As a freshman, you come to college bright-eyed and ready for new experiences. Sophomore year often brings a lot of stress and you learn who you really are. Going into junior year, you realize that your world is really changing. Junior year is sometimes referred to as the "make it or break it year," and for most people, it goes by the fastest.

Overall, junior year will be the most important year of your college career. Here's why:

Surprisingly, this year can be full of a lot of firsts.

You might get your first place by officially moving off campus. Whether that place is an apartment with your significant other or a house full of your best friends, you'll be filled with excitement as you sign your name on the lease.

You'll become more of a leader.

If you're in any organizations at your university, this is the year to really step up and take on a leadership role. Run for president or plan a big fundraiser. Whatever you choose to do, make your mark on the organization.

A career starts to fall into place for you.

Many people start to start taking classes in their major's program during their junior year. Along with this, you will need to start seriously thinking about entering the "real world" of internships, student teaching, and job searching.

You continue to gain independence.

As sad as it is, you won't see your family as much now that you might be living off campus. You will learn to make decisions for yourself and grow into your own, strong person.

Go into your junior year of college with the mentality that you're ready to take on the world. It will go by fast, but it will be full of amazing memories. Junior year will be the most important, but best, year of your college career.