As June creeps around the corner, the time will soon come to say goodbye to our seniors and make way for the up-and-coming underclassmen. It’s easy for those underclassmen, especially juniors, to stress about their senior year, so with some teacher help, I have compiled 3 tips to help you have a successful senior year.

My first tip is best given to current freshmen; take as many hard classes as you’re able to in your sophomore and junior years. Of course, don’t take anything that would be far too overwhelming, but of all the credits you need to graduate, it’s in your best interest to complete the ones you least enjoy before your senior year. Save classes you look forward to for your senior year, it will save you a lot of stress in the long run. Of course, if you plan on doing running start it’s a different story, but for those staying in the high school, heeding this tip could save you a lot of senior-year headaches.

My next tip comes from American Civics and Global Issue teacher Dan Strojan. Strojan highlights the importance of STEP assignments, which are a series of assignments you complete in your ACGI Class in order to graduate. Strojan suggests planning ahead, writing down due dates and planning how you’re going to complete them on time. As bonus tips, Strojan highlights the importance of picking a senior mentor you “have a good relationship with,” such as a former teacher you got along well with. You have to be able to talk to them throughout the year, and it’ll be a lot less awkward if you pick someone you’re comfortable speaking to. Strojan’s final note is to utilize the Future Ready Center. They have several resources that can help you with these STEP assignments, and there’s no denying that getting as much help as possible will be great.

My final tip is to set aside time to plan for your future. Even as underclassmen, it’s ideal to be taking time to figure out what your situation will be as you pursue your post-high school plans. Whether it be college, a trade school, the military, or going directly into work, knowing what your overall situation will be is crucial.

So, whether you’re going to be a sophomore, junior, or senior next year, take this advice into consideration. It could mean the difference between an easy senior year and a year without sleep. That comes down to what you prefer.