up, where I realized what was bad and good for me, where I cried my heart out, where I laughed and smiled. High school became my second home somewhere along the way, let me rephrase that 204 basically became my second home, and I honestly hope it does too for you.
Ah yes, the infamous Junior year. A lot of people (including my parents) have been telling me "oh you need to do good this year", "you need to be more talkative", "you need to get into after school activites." It's never ending with what I need to do Junior year. I understand that colleges will be looking at me and expect top-notch grades, but sometimes I just want everyone to shut up and leave me be so I can study and look at colleges without them up my ass. But, I want a lot of things to go right this year. All the stressing I do and the never ending anxiety attacks I get, I should be rewarded. Getting good grades this year is my goal. I know that's everyone's goal, but I actually want to keep reminding myself and pushing myself to keep studying and to keep on my homework. I want to strive for straight A's, and I don't care if it's only for one marking period, at least I can say "yeah, I got straight A's during Junior year. That would be amazing to see the reactions on everyone's face, knowing that they know that Junior year is a very very tough year. Now, I've heard stories about how AP Lang is a pain in the ass and everyone is stressing everynight to make sure they do great on their homework, but I'm really looking foward to learning new things. I love how we can write our OP on anything we want (of course relating to us), I love the blogs, and I love the precis we do. Yes, there are things I'm nervous about, mostly presenting, but I know I have to keep reminding myself that this will only make me better. I think the toughest time I will have this year is in the winter. Swim season. I dread the thought of it. Though, I love winter, I love/hate swim. Especially now that I'm a Junior and colleges will be looking at me. wow. I'm a Junior. It's so crazy to think about. It felt like yesterday I came into kindergarten with my spider-man custome on and the spider-man truck I brought along with me. Being in 11th grade doesn't sound as scary as saying I'm a Junior. I feel like Junior is a curse word and when you say it people say "yup she's going to straight down." Am I the only one who thinks that she isn't smart enough to take the AP tests? Whenever teachers talk about it I sit there and say to myself "I'm going to fail", but while I'm saying that I keep saying "no you aren't." I have this on going fight in my mind about it. But on a scale from one to ten, ten being the most, I'm getting about a billion anxiety attacks in AP Lang, alone, this year.
ReplyDeleteOh Lexi, Lexi, Lexi you are so hard on yourself for no reason. You've been like that since third grade my friend. Yes, grades are important but they are not the most important thing, neither is swimming you obviously still need to do you're best but you shouldn't worry on trying to be the best at it. A lot of colleges like to see effort and its clear that you're putting in a lot of effort into everything that you do. I know I tell you all the time and its annoying but GET INVOLVED LEXI, JUST DO IT. I promise you its not that bad at all, I truly believe that you're missing out on a lot of the things Oakcrest has to offer.
DeleteI get where you're coming from about how people are telling you what you need to accomplish this year because I hear the same things from my parents about grades and getting involved in activities. I think you're a little too hard on yourself when it comes to academics because you're more than capable of getting good grades on AP tests, so try not to stress yourself out so much. You'll be fine!! I doubt myself a lot though, too, and I get really anxious, so that's something I have to work on as well. Good luck this year!
DeleteLexi, you need to stop doubting yourself! Like Jennie said, you're way too hard on yourself. Being strict with your grades and swimming is a good thing but if it starts to stress you out, that's when you know that you're pushing yourself too hard. Getting straight A's would be awesome and you could definitely do it. If what everyone else is saying is making you nervous, don't listen to them. You've always been the person to keep up with your work and do what you're supposed to do. Set your own boundaries and keep up with your work and you'll make it out of junior year alive!
DeleteHonestly, I’ve been looking forward to junior year, not because it is easy but because it’s going to be hard. I’ve come to the realization that life isn’t easy and I feel that this year will prepare me for the real world. I expect this year to be challenging, with trying to keep my grades up and get a scholarship in track. I hope that AP Lang will make me a better writer and speaker. I hope to just enjoy my junior year because soon I will be in college and all of high school will become memories. My biggest fear about this year is a mix of grades, sports, and having fun, there’s not much time left to be a kid. I am where I want to be academically. Socially I’m happy where I’m at I enjoy being with my friends and believe that I get along with most people. Physically I’m not where I want to be I need to get stronger and faster if I hope to get a scholarship in track, I’ve looked at the times I need to run to get into division 1 and I’m nowhere near those times.
ReplyDeleteOh wow I applaud you for looking at this year so optimistically. You're right that life isn't easy and definitely this year is going to be hard. It's sad to think that next year is our last your but I agree with you I think everyone should just enjoy their high school years because they will all become memories. I hope you earn the scholarship and improve your times. It's gonna be hard but track is life.
DeleteHi Christian, you seem to push yourself really hard in Academic and track and that maybe the reason you've achieved such impressive outcomes in both. I know running and shaving of time can be hard but with the motivation and determination that I see in you I am sure you'll be able to accomplish everything you have worked for. :)
DeleteI think you're right that life isn't easy and that this year will prepare us for the real world. I know how hard track can be and how hard it is to get a scholarship for it. But, I hope that you get one and go to wherever you want to go to.
DeleteI agree with you so much, especially about how life isn't easy. Everything that you get in life will be from working at it. I will also be looking into getting a scholarship for running, but I'm not sure about D 1. And only because you said something, physically your almost there, but it would be great to be able to see some of your caffs, hahaha.
DeleteI know what junior year awaits for me. Between SATs, 3 AP classes, sports, piano, friendships, and finding time for it all, this year is going to be hard. Junior year is the year to get your life together. I know it is going to be a lot of hard work and I’m going to need to work on my time management. Although there’s a lot to stress about, this year I’m excited to be the role model for underclassmen and have some new experiences.
ReplyDeleteThis year my expectations are pretty high. I really want to focus on my school work because I know how important this year is. I can already tell what kind of year this is going to be because I've already cried twice. This year is going to be full of self-discovery and plans for the future. I am nervous but, also, excited for what this year has to bring.
I have other expectations about this year though that are not as school work based. I know that AP Lang is a class that makes you open up to classmates and it requires a lot of self-reflection. I am ready to learn more about my classmates and myself as well. I hope to get a lot out of this year mentally and emotionally. Junior year seems like the perfect time to take AP Lang because it not only readies you for the SAT but, it is a time when you need to discover yourself the most. It is the year you need to figure out your future and new things about yourself along the way. I think this class is going to offer a lot of moral support and I know I'm going to need it.
Along with all of my excitement for junior year, I am also very fearful. I don't know where this year is going to take me and I am very undecided about college. I am nervous to open up to a whole class of students but, I know it is only going to bring us closer and stronger.
Currently, I feel okay on where I stand academically, socially and physically but, I know there is room for improvement. I hope this year can make me a more confident person. I know that there is still a lot for me to learn academically. When it comes to myself socially, I would like to expand my friend group and be a friend to everyone. Physically, sports keep me in shape but, I would like to get more sleep and eat healthier. Overall, I have a good idea of what junior year is going to entail and I'm just hoping I can make it through another school year of stress, lack of sleep, studying and crying :-) I honestly strongly dislike school and the only reason I try is because I hope it will benefit my future.
Hey Jess! You are definitely a great model for people because you are so well-rounded. Opening up to people is one of my fears for this year as well because I'm not used to expressing my feelings and opinions to everyone. There's no need to cry because you always find a way to make things work and I hope you can continue to help others be that way as well. All of your hard work will pay off in the end!
