The first legit year of high school. This is the year when you start to have a more authentic high school experience unlike freshman year. Most people are turning 16, you can get your license, get a job, and have a lot more independence overall. Classes are harder than the year before, more is expected of you. You kind of have to have some idea of what college you want to go to so you can a head start on requirements etc. despite all the hype of not being a freshman anymore, you're still not really an "upperclassmen" until junior year. unfortunately.