Freshman year, you're still young and naive as you try to figure out the little details of college. By sophomore year, you start to learn and realize more mature things that will help you succeed during the rest of your college career. Everyone has a different college experience, but so far, being in college has been the best thing that has ever happened to me. These are the most notable things I learned sophomore year.
1. Roll with the punches.
My grandparents told me this at the beginning of the year when nothing seemed to be going my way. Everything really does happen for a reason, even if that reason isn’t clear at the moment, it will be eventually.
2. Learning how to manage your time is the best thing you could ever do.
At this point in time, it’s ok to not be a pro at managing your schoolwork, social life, and you-time, these things come with time. Once you learn how to balance all of the things you need to do, a huge weight will be lifted off your shoulders.
3. Remember why you're here.
Without the academic part of college, you wouldn’t be able to enjoy the perks that come with being a college student. Prioritizing your schoolwork allows you to keep enjoying the social aspect of college!
4. People come and go...
… and that’s ok! Sometimes it’s difficult to realize who is meant to be in your life and who isn’t. Finding valuable friends and building relationships is a huge part of college life and life in general. It will eventually become apparent who belongs in your life and who doesn’t, it’s all part of growing up.
5. Time goes by faster as you get older.
They say time flies when you’re having fun, this statement could not be truer. I remember moving into my dorm Summer C like it was yesterday, and here I am, halfway through my college career.
6. Being involved looks good and feels better.
Although a perk of being involved on campus is building your résumé, being involved in college clubs and activities relieves stress and can even make a difference in the lives of other people in addition to your own.
7. Leaving your "bubble" can lead you to amazing things.
Step outside your comfort zone. You never know what you might learn, who you might meet, or what you might be exposed to.
8. Set goals for yourself.
Reaching the goals you’ve set for yourself is the most indescribable feeling, not reaching your goals motivates you even more!
9. Don't forget about your family.
Family can include literal blood or your closest friends. Either way, these are the people who will be in your life forever, will be your biggest cheerleaders, and biggest motivators. Always stay in touch with them, because they are part of the reason you are where you are today.
10. Don't take this for granted.
College is literally a different planet. There are so many things that are acceptable in college that aren’t in the real-world. If I’ve learned anything this year, it’s to appreciate every little moment, because you’ll never get this experience back.