DeleteI do not feel like Junior. Coming back to school was so surreal to me. My summer went by so fast and it felt like it was just a short break. I knew coming coming into Junior year, it would be my hardest year in high school. Not only did I for some reason take 4 AP classes, I have no idea what I was thinking when I signed up for them, I have volleyball, track, after school clubs, and especially this year I have to start worrying about college. Junior year is the hardest because things become more serious now. Freshman and sophomore year was a breeze when I think back to it. When I think I about this year I worry about all the tests and all the things I have to worry about for college. I don’t know what to expect this year but by managing my time and staying focus I hope I survive my junior year.
ReplyDeleteEveryone I have talked to says that Junior year is the hardest and I understand why. Junior year is when you have to worry about SATs, ACTs, and you have to start looking at colleges. It’s overwhelming and I can already feel the stress building from all of it. I try not to worry too much about the future because I stress out too much about it but for now I’m going to just worry about the classes I have. This year I took 4 AP classes. It’s not like I hate them but I know the work load will be huge and with my after school activities I don’t know how I’ll be able to do all my work. Most of my classes are okay I don’t have a real opinion yet since it's only been about three weeks but they’re okay. English was never my thing and has always been my weakest subject. So going into AP Lang is a bit intimidating. I hope through this class I can become a better writer because as I said before English is my weakest subject so my writing isn’t the best. I would say my writing is decent but I want it to be better. Junior year is going to be rough and I expect a lot of late night studying and working but it's nothing I can’t handle.
Probably one of my best decisions I’ve made so far is getting involved in school and sports. As weird as it sounds, I actually love practice and I can’t wait to go. Right now I play volleyball and everyday I look forward to it. Volleyball is what helps me get through the day. If I’m upset I let it out during practice. It's the only time where I’m not stressing about school work. Track is a little bit different because I’m so physically exhausted by the end of practice I can barely hold my pencil. But don’t get me wrong I love track too. After school activities and sports keep me busy. I hate staying at home just doing nothing. I try not to do too much though because I know that I still have a pile of work at home waiting for me.
I’m hoping junior year goes by smoothly. I’m trying to learn from my past years and that is to not stress out. Junior year is suppose to be stressful but I’m not letting that happen. I’m managing my time and making sure I do my work so I’m not staying up late to do work I could have done before. I’ve set goals for myself this year and I intend to achieve them.
I think junior year is going to give me countless headaches, lessen my already miniscule amount of sleep, and cause lots and lots of stress acne. Everyone I’ve met has said it’s the “year from hell” and while I will take their word for it, I do hope that my “year from hell” proves to be just a “year that’s slightly hellish.” According to all the past Langers that I’ve spoken to, AP Lang is supposed to be the main cause of sleep deprivation. I’m in no way prepared, but I’ll suck it up when the time comes. After all, I took AP Lang because it was the logical thing to do. I knew I would learn a lot about the English language, and maybe even myself. I’m excited to learn. But as for junior year in general, I just want to make it out alive.
ReplyDeleteContinuing upon that, I do have some fears for my class. I could go on forever about those fears and about my own experience, but I won’t. I will say however, that I’m proud of what I accomplished last year. I sincerely hope that incomers will take advantage of their fresh start. I know I’ll be taking advantage of mine.
I’m in a decent place academically, but my expectations for myself are always getting higher and higher. I have a set goal, and I’m willing to work hard to get there. Physically, I feel stronger. I’ve always been the really unathletic and really uncoordinated girl, but I’m now able to keep up with my teammates during our conditioning and practices. This is so exciting for me, you have no idea. Socially, I’m extremely optimistic for where I can go. I’ve never been scared of making new friends, so I’m excited to find a group of people that are going to be good for me.
Hey Lucie! I myself am not looking forward to the lack of sleep this year, along with all the stress acne (yay). I think your positive mentality will really help you through this year because you set goals for yourself and you know classes will be hard, but you plan on pushing through. I'm really happy that you've found a sport that you can enjoy and feel confident in. I'm looking forward to practices with you and Ponz!!
DeleteHow am I even going to manage?
ReplyDeleteI have choir, drama, field hockey, and I want to get involved in the Class of 2017 meetings, but who even has the freaking time to do all of this stuff?! Seriously, I feel buried… Trapped. And 3 AP classes does not make this any better. But I can’t see my life without any of it.
I feel like school is hell. A prison.
If I'm not in AP classes, then who am I? If I’m not this perfect student, then who am I?
I’ve always struggled with every subject, hours of me trying to perfect every assignment. And to no avail, I got a B-. But this junior class is so competitive, it’s stressful. I’m always striving to beat the odds; I’m always striving for perfection. Junior year to me, is seen as the year where everything is supposed to come into place, but all of these worries fill my head:
Why don’t I know my major yet? Can I get into my dream school? What will my future be like? Will my job field make enough money? Am I even good enough? Will I ever be happy?
My answer to all these questions is always, I don’t know. I feel like high school for me is a rough patch, but I’m trying my best because I want the best possible future for myself.
I want to just get through this year. And the next.
Actually, can I just skip to the part in my life where I’m financially stable with a job I love, etc.? I love music and acting, but I’m also at a point where I love field hockey equally as much. I know neither will get me very far, most likely.
My mom says, “Take it one step at a time.”
Okay, I can do that. This year, I want to learn that a number grade isn’t what defines me. I want to learn to not be a pushover and just let life roll by and I want to take life by the neck. I want to be able to say, “C’mon Erynn, you can do anything!” I want to come out of this year as a strong young woman. (There’s some feminism for you.)
I want to learn that not being perfect is okay.
Academically, I feel sub-par. I want a 4.0, I really do, but I need to work more efficiently and stop worrying so much. Socially, I have the field hockey team, drama, and choir that I would call my friends, but I do have three+ close friends (and I love them dearly <3.) Psychologically, sometimes I feel like a mental patient that my mom describes to me when she comes home from work. Sometimes, I feel like the amount of times that I worry or go all “perfectionist-crazy” makes me go insane. I’m scared that one day I won’t be able to handle myself and I’ll have an uncontrollable panic attack. I’m pretty self-conscious too, although I constantly have to convince myself that I shouldn’t be. (But how can you not be in this society?)
This was very ramble-y… But I feel like for the first time I can actually say something instead of being somewhat timid (at least that’s what some people think I am) and get my thoughts out there. I feel like people really need to know me.
Erynn, I don't doubt for a second you'll make this year YOUR year. You're going to shine in everything that you do. Don't worry about being a perfect student. You're already a perfect you. You are loyal and caring and sweet and funny and talented. You are a great person with a heart of gold. We aren't friends because of grades or classes. We're friends because we talk and understand each other and have fun together.
DeleteI am proud of everything you do and the person you are. If you are too, nothing else matters.
<3
Entering junior year I know that this will probably be my toughest year knowing that this is the year colleges mainly look at. I have done well in my first two years but knowing this year is the year colleges will look at gives this year pressure I am not comfortable with. My expectations about what this year should bring are achievements, more knowledge for the future, and experience in AP courses. I despise English and strongly dislike reading and writing but that’s exactly why I took this course, to challenge myself.
