Freshman year is a blur of new hallways, crowded stairwells, and figuring out which gym you’re in. By tenth grade, you’re no longer the newest face, but you’re not quite an upperclassman yet. Sophomore year sits in that middle space, and how you handle it can shape the rest of high school.
The biggest lesson I learned as a sophomore is that freedom goes both ways. In middle school, teachers chased you down if you missed homework. In high school, nobody is running after you. It’s easy to treat that freedom like a free pass.
Skipping class sounds harmless, but it gets addictive fast. It can easily turn into a pattern, and suddenly you’re staring at a grade that you don’t recognize. I watched friends slip into that cycle and felt it myself—the thrill of leaving early isn’t worth the panic of catching up.
Tenth grade is when your transcript begins to shape college options and program placements. This doesn’t mean every test decides your future, but a steady effort saves you from playing catch-up. Review notes after class, start projects the day they’re assigned, and talk to teachers if you need help.
Attendance isn’t just about keeping your GPA alive. Being present keeps you connected. Teachers are here to help, but they can only help if they see you. If you’re confused, ask questions during class or stay after for a few minutes. If you miss an assignment, check Google Classroom or TeachHub. High school rewards responsibility more than excuses, and even a quick daily check of your email can save you from surprises.
Sophomore year is also when school stops feeling like a list of requirements and becomes a community. Clubs and sports aren’t just résumé fillers; they help you to discover new interests and meet people who share them. Soccer, volleyball, and basketball are classics, but there’s room for every interest.
Art Club lets you experiment and exhibit your artwork. Yearbook Club gives you a camera and a deadline, turning everyday moments into history. Even if you’re not sure what to join, Club Rush is the perfect place to explore. A five-minute conversation at a table can lead to new, unpredictable connections.
Most importantly, don’t forget to balance work with play. Eat lunch with different people. Cheer at a game you don’t even understand. These small moments create the memories that last long after final grades are printed. You only get one sophomore year; it’s your chance to balance responsibility with discovery.
Jaedon Williams, 2027
