There's a lot to be said about one's sophomore year at college. You're no longer a fresh-faced first-year who is ready to conquer the bus system, but you haven't quite reached the threshold of bars and job offers. No, you're stuck somewhere in between. You're at the hot and cold meeting point of no longer getting lost on campus and not having enough credits to create the perfect schedule. It's a year to buckle down academically and step up to new challenges.
Having just finished my sophomore year, I learned more in two semesters than I ever thought possible, and the lessons that I've learned outside the classroom are the ones that have stuck with me the most.
Six things I learned my sophomore year are:
1. Make Time For What You Love.
Whether it's taking the extra time out of a busy day to go for your daily run or attending weekly meetings for your position in your sorority, this lesson is one to remember in college and throughout life. If it makes you happy, take the time to make it happen!
2. Some Things Are Worth Stressing About.
College is a melting pot of countless factors, all of which take up your time. Friends, nights out, extracurricular activities and more all require attention, and it can be easy to forget about deadlines or other important things. With that being said, we're at school for a reason and a healthy dose of stress can keep you motivated to do your best.
3. It Matters Who Your Friends Are.
Freshman year resulted in quick friendships and a lot of connections. Sophomore year, on the other hand, can bring changes that test those friendships. With only four years at school to make and maintain friendships, it may be hard to end those that are toxic and draining. But, with academics becoming more rigorous and schedules becoming busier, it's essential to surround yourself with people who support and encourage you, not who fill the little free time you have with pointless drama.
4. It's Okay To Be A Little Selfish (Sometimes).
This goes along with the idea that it's okay to say, "No." Although many of us find ourselves squeezing more and more into our schedules, sophomore year has taught me that sometimes, it just isn't possible. Your time and efforts are precious. It's okay not to offer to take someone's shift at work the night before your exam. It's okay to say, "Sorry, no," when that guy you barely know from class asks to copy your assignment. Sometimes you have to put yourself first, and there's nothing wrong with that.
5. Learn From Your Mistakes.
This one is as true in one's sophomore year as it is at any age. Whether it's academically, socially, financially or otherwise, you will face ups and downs. You may forget to submit an assignment, or maybe you didn't know to bring copies of your resume to an interview. Whatever the case may be, sophomore year will teach you the importance of overcoming your mistakes, whether it's for your GPA's sake or for your future.
6. Put Yourself Out There.
This lesson is especially true in one's sophomore year. Freshman year, things were new and relatively simple. Maybe you joined a few clubs or a Greek organization, and maybe you found a group of friends from your dorm along the way. Sophomore year, on the other hand, meant gaining positions in those clubs, branching out to new people in classes to expand your circle and applying for your first internship. Pushing yourself out of your comfort zone is part of what college is all about, and whether it's academically, socially or more, it's worth it.