ReplyDeleteI’m hoping to get an expansion in vocabulary and writing techniques to apply into my writing. With an expansion in vocabulary I could enhance my daily vocabulary, which would make me sound smarter and in essays I could use this vocabulary to impress. My fears about this class are getting overwhelmed by all the work and wanting to give up and drop the class (but that will not happen). Also my greatest fear about the 11th grade is getting bad grades and knowing colleges will not accept them.
Academically, I am not satisfied at where I am because, even though last year the last marking periods I got straight A’s, I know I can do better and this year I will strive to do my best. Socially, I am okay where I am because of the fact that before high school I was very shy and was not very social. I rarely made new friends, unless they approached me. But now I find myself engaging in conversation with others and not being afraid to speak up. I am still sometimes awkward and quiet but not nearly as much as I use to be. Physically, I would say I’m in shape because I play soccer and that involves A LOT of running. I also eat healthy meals to stay that way.
Enrique I am surprise that you say you were shy because although I don't know you that well I've always seen you walking around with your friends. And I agree with your view of English It isn't my favorite subject either. I also think you set high standards for yourself, you said you had straight A's last year but wanted to better, there is nothing better than an A. :)
DeleteEnrique you know darn well you didn't get no A in Dunns!!! Anywayyyy, you are social and you are a really good person. This year will be hard and you won't drop out because I won't let you. Just try your best and you'll be great.
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DeleteOver the summer I was really excited to enter junior year, but I'm not too sure why. I was just excited to meet my friends and be in new classes and make more friends, or at least try. I came into junior year with optimism. I knew, and have heard, that junior year is the toughest grade in high school and I sure do agree, but I just don't care. I simply don't. To me junior year is like any other and my expectations for this year is the same as it was for the past two: get A's and stay in shape. I sure do know it's going to be tough everyday having all these AP classes and a sport (crew for me), but I don't care. The reason I don't care is because I'm just going to get through it all. Yeah I'll complain and wine sometimes, but I'll get through it. The main thing in life is to be happy and that's what I'm going for. How can I be happy if bunch of classes and a lot of homework brings me down? I won't let that happen. I don't mind staying up late to study and do homework, it's not healthy, but meh...
ReplyDeleteAs for AP Lang, I'm looking forward to learning English better. I chose this class because I still lack some English (I just lived in USA for four years now). I don't know many literally terms, I lack some vocab, and such. I'm hoping to acquire these things throughout the year and more. So far I'm liking Ms. Bunje and I respect her. Even though she maybe be a bit strict she's intelligent. But as for what I want to get out of junior year, well... All I want to get are A's and just be much much stronger for rowing. My last two years I got all A's except last in in US history. I was one point away from an A. I was so sad when I saw that. That kind of killed me.
My biggest fear in Lang is that I will mess up too much and not get the grade that I desire. Same goes for the rest of my classes. That's all I'm worried about for this year and next. Just grades and getting into the college I want, but that too worries me that a good college won't accept me.
And I am right where I want to be socially, though a few more good friends wouldn't hurt. Academically? Well, it'd be nice to be in AP Chem, but sadly I don't know too much about that class so Honors is okay for now. Other than that I'm good where I am. And physically, well I just want to be stronger than I am, like mentioned above, so I own some of my friends during the winter season of crew :P
Like I said before, I just won't let things bring me down. I suck at time management, I procrastinate, and I'm pretty lazy. All this is so because I just think things are easy. Like all I have to do is study if, IF, I don't understand something. I mean come on, that's boring. Optimism is the key to happiness, at least that's what I think.
I can totally relate with you because I also have been in the US for four years. I also have time management problems like you. Trust me, you will get over it soon. I am 100% sure that AP Lang would help you improve your vocabulary. Also, don’t stress too much about grades. It is just a number that will place you amongst your peers. Focus on the actual information that you learn. You are going to need it when you take the SATs.
DeleteOh definetly. I always treasure learning over grades. Like for example last year, I got an 89 in Honors US History, not what I wanted, but the good thing about that is that I learn so much. I don't really enjoy history, espcially about America, but I got into it and I learned many things, which now I can use in APUSH. The thing is though I still need the grades for colleges. If colleges didn't look at grades too much I probably wouldn't be hung up on it so much. But thank you for your motivation. I'm lazy kid, but I'm trying to find ways about it. And by the way, I also read your post and I was like "HEEEYYY THERE'S SOMEONE LIKE ME AROUND." For some reason it felt good knowing that there's someone similar like me in the same class as me. :)
DeleteTo be completely honest I am stressing out on a whole other level compared to last year. This year scares me from what the teachers say and other students about how this is going to be the toughest year and that I could possibly be pulling all-nighters just to study and finish homework. Hopefully this year I can become a more disciplined me with getting assignments done earlier then their due date so that I’m not so frantic the night before. The two things that I want to get from AP Lang is the confidence to speak in front of the class and the ability to write well. My biggest fear is talking in front of the class even though I’m actually not that scared my voice shakes and when I speak it just sounds like I’m going to cry when I’m really not. Academically I’m almost where I want to be because I am taking challenging classes but I want to also succeed and push myself in those classes. Socially I have the best friends a girl could ask for. Without my friends I would not be who I am or where I am today. They are the best support team and they’re always there for me. Physically I want to push myself more and more to just keep improving.
ReplyDeleteHey Hale! I think you set really good goals for yourself this year and knowing you, you'll achieve all of them! I definitely agree with you on wanting to be able to speak in front of the class because that is my weakness and it always has been. I think it's great that you want to push yourself into being a better person!
DeleteHey Haley, if it makes you feel any better I am also super stressed about junior year, but to be honest I think everyone is. I think it is something that you just have to stress about. But, I know you will do fine and that you do well. Just think of this year as another year of high school because that's all it really is, just another year that we have to wake up come to school sit in the same small desks and learn. Just don't give up after all that stress you will achieve your goals!
DeleteMy biggest fear is public speaking too. It's something that makes me sick to my stomach. The feeling of getting hot, butterflies,shaking and blanking out were the most biggest effects on my public speaking. I have countless embarrassing stories. But as a matter of fact, I have gotten better and I know you can too.
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ReplyDeleteJunior year is undoubtedly the toughest yet the most enjoyable year. I have been hearing from students, parents, teachers, and strangers about how junior year is the most prominent year because colleges base the admission off of 9th, 10th and 11th grades. As I was reading other blog posts, I noticed a common trend or problem: time management between school, sports, and personal life. For that reason, I decided not to do sports. Instead, I applied to AtlantiCare for weekend volunteering so that sort of counts as a sport for me. I expect this school year to bring a lot of sleepless nights and wonderful memories. As if 5 APs weren’t enough, I have to study for Consumer Bowl (an interscholastic contest about consumer affairs) and Academic Team (trivia based interscholastic contest). That is my way of enjoying and learning at the same time. Not to mention the fact that this is the year most of us will be taking the SATs and the ACTs.
ReplyDeleteThat brings me to why I took AP Lang. English has always been my weak point, and every year, I try to fill my English patio holes one at a time. I took AP Lang so I can hone my reading and writing skills which would help me do better in the SATs. I am hoping to get a good score on SAT this year by using skills and techniques provided by Mrs. Bunje.
I have multiple fears because AP Lang being one of the most challenging classes. I fear that if I don’t catch up with the rest of the class, I would fall off the turn-up truck. Another fear I have is that I won’t be able to live up to Bunje’s expectations. No matter what, I will try my best to overcome these fears and hopefully ace AP Lang.
