Being a second-year student comes with added responsibility. You don’t have to be the top-dog on campus, and you don’t have to have everything figured out just yet. But here are 6 things they don’t tell you about being a college sophomore in Midland, TX
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1. They will expect you to know things
Scheduling for classes, what you are expected to take in sequence, checking emails, etc. These are things professors will expect you have figured out. You will notice less reminders about when things are due (if any) and will often be referred to the syllabus for details and due dates. If you are not in the habit of checking email at least 3 times throughout the day, set it up to get push notifications to your phone. Missing important emails because you didn’t see them is no longer an acceptable excuse. Make sure to check with your academic advisor about your class schedule for next semester and craft a path to graduation, so that you are aware of what sequence of classes and progress you must make. Simply not knowing is not going to excuse you from a requirement.
2. You are closer to graduation than you think
Academic advisor can help to create a graduation plan, career services will allow you to start on a resume, and both of these will help you to see what should be on there (in enough time to get it in). Start to build references/relationships this year. In just 2-3 short years (or 4 even shorter 15-week semesters) you will putting yourself out in the job market. Make sure you are working towards that goal every day, even if just a small bit.
3. There are still supports available
Freshmen tend to get a lot of support that first year. Rightfully so. A tough transition can be made smoother with supports in place at every turn. Sophomores have less publicly known supports, but they are truly there. If you feel as though you are still “not getting it” as in a class, or the way college functions in general, talk to your advisor or counselor. They are employed by the college to help ALL students get acclimated and comfortable with their environment-not just freshmen! And don’t feel like you have to have everything figured out. One step at a time acknowledging that you need some help goes a long way.
4. Professors really aren’t that scary
In year 2, you should have come to realize that a lot of the hype you heard from others about professors is all a matter of perspective. You may not like their personality type or delivery methods, but if you show up and put in your best efforts, professors really do want to see you do well.
5. You need to schedule your free time
It is important to experience non-academic things during your time in college. Though a lot of these will be impromptu, many of them can (and should) be scheduled. Create a time to go out with friends each week. Schedule it in your phone and in your planner so that it is something you can see and work towards each day. Also, if you have completed all other “work” related items for the day/week, you will enjoy a stress-free time, not having to worry about working on that paper or getting that reading done.
6. Join a club
It is very important to prioritize your classes and work, but it is also important to be part of something on campus. Many clubs and allow for basic participation to become a member so even if you have limited time or are nervous about making a commitment, there are options available. Of course, extra curriculars related to your major always look good on your resume, but also ones that are not can demonstrate your well-roundedness or skill/interest in another area. It is also just a fun way to find a group of like-minded people on campus.
NJ D.
” The program has geared me up for success not only in the classroom but also in life. Having a dedicated plan day in and day out has helped me achieve so much. With the help and guidance from ACS, I was able to graduate college (which I never thought could happen) and have helped me land my dream job right out of college! Thank you ACS!! “
Joe D.
” I was able to improve my test scores, improve my overall grades and even make dean’s list. I also gained a new mentor, coach, and friend. I am using the skills I learned through ACS daily in my career such as planning, focusing, and prioritizing my tasks each day. “
Carolina B.
” I struggle with time management and I have learned that I need accountability to finish and reach my goals. Having someone who cares about my success, offering tools and strategies to get there, has been crucial for my professional and personal development. I am so grateful for this support from ACS in this journey. “