How to Prepare for Sophomore Year

Sophomore year is perhaps one of the best years of high school. After taking Freshman year to adjust, Sophomore students are now adapted to life in high school, balancing both the workload and social life along with after-school activities. Before the stress of the SATs and ACTs that comes Junior year, or the high-maintenance college search, Sophomore year is a big opportunity to get involved at school and take interesting classes. It also presents a great chance to get a head start on preparing for all of the testing that takes place Junior year. The Sophomore year curriculum requires time management and focus on a fine balance between school and extracurriculars, but can easily become the most stress-free year of high school if you follow these simple steps:

  • Write down all assignments in a planner or notebook as soon as they are assigned to you. Set reminders on your phone or put sticky notes with upcoming tests, quizzes, and projects where you will see them daily.
  • Try to get ahead on bigger assignments when you can. If you have free time during the school day or aren’t assigned a lot of homework on any given night, work on upcoming assignments that will require more time. Try not to save all your work for the night before.
  • Sign up for clubs or after-school activities that you will enjoy. Participation in extracurriculars is important on college applications, and it is much better to be involved in organizations over a long period of time.
  • Work towards a position of leadership, whether it’s on the school’s Student Council, an executive board of a club, or a job as a head counselor at a summer camp.
  • Start looking towards a job for the summer or during any season that you are available. It always helps to have cash for hanging out with friends or to put towards college, and you can pick up valuable skills at any work establishment.
  • Most importantly, don’t stress out about school too much! Try to have fun during your Sophomore year, it will fly by very quickly. Make sure to leave time for family and friends amidst all the hustle and bustle of the school year, and focus on enjoying your time in high school!

By Caitlin Wilson ’18

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