The second semester of junior year is generally regarded as a crucial moment for college admissions. It is usually a time for students to showcase all the progress they have made, academically and in clubs, athletics, theater, etc. But with COVID continuing to impact all aspects of life, this admissions cycle is hardly a return to normal. The silver lining is that most colleges will still be evaluating students on a more holistic basis, as many announce plans to continue with test-optional policies. Colleges know that some schools gave A's to everyone last year (even if yours didn't). They know that your plays, sports, yearbook, clubs, etc. all got cancelled or look very different. Here, then, is some advice to juniors:

Breathe

First and foremost, take care of yourself and your family. We may all have adjusted to what life looks and feels like now, but it doesn't mean that it's all easy. Take breaks and ask for help when you need it.

Don't (Overly) Stress About Your Grades

Obviously, schoolwork still counts, so this is no time for slacking. But colleges evaluate you on what coursework you had available and what you opted to take, as well as your grades. They will still see your course load (rigor!) as well as your grades before (and after) this crisis hit. Be extra kind to your hard-working teachers--and not just because rec letters may take on extra significance this year.

Prep for AP Exams and ACT/SAT

You should still plan on taking these exams, even if many schools on your list are now test-optional. Get in touch with your teachers, and take advantage of the widely available (and now free) resources online to prepare.

Be Flexible

Be ready for colleges to pivot and add new application pieces (maybe they will add an essay or require interviews for test-optional applications). They are in as much turmoil as everyone else is, so have patience and courtesy. As you look towards summer, understand that plans may change and you may need to develop a completely different summer experience. Think about options you can do virtually and in-person.

Reflect

This experience has changed you, whether you have taken time to process that yet or not. Think about what matters most to you as well as what you want out of your college experience. This reflection will come in handy when you are writing essays!

Engage

Take advantage of all of the virtual resources colleges are offering, from live tours to chats with admissions officers. Investigate ways to connect with campuses and their communities. And on a personal level, engage in an activity or interest of your own. Now is the time to tackle that list of books you wanted to read or learn that new programming language. You have been living through a unique moment in history. Maybe you want to document it through a journal, art, photography, or music. Do something for you.