I am doing pretty well when it comes to academics. How do I know? Because Billy Bob and Suzie Q said so. I am a bit shy when it comes to social interactions. I am usually not a conversation starter unless if it is someone I am used to talking to. I care way too much about how people are going to judge me based on my speech so I tend to stay quiet. Due to being in the US for only four years, I have a slight disadvantage. I actually have to think about the sentence structure before I say it which is not the case for most people. I know what I want to say, but a lot of times, something else comes out which makes it worse. This year, I am going to try to open up more and not be an introvert. Physically, I am doing ok. I feel like I could have done better if I was in a place surrounded by friends, which is not the case right now. Having no friends nearby serves as a huge disadvantage. The closest friend I can find is 20 minutes of walking distance away. In India, I used to have at least 10 friends, if not more, within 2 minutes of walking distance. I feel like I had more friends nearby, I would have been able to do outdoor activities like tennis. I basically had no one, besides my cousins, to play tennis with over the summer.
Dan, I'm loving these Matlack references! Also, hospital volunteering is TONS of fun. I know you're going to like it. As for your speech, no one is judging you...at least not anyone that's worth a second thought. For someone who's only been in the U.S. for four years, I think you're killing it academically. I still think you should join Boys' Tennis in the spring, but I understand why you would decide not to. At least you get to play with Bryan and I during gym class!!!
DeleteYo Dan!! Bro I envy your brain man your are one of the smartest and brightest dudes I know. Yes you should stress just a little over the fact you have 5 AP classes but the Dan I know is a hard worker you will do great this year I promise. You've helped me so much through the past years and taught me much when I didn't get it in class, thank you and if you need a friend Dan I'm here I know it can be hard when you really don't have a friend group that supports your academics but you have me and if you need me to push you I will.
DeleteEvery time someone talks about junior year, they always use words like, difficult, stressful, and tiring to explain it. I would say that whatever you put into something, is the same that you’re going to get out of it. If you take junior year seriously than it will most definitely pay off. The people who talk about it being difficult are the ones who challenged themselves in the classes they took. For me, challenges are good, but not always the best move because I don’t like to put too much on my plate that I know I won’t be able to handle. Along with the negatives, there are also positives to this year. Prom is definitely something I look forward to because it’s a night where everyone should feel beautiful. For me, I am hoping that this year brings great memories and positivity. It’s always best to have a positive attitude and to also have hope. Your biggest supporter is yourself and you shouldn’t allow your mistakes to define who you are or how you learn. Before taking AP Lang, I thought about the kind of person I wanted to be. I wanted to be the kind of person who can be able to understand something even if it’s not established to its fullest potential, which means I want to be able to look deeper than the surface in a situation to find my answer. Earlier I talked about people challenging themselves and how sometimes it might be too much to handle. Well this class is definitely going to make me challenge myself but not in the way that it gets too stressful. It will be a challenge because most of the time I’m afraid to give my opinions in front of people in fear that it may sound dumb or not be correct. I’m also hoping that this year will strengthen me academically because I’m typically an average student. The one thing that will get me through my junior year is positivity. This will always be able to help anyone socially, academically, and physically because without positivity you’re your own worst enemy who will just bring yourself down. It’s always a good day when you remember the positives in life.
ReplyDeleteI love your last sentence. Staying optimistic can really brighten up a tough day. I'm glad to hear you are putting your best foot forward and looking forward to great things this year. I wish you the best of luck this year Linds, but I don't think you'll need it. Cheers to positivity!
DeleteThank you Melissa! I know you will do great at everything you pursue this year! Positivity will help you through it all!
DeleteAww Linds, your post is so cute! I definitely agree with you when you say it's always best to have a positive attitude. Especially with a tough year like this, it's better to think about the good things instead of stressing over the bad. No doubt you'll do perfectly fine this year!!
DeleteEver since I walked in as a freshman, all I’ve heard about was the infamous “junior year”. Even as a sophomore, there was always someone in my ear telling me “your teacher won’t accept this next year!” They are probably right, too, but all it’s ever done for me is stress me out. Now that I’ve reached my junior year, I’m terrified. What is going to be expected of me? What will my teachers think of me? This all circles in my head over and over again and I just want to know the answers, but there’s no other way to do that than to experience it, myself. I think this year will bring new opportunities and a chance to grow as a person and as a student. Many things can and will happen over the course of a school year and I can’t wait to see who I am at the end of this year, but I have to worry about right now. I took AP Lang in the hopes that I would gain knowledge and grow as a writer. At the end of my junior year, I hope that I can leave knowing more than when I came in. My fears for this class are that I may not be good enough. I would like to think that I am, but I feel like I am surrounded by people who are much smarter and more talented than I am. At the end of my junior year, I would like to be able to look at my classmates and feel as if we are even. I am not anywhere near where I want to be academically or socially. I want to expand my knowledge, especially is psychology, which is what I would like to go to college for and spend the rest of my life studying. It is something I have always been interested in and had trouble with and if I can help young kids and teenagers with the same problems I had as a kid, I would feel complete. Socially, I can say that I have improved so much since freshman year. In 9th grade, we had to do a speech in English and I was unable to do it because I was too afraid and I had to do it alone with my teacher. In 10th grade, we had to do a speech in history and although I was very nervous and afraid, I got through it. This year, I want to be able to get up in front of the class and talk about something that means a lot to me without getting choked up and upset. I just know that junior year is going to be very difficult and hard to get through, but as long as I try, I can make it through this year and come out a stronger, more outgoing person.
ReplyDeleteIt is finally my junior year and I know many are stressing because it is supposedly the hardest most important year of high school, like the others I am stressing as well about this year. Not so much because it’s the main year colleges love to look at but because I don’t think I am fully prepared for what this year has to bring. I am not exactly up to par on the intellectual level with all the other students in my classes that I decided to take, and that brings me great worry. So, this year my main goals are to pass my classes and get something out of them as well because let’s be honest we all know their are those classes that anyone can pass but no one gets anything out of.
ReplyDeleteOddly enough since I am not that good at the vast majority of things we do in english I am really excited for AP Lang. I am not exactly excited for all the quizzes (that I’ll probably end up failing) and homework but more getting to know myself and the others kids I go to school with through these blogs. So, my expectations for this year, well I don’t really have any other than to learn something. I don’t have that many expectations so I don’t end up disappointed because I know whatever bar I set for myself will be too high and I will not end up accomplishing it.
As for where I would like to be right now, I’m not even sure. I know that academically I’m not where I want to be due to the fact school just started and I am already struggling in several classes. And socially well my social life could be better but with all my homework and after school activities I don’t see it getting better anytime soon. Overall, though I am really just hoping this year is not as hard as everyone says so that maybe I’ll have a chance to get where I want to be academically and socially.
I said the same thing about expectations in mine. I feel like senior year you'll have more time to be social. It's not as nerve racking as junior year and it's more fun. Just hang in there.
DeleteHey Kiley, I know exactly what you mean when you said "I am not exactly up to par on the intellectual level with all the other students in my classes..." I totally know where you're coming from and let me tell you, it's not going to be easy but I'm here with you! Also don't think that your social life isn't getting better anytime soon! You are a very nice girl and I don't know anybody who has a problem with you. I get balancing a social life and school work is hard but you can't always work and not play. Get yourself out there and you'll be fine!!
