04 Sep Road Map for September: Sophomores

Welcome back to school—I hope it’s off to a great start! Even with a year of high school under your belt, it still may feel like a time of transition—adjusting to new classes, getting to know your teachers, and figuring out where you want to focus your energy. Give yourself some room to settle in and think about how you can build on last year’s successes while improving in areas that might have been more challenging.

Academics should remain your top priority, so take time to understand your teachers’ expectations and establish good study habits early. At the same time, this year is a wonderful opportunity to explore and deepen your involvement in activities. If you tried out a few clubs last year, think about which ones you’d like to commit to more fully. If you haven’t found your niche yet, test out some new opportunities, whether it’s a club, sport, a part-time job or even a new hobby. Remember, colleges value any meaningful use of your time, not just structured activities run by official organizations.

Finally, set some goals for yourself this year, both academic and personal. Writing them down and sharing them with someone you trust can help keep you accountable as you take the next steps in high school.