Which year of college is considered the most demanding?

I've heard very mixed opinions about which year in college tends to be the toughest. Some say freshman because of the transition, others say junior because of the increased workload. Can anyone give me some perspective?

From an academic load perspective, you'll often find that the third year, or junior year, tends to be the most demanding. It's during this time that students typically dive into the core classes for their declared major, which are generally more challenging than introductory or general education classes.

Additionally, many students use this year to cram in internships, study abroad experiences, or leadership roles in extracurricular activities, all of which can add to the overall workload and intensity of your academic life. For example, as an economics major, you might be tackling advanced macroeconomic theory, econometrics, and finance courses while also juggling an internship at a local bank, making for a challenging but rewarding year.

But remember, it varies for everyone! Some students may find their first year hardest due to the adjustment to college-level academics and living away from home for the first time, while others might struggle more in their final years due to thesis projects, job searches, or anticipating life after graduation. The key is to be proactive about managing your time and seeking help when you need it.