DeleteAll of my middle and high school career has been preparing me for the next grade up and eventually for the real world. My previous teachers, my peers, even my parents have told me that junior year is the year to not procrastinate and to focus on my studying. In the past, I would automatically agree because I was young and inexperienced with studious work so I had no reason to think otherwise. Even until now on the ninth day back to school, my junior year is exactly what they all said it was going to contain-- a lot of work. It’s not that the work is hard but there is just plenty of it. The only reason why it would challenge some students is because everyone has a different lives, schedules, and especially work ethics. Coming from, what you would call, “normal” classes during my sophomore year to AP and honors everything this year, it’s not what I’m used to but what some students already got the hang of last year. I, and surely plenty others, expect to learn. Learn in detail about lang and and how it is everywhere in the real world. This year I’ve heard that you will learn a lot about yourself by pushing yourself to your limits in any way you can think of. It maybe in sports, academics, or even a job. Hard work is what I think defines junior year. Without it, how else can you apply these mini life lessons to the real world. College may seem two years away for the most of us, but in reality it’s right around the corner waiting for us to walk down the Oakcrest football field. I hope and pray that I will still be sane by the end of this school year. Having to balance six classes of homework, softball, family and friends, food, and sleep is going to be rough no doubt. I know for a fact things will get unbalanced and stressful and to be honest who really knows how to handle all of that on their plate? Not I. I’m scared I will fall behind and be forced to drop out. I’ve been planning on taking this class since the end of freshman year when my friend, Paula, told me that Bunje’s class prepares you, and has prepared her for college life, which Paula is now a freshman at Temple University. Dropping out of a class due to failing grades is by far the worst case scenario for me. I believe you can’t fail something if you at least put some effort into it. Academically, I would say I’m a little above average but where I aim to be I’m not quite there yet which causes me bring myself down. I tend to do that often which is not okay but luckily I know how to bring myself back up. Socially, I would say, again, above average due to my various friend groups. I hold a special place for each of them in my heart and I hope they all know that. Physically, I would say I’m just below average. Sure I may look skinny and in shape but to be completely honest I’m not physically fit nor healthy. I eat more junk than vegetables and I don’t stay consistent with my workout plan. I’ve had seasons to where I was fully committed in going to the gym and working out for an hour or so but then I’ve had seasons to where I was not fully committed, a.k.a, extremely lazy to get out of my house. Yes I play softball in the spring and that is usually when I feel better about myself. The warm weather and physical activity works well for me, so I don’t mind doing work especially outside. A goal of mine this year is to expand each part of my academic, social, and physical life. Everyone always has room to improve and this year I’m determined to grow as a better person.
ReplyDeleteHi Jas! I just had to tell you that your post was so inspiring! That might just sound corny (but you already know I'm pretty corny, so it's okay) but it was really eye-opening at some points and at other points I really felt the same way about. For instance, when you talked about softball season and the warmer weather; I agree with you because during the winter time I get so miserable as the weather gets colder and colder. But once spring comes I get so happy! What was really eye-opening was your point about failing classes so bad that you force yourself to drop out, I know that never happened to you, but It's hard to believe that it happens sometimes to some people, that was really a thought-provoking statement.
DeleteHard work: that's all it really comes down to. You can do anything if you set your mind to it. You're right. It'll be a little challenging balancing sports and school, but to be completely honest with you, I think you'll do fine! No need to stress! Just learn how to manage your time and you'll be good!
DeleteJchiao, I think it's true that in junior year that you should push yourself. This year is gonna tough but you shouldn't be worried about dropping a class. Even though you transferred into advanced classes you're going to be fine because you got JRKZ to back you up.
DeleteI still can’t believe I’m a Junior. I feel so unprepared for college. I can’t even drive by myself. How am I supposed to live and take care of myself? I don’t think I’m even close to being ready for college yet, so how am I supposed to take a test that will determine something I’m not ready for? Junior year is perceived as the hardest year in high school because it potentially determines your life. Doing bad this year and doing bad on the SAT’s usually results in not going to college. Now and days, college is necessary to get any job. The better college someone goes to, the better chance they have at a good job, and a good job equals good money.
ReplyDeleteI have very little expectation for this year. For me, expectation leads to disappointment. So no matter how badly I do this year, I won’t be upset. I’m hoping to get better at grammar and speaking. Also, I would like to meet new people and make new friends. After all I am a transfer and I only know like half the people in this grade.
My fear for this year is procrastination. I tend to do it the most when I’m stressed out. I really want to do well this year so I’m trying my best to stay organized and not procrastinate at all.
I could always do better academically, socially, and physically. I just don’t try as hard I probably should. This year I’m actually going to try academically though.
Hey Ry! I agree, it is crazy to think that what bubble you fill in will determine your future! But sadly it's just how it is, but don't stress yourself out about it too much. I like how you said "expectation leads to disappointment", I think that is extremely accurate.
DeleteHi Ry! First things first, I went to ACIT my freshman year and came back sophomore year and for some reason my brain erased everyone I went to school with at Davies (we already established this in study hall last year) so I understand the feeling of not knowing many people in our grade. Second, do not automatically expect to be disappointed. That's honestly the worst thing you can do to yourself. How else can you expect to grow and have an open mind if "no matter how badly I do this year, I won't be upset."?
DeleteIt's crazy that we have to start making decisions that could affect the rest of our lives, especially since at our age we aren't trusted with very many things. But procrastination was a problem for me last year also. I think if we manage our time better, we'll be able to be a little less stressed.
DeleteHey, Ry!!! I totally relate to everything you said here. It's exactly how I feel about this year. But all in all, we have to go through it. It will be a tough journey but never an impossible one unless you try. A big part of the junior class is not ready for whats next after high school. But just know that along the way through this year, you have caring people that will support you and help you, such as me. My Claire Bear self will always be there for you!
DeleteHonestly, it is hard to believe that I am even a junior to begin with. These years flew by even more quickly than anyone has ever tried to explain to me. Throughout my middle school years my life was a jumbled mess, moving a school to a school and house to house, I never got the full concept of what a school environment was. I was so used to blowing in and out of each grade with no effort at all that I just thought school was a place to go just to waste time, don’t get me wrong I always put my best foot forward but it just didn’t seem like it was ever enough. Then I got to high school.
ReplyDeleteFreshman year seemed like any other year just running into my sophomore year. I’ll be totally honest, I did not take my sophomore year serious enough, which on paper looked pretty crappy but mentally it was the wake-up call that I needed. I focused more on bettering myself personally than academically. Now that junior year has slapped me in the face I have come to realize that people overreact to the cliché of how difficult junior is. I am only about three weeks into it and have already decided that as long as I do what I have to do it may not be as bad. I think it’s only intimidating because everyone is so consumed in what colleges and parents want from you rather than what you want for yourself.
Now when it comes to AP Lang, I always knew that no matter WHAT, I wanted to be in this class. Last year, I took AP Gov for all the wrong reasons and it was the biggest and most painful mistake of my life. The reason for that is because I took it because I thought it would look good on a transcript and to appease my parents; when, in the long run, I was the one who suffered. This year, AP Lang is the only AP course I elected to take; I took honors for the rest. The reason for this you ask? Simple.… I wanted to be able to devote as much time to this class as I possibly could and not for the grade, I could care less about what number the educational system wants to give me. I wanted to learn and enjoy all the benefits of this class willingly, I finally stopped trying to impress the world and did what I thought was best for myself. And I absolutely love it. What do I expect from this course? What anybody who had a brain would want, to learn useful information that I’m not going to walk out of the doors of Oakcrest and totally forget and then never use again!
