Juniors, it’s time. Hell year has arrived. Junior year is touted as the worst years of high school, marked by sleepless nights, millions of extracurriculars, crammed volunteer hours, varsity athletics and a higher course load. And looming over it all, a sense of dread that can only be brought on by one thing: college.

Though it’s not all bad, your junior year is your penultimate year of childhood that offers both hills and valleys, triumphs and challenges. Summit senior Ysabel Delisi thinks junior year is both a time to advance within favorite activities and try new ones.

“I tried something new by joining theatre and also got to play a leadership role in speech and debate,” said Delisi.

At this point, you’re familiar with the school. After two years at Summit, you know the classes, the teachers and the best spots to study (Mr. Platt’s classroom is a highlight — he always has fun music playing). This familiarity is the perfect base to branch off from and push yourself.

“I would tell [juniors] to take risks and challenge themselves,” said Delisi. “If you don’t think you can do something, you’re probably selling yourself short.”

It can be scary to take on AP classes or be the one showing the freshmen around your activities, but you’re not alone. You’ve had two years of classes under your belt, and a network of friends. You have the support systems to succeed.

While it’s not yet time for you to stand at the front at football games, junior year is an adventure. Yes, there are challenges to face, but you have all the tools you need to succeed.