In less than two weeks my junior year comes to a close, and I can’t wait for summer. This year has been exciting living in my first apartment, really being challenged in my classes, and getting ready for what comes next. Along the way I learned a lot, so here’s some advice on how to survive junior year.

This past year I have probably sent hundreds of emails and while I am not a huge fan of talking on the phone, email isn’t always the best way to contact people. A professor once told my class people feel like they can ignore emails without feeling the drive to call back, but not with phone calls. I agree for the most part, but I am also a fan of tracking down professors and other official’s offices. I have gotten lucky a few times, and they have been there and able to help me. So take a chance and make the walk.

In my Capstone class, where I am finishing up my senior thesis (eight pages left), I have come to rely on the library and librarians. I have a stack of eight books which I am blessed I didn't have to buy because I got them from the library. In a personalized research session, I was able to find more keywords to search my topic and find primary sources that, trust me, can be a pain.

No matter where you are living, whether it be a dorm or apartment, make sure you do your part in maintaining the place where you live. Whether it is sweeping the floor or taking out the trash, any bit helps. Your living environment will be so much better when everyone partakes in maintaining it.

Time management is so crucial. Finding a balance between all your classes and assignments is hard, but I found after getting into the groove of the semester it becomes easier to balance it out throughout the week.

Also, don't work yourself to death. Spending hours studying and doing homework is important, but it’s also important to not wear yourself out. Take a break to go to the gym or walk around the mall. Making time to watch “Star Wars” and eat ice cream is also very important.

One universal truth I learned this year: Food expires faster when you buy it.

This year has been great and as I get ready for crunch time and the rush of finals I look forward to the adventures of this summer and Glasgow next fall. This year was great but bring on senior year.