Junior year is just another year; the only difference is this is the year most people decide to grow up a little in. I have a clear mind and perspective of what I need to do this year academically and socially. Academically I need to step up my game a little bit more but not whole heartily focus on what goes in the grade book but worry about what actually goes into my mind and personal knowledge. That’s my number one priority this year. Socially, I need to step that up a little too. I’m quiet to a degree, I’m not afraid to share my point of view on things through writing, but verbally I need to work on it. (That’s one of my secret obsessions with writing…it’s the only way I can fully express myself with no limit.) Overall, I feel like this year will be a success and as long as I do my end of the bargain the other will fall into place.
No doubt this year is going to be extremely difficult. I’m not sure if I’m ready for it but I expect there to be many late night cramming to study or do homework. Since I do three sports and other after school activities I normally won’t be home until 5:30 to 6:30, and some other nights, during winter track, I won’t be home until 11:30. So I will obviously be planning ahead. As for my actual classes, I have high expectations. I hope to learn a lot of material so I am ready for collage. AP Chemistry is definitely going to be a lot of work in a very short amount of time, and the same for APUSH and AP Lang. I am a pretty lazy person and I have a hunch that I will have to learn to plan ahead much better than I do as of now, and obviously stop procrastinating. I’m actually very worried that I will not do everything possible and quick enough for collage. There is a lot to do and I hope I do it all at the right time. Academically I need to get better at studying and not wasting time. In the long run I know that scholastics are very important and I need to understand the information I learn in order to succeed in life, but there are so many other things I’d rather do than homework. Therefore, I need to learn how to make homework more intriguing. I can already tell that I will be doing a lot of complaining this year, but I know that every single assignment that I do this year will pay off in the long run.
ReplyDeleteHi Joe! I agree with your post 100%. This school year, academically alone, is going to be hard. But including sports, clubs, and out-of-school activities, it is going to definitely be more challenging. Especially, once winter track comes along. But, I can tell that we all will do just fine, because if weren't going to be fine then we have never taken the rigorous courses that we do.
DeleteHey Joe your so right about everything you said it's going to be hard this year. I know that you play three sports and I know how talented you are but I also feel you on the stress of it all especially coming home late and having to do all that homework. Procrastinating Is a huge think especially when your considered lazy which I'm also saying is you and me. This year sport wise colleges are going to be looking at you especially for sports but they also want to look at your grades too if you shine on and off the field where can any good college go wrong with you, keep it up this year Joe!
DeleteHi, Joe! I agree with you that this year will be difficult when it comes to school work. The addition of sports will make this year astronomically difficult, especially in winter track season. This year is going to prepare us for the real world and we should use the failures and successes of this year as building blocks for the real world.
DeleteJoe I completely agree with you on how challenging this year will be trying to manage your time along with sports. But knowing you, I'm positive you will do perfectly fine. I am also a huge procrastinator but with all the work this year I won't really even have time to procrastinate (same goes for you). But don't be afraid to fail because set backs bring you back stronger.
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ReplyDeleteSATs, rigor of classes, GPA, class rank… the infamous reminder of why junior year is important, or so they say. They say colleges look at you during your junior year, so they say you better do well. Well, I say, so what if colleges are looking at you, either if it’s for academics or sports, I say as long as you do your best in anything you’re assigned to then you’ll be fine. But nothing in life is handed to you on silver platter, you have to earn that varsity spot or you have to earn a spot in the top ten. That is why I believe junior year is important because if you don’t work hard now to get into a good school or job after high school, then you will never have the motivation to work hard again.
My expectations for this school year are the typical goals for any high schooler: do well to get into a good college, do well to receive scholarship money, do well to have a nice future.
By taking AP Lang, I hope to get out something more personal than grades. I took AP Lang because I needed to push myself. College is just around the corner and I want to make sure that I am ready for it. Therefore, taking AP Lang is a “college test-run” as you could call it, and I wanted to experience it a little bit earlier.
The fears I had most about my junior year was taking AP Lang. The fears I had most about taking AP Lang was the work-load that is expected from all of us, meaning that I thought it would be too much for me and I would just pass out mid-school year in a pile of lit terms, reading logs, and/or essays.
At this point, I am where I want to be academically and socially because I get ‘OK’ grades and I am involved in a lot of different things. However, I am not where I want to be physically because I just recently had back surgery during summer break and that restricted me from doing a lot of things I liked to do, like playing field hockey in the fall with my friends. But other than that I am really happy on where I stand.
It’s so hard to say I’m in 11th grade, a junior in high school, and in less than 720 days I’ll be saying my goodbyes, or see you laters, to the people that made me who I am. I knew junior year was going to be tough. These were my first real AP classes that actually meant something to my future. I knew I had to my SATS and all those standardized tests that I always fail. I knew that every stressful time the upperclassmen sacrificed sleep meant that this was legit and the reality of the next few years of my life was just kicking in. So, I’m not scared of it. This is the year I find where I stand in all areas of my life and I can’t even begin to think where I want to be by the end.
ReplyDeleteI’ve never expected so much out of something ever before for some awkward reason. All of my friends talk about how important AP Lang was to them and how much it taught them as a whole. It's only the first month of school and I look forward to every day in 204. I have so much excitement to push myself and build my knowledge hence why I took AP classes.
Taking the classes I take, I’m nervous I’m going to miss a day or something and get left behind or fall off the turnip truck in Matlack’s terminology. Again, I’ve been told since 7th grade that this was the most important year ever but it truly is what you make out of it. If you focus on just these classes were all struggling through, you are going to have mental breakdowns. Being well rounded and putting your 100% effort into everything is way more like my idea of junior year. The classes I take are just another challenge I’m going to get through.
Last year I really slacked so no, I am not where I want to be academically. Not that I’m a terrible student but I definitely need to become a more hard working one. I took the easy way out of everything and procrastinated to the fullest and this year I will not let myself go that low again. Socially, I have the best friends and support system I can ask for. I have almost 0 drama, I have no “beef” with anyone, and I’m surrounded by my teammates that constantly know how to make me laugh. Physically, fitness wise, I would love to be stronger but I’m just chilling lowkey putting in work here and there. But I am always playing a sport, which is the one constant thing I love in my life.
Well Teagen, no matter what struggles you're facing or chances you're taking, keep your held high and just keep pushing on! Because no matter what we'll get through this tough and demanding year together as a family in 204! As we climb our way through junior year taking AP courses and challenging ourselves, in the end we have senior year to look forward to and junior year to look back on. And no matter what, the view will be great so make the most out of it. <333333
DeleteI related to this 100%. Almost as if I was reading my own thoughts. Yes of course this year will be a big challenge but we have each other and other people to help us along the way. It's hard to do it alone and so I'm here for you know matter what.:)))
DeleteTeag I know exactly how you feel when it comes to graduation and time flying by. Every time I think about it, it's like a reality check. I realize that in 720 days we will all be going our own ways and probably will never hear from each other again. The fact that this actually happens after high school breaks my heart. I've been with you guys for 8 years now and we've all became close. Also, don't worry Teag you won't fall off the turnip truck! if you ever need help or clarification on anything I'm always here, and I am sure you would do the same.
DeleteNow being a junior in high school is very stressful. Doing so many activities and trying to do school work is so hard. Everyone always thinks of me as someone that’s always happy and smiling but i’m not. Having cheer, dance, choir, track and field, and homework from every class carries a lot of stress. This will probably be the hardest year for me. It will take a lot of effort for me to learn because i’m not the smartest kid. With that being said I will have to try extra had and force myself to do things even when things get tough. Junior year is where everything matters and one little mistake can change everything. Colleges look at this year and I want to prove to the colleges that accept me that i’m more than what everyone thinks of me. Seeing myself now as a junior I never thought my year would be like this. I can honestly say I grew so much from where I started. I take AP classes and that’s something I never imagined my junior year being like. I never thought I was smart enough to. This year I know I will have many challenges and i’m prepared to struggle through them in order to succeed in life. Out of AP Lang I’m hoping to write better, speak better, and just learn different things that I had no idea about. My junior year is the year for me not learn that not everything goes my way. People have bad days and i’m trying to not get upset when something doesn’t go right in track and field. I am also trying to learn that not everyone else’s opinions matter and I should do what’s best for me. My fears of this class is that I won’t be good enough or push myself hard enough to get through it. Another fear is that I won’t pass my AP exam and I will feel like a failure. Academically, I am not where I want to be. I feel like I haven’t pushed myself or have been trying hard enough and I’m trying to change that. Usually one thing goes in one ear and out the other so I’m trying to actually grasp everything so I can use it. Socially and physically I am where I want to me. Well I’m still learning one step at a time.
ReplyDeleteI think that in high school it's important to understand that other peoples opinions don't matter. If you listen to what everyone has to say about you and what you do you'll find yourself even more stressed out then you should be. So I think it's great that your learning to forget about other people opinions and your focusing on the things that are good for you!
DeletePeople are right saying that this is supposed to be the toughest year in high school, but it really depends on what type of classes you take. I believe as an AP student that this year is going to be very strenuous but with my strong will and mental power I will go out with a bang at the end of this school year, just like I did with the last two. One thing I expect this year as a Junior is many hard choices I'll will have to come by, such as family, school, relationships, and other people in my life, because at this point in time for my school class I think this is are turning point for becoming responsible adults. I'm hoping that I will gain much wisdom and responsibility taking this class I like writing but I don't think I'm quite there in a sense of being the best writer I can be. The way Ms. Bunje have so far taught the class is very unique compared to other teachers even the english ones. She plays no games and is hard, and is most definitely going to be like that the rest of the year, but I respect her for the fact that she will continually push us as students to work harder. For the rest of my Junior year I'm just looking for knowledge in life whether that through my classes, sports, are people in my school. My fears about this class will probably be I will not keep up with the rest of the class, my mom looking down on me for not doing well in the class, and Ms. Bunje, for me to somehow get on her bad side. My fears for Junior year as a whole is to not let my life go down in a slow spiral with everything going on this year especially in the near future. Academically I'm just going to say I made it here and I am happy for that, I've kept good grades the last two years but I don't think that matters I am just content with what I have learned so far through high school and what I still have in my head. Other than that I like the title of varsity scholar which i am proud to have. Socially I've never cared, I don't like popular people it gives me a good reason not to be your friend on the other side though I'll be your friend if your nice to me. I am considered by many to be socially awkward I wouldn't call it that but I am different that is just the other term used. If you don't like the way I live and spend my time I don't blame you it's perfectly fine to not like someone who is different from you just don't waist my time please. I would rather have one friend who treats me like a brother than have a 100 friends who only care about me sometimes. I'm kind of pushing that reality this year. Physically I'm guessing you mean how fit I am and I'm going to tell you I love my body and I take care of it very well. I am a distance runner and a conditioned wrestler and I take these sports and my body as serious as I take my classes and my brain.
ReplyDeleteThis summer, so many people warned me about junior year that the word stressed can be considered one of my personality traits. I already thought sophomore year was hard enough, now I have two AP classes. Bless your soul if you have any more than that. I’ve never been the type of person to be motivated when it comes to school, so this year will be really challenging for me. This school year I wasn’t expecting myself to complete much of my schoolwork, but these past couple weeks have proven otherwise. Surprisingly, I completed every assignment on time so far without cramming all my work into one session. For some reason, I’m more motivated than I ever was before. Maybe something about junior year clicked something in me. Or maybe it’s because I started drinking coffee.
ReplyDeleteOut of all the subjects in school, English is definitely one of my favorites, even though I’m not much of a writer. I love the conversations that goes on in an English class because it gets deep. I like keeping an open mind about the world, so I’m hoping AP Lang would give me different views about everything. So far, my past two english classes never disappointed me. Now, especially that some seniors said they loved Lang, I can’t wait for what this class has in store for me. However, I have been warned that AP Lang is a tough class. I’m just afraid of the workload and not being able to have any free time, but I’ll be alright.
I know for a fact that my grades can be way better than it was last year. I know I didn’t try my hardest at all last year, so this year I’m trying to change that. I just have a habit of slacking after the second week of school. I really wanna challenge myself and be proud of where I am academically. Physically, I’m okay with myself, but there’s always room for improvement. Socially, I’m thankful for all my friends and I love them all. I’ve definitely grown as a person these past years. I’m way more confident and mature. I’m proud of the person I’m becoming, hopefully that’s the same for everybody else.
Yo Jan I completely agree with about being stressed more than ever about this year. But I couldn't agree more with you about the workload because I am very scared of it too. But I'm sure we'll do fine!
DeleteI got a lot of warnings about junior year also but I can agree that something definitely clicked so far this year. For me, I think it may have been the fear from all the warnings and stories that have helped me keep myself together and get my work done on time.
DeleteJZ! I feel you man, wanting to challenge yourself is great and I personally think you can handle two AP classes. You say you slack after the second week of school but trust me, we've all been there.
DeleteCongrats on the new year new you Jan Zachary Gonzales. Last year you and I were lazy and I’m proud of the fact that you’re stepping up this year. Moreover, the workload I admit is tough. But if you think about it, it is only for a year, and next year you can catch senioritis and rest knowing that you worked hard during junior year to deserve it. And my soul feels blessed every time I get ready to sleep and I see “p.m.” on the side of digital clock in my room. (Nowadays no one can read hands.) P.S. I’m thankful for you too ;)
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ReplyDeleteI’ve been told since eighth grade when I picked my freshman year courses that high school is very important, but that my junior year is the most important year of all four. I think all of high school in general is very important but junior year is a lot of testing to get good scores to get into college so I get where people are coming from when they say this year is the most toughest and demanding. But to tell me that this year is the toughest is different than me experiencing it and having my own opinion, which I can’t share with you until it’s over. For now I have very high expectations for myself junior year so that I stay focused and motivated, but it doesn’t drag me down if I don’t reach those expectations because I’m worth way more than a letter grade. Im taking my first two AP courses this year so I expect to be challenged, but of course I won't do perfect, but that’s understandable. Other than the good grade I want to get out of AP Lang, I just want to learn in general and be able to use what I learn since honors english 2 my sophomore year didn’t prepare me for anything other than how to read a book and take a test on it. For junior year in general, I want to be able to fully enjoy it with a lot less stress and anxiety than last year and get more involved. I want to make the most out of it since it’ll fly by even though we’re only in the third week of school.
Although I’m ecstatic for my junior year, I’m also very nervous for what it has to offer. I’m afraid I might get too overwhelmed or get lost just as I start to grasp something and feel grounded. Straight A’s would be lovely, ask anyone, but as I’ve gotten older and learned how to manage my OCD better, I’ve realized how unimportant stressing over a test, marking period, or final grade is. After going through elementary and middle school as an obsessive compulsive worrier of grades and not feeling good enough if I didn’t get straight A’s, in high school I’ve grown to understand that not only myself, but any student is worth much more than their grade or rank.
So personally, I am where I want to be academically, as well as socially and physically. I’m not the most popular, pretty girl with a clique of popular, pretty friends because I can’t stand the girl drama so I have a handful of friends who mean the most to me and that’s all I need. As for physically, I was thirty pounds heavier than I am now so I’m not complaining! But the ability to approve is in everything, so I hope to stay positive and stress free and enjoy my junior year no matter what it throws at me.
I’ve heard the horror stories about junior year since I was in elementary school thanks to having an older brother. Although I have heard mostly horror stories about this year I am excited to see what it has in store for me. My negative attitude has always taken a toll on my academics but for some odd reason I was able to enter this school year with a more positive attitude. I do believe that this year is going to be more demanding than previous years due to the fact that this is when we start considering our futures or begin making decisions about our future. This year I decided to take my first AP classes so that is something that makes me a little nervous but I’ve always enjoyed challenging myself in academics and in sports. I don’t really have any expectations for this year except for that it’s going to be stressful and that I’ll have to work hard throughout the entire year. My main fear of this class is all the writing that’s involved. I’ve never considered writing to be one of my strong points, but I am interested in seeing myself improve as the year goes on. With all the stress that 11th grade can bring I’m worried that I’ll stop thinking or caring about my own wellbeing. Last year my inability to fall asleep at a decent time took a huge toll on my mental state, physical state, and my education. I was sick non-stop and focused more on keeping my eyes open in class then the actual class. This year time management is going to be something I’ll need to work on but I believe that if I improve my work ethic and focus on the important things, like sleep, I can be successful socially, physically and academically.
ReplyDeleteHonestly, I can’t believe that I’m already a junior in highschool. I remember freshman year like it was nothing, and it scares me to see how fast my life is flashing by. For some odd reason I cannot accept the fact that I’m already a junior. The other day when they called down sophomores to the “Oakatorium” I got up and all of my friends laughed. The transition from sophomore year to junior year seems like a huge step.No? Well maybe it’s just me. I wouldn’t say that I am fully ready for junior year, but I am willing to do whatever it takes to adjust and take on the challenges that lie ahead of me. I have heard from several students, teachers, and parents that junior year is the toughest and most important. Teachers and parents tell us every year how hard it will be, but then the year turns out fine. So that is why I took those comments lightly. However, they weren’t kidding about this year.
ReplyDeleteWe are only in the third week of school and I am already overwhelmed, stressed out , and having a sucky year. I barely have any classes with the people I normally used to, my schedule sucks, and everything about this school year is just different. Although, I’m sure I will adjust to my schedule and hopefully try to make the best out of this year. The teachers expectations are very high, as they should be. Yet, I have this constant fear of not being good enough to meet those expectations, even though deep down I know I can. This year I plan to work on my confidence and not stressing out over every little thing. However, it is a lot easier said than done!
The only things that I expect to get out of my junior year is to learn and grow as an individual. I am not perfect, which is why I need to be guided and educated to become a better person. Also , this year I would like to find myself and embrace who I am. I want to take time this year to connect with myself. Yet, I don’t know how I will be able to find time for myself when I have a gazillion other things to stress about. I fear everything about this year. The teachers, the workload, managing my time, Sat’s, Ap exams, maintaining my grades, staying up until 4 in the morning, stressing out to the point where I cry, growing up, taking on more responsibility… simply everything. I am not where I want to be academically, because I just don’t think I am. Yet, that could be the whole lack of confidence thing kicking in. Maybe I am ready, and it's just time to take in more knowledge.
I could definitely say that I am where I want to be socially, because I interact with new people every day. However, I would like to make new friends and find the right ones for me. In the past I have been screwed over and used by many people, so it would be nice to find a decent group of friends. Also, this year I would like to have fun and go out more so that I can interact with even more people. Sometimes it feels a little awkward because everyone has their set group of friends and since I no longer have “best friends” I’m pretty much just there. And I don’t like to intervene in other people's friendships.
Last year I faced a few minor setbacks with track and cross country. My injuries caused me to miss out on many opportunities, so hopefully this year I will be back on my feet again. Overall, I can say that I am a little excited for this year. I am excited to develop a bond with my teachers, meet new people, learn new things, and hopefully enjoy my junior year.
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ReplyDeleteNever knew that junior year would approach so fast as it did. It blows my mind to be considering myself as a junior. The thought of junior year makes me only think about college. COLLEGE! I still feel somewhat like a freshman. Man, these past 2 years flew by before really realizing it.
ReplyDeleteI have only been a junior for about 2 weeks now and honestly I’m already stressing about all the upcoming tasks that I need to do before the year is over and the year just started. It’s hard to judge what I truly feel about junior year and its “difficulties”, but for now I agree with what teachers, parents and other adults have said how important and stressful this year is to be.
However, my expectations for this year are high, especially for AP Lang. I expect to be mentally, physically and academically prepared for the upcoming, such as college. I just have to push myself and work with others to achieve this. Most of all, I want to enjoy it. You only get to be a freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior once (unless for a variety reasons), so make the best of it.
Of course, fears are present for most people, like me. I’m afraid of failing, as like other people would be. But everyone fails, no matter what the case it is. You just have to move forward and correct the mistakes; that will make us better.
In all honesty, I don’t think I’m where I need to be academically. There’s so much room for improvement and that’s why I’m looking forward to this year. I’m just crossing my fingers. Socially, I have caring and supportive people surrounding me and I couldn’t be more thankful. Physically, I treat myself well and I’m constantly active. But I could be more fit.
Undoubtedly this will be the toughest year of my high school career. This is the first year that I have five AP classes: Biology, Lang, Macroeconomics, U.S. History, and Calculus. The ominous one (Gov) that I had for my sophomore year compared to the fearsome five I face this year is a joke. Sure, I bombed the AP Gov test, but that was because I was one lazy son of a barnacle*, and now is the time to change that. Unfortunately, this is also the year that my social life goes from “One-hundred to zero, real quick.” My nights have recently been occupied with the sounds of the keyboard and the occasional crackle of potato chips. On another more positive note, this is the year that I’ll know, at least by the end that all my hard work has paid off. That all those long hours reading at night and putting words on dead trees was worth it. That learning all those complicated words would save me from an unlikely life or death situation. Additionally, in terms of where I want to be academically, socially and physically, there is always room for improvement and there’s always more to learn. Luckily, that’s the only reason why I survive the flood of AP homework. The tether that keeps me grounded inside the hurricane called, “junior year,” is my lust for knowledge. I find it completely and utterly satisfying when learn something new. #Facts, #Thirst4Knowledge, #TheThirstIsReal
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