Sophomore College Counseling Blog | The Dunham School | Private PreK-12 | Baton Rouge, LA

Thinking Ahead: How Your Sophomore Year Choices Can Shape Your Future

August 2025

Now that the "new kid" jitters are behind you, it's easy to fall into a routine. But here's a secret: your sophomore year is far more important than you might realize, especially when it comes to setting the stage for college.

Think of freshman year as learning the ropes. Sophomore year? That's when you start choosing which ropes to climb. The decisions you make now, from the classes you pick to how you spend your time outside of school, can significantly impact your options for college placement down the road.

Here's how your sophomore choices can shape your future:

1. Your Course Selections Matter (More Than You Think!)

This isn't just about fulfilling requirements anymore.

• Challenge Yourself (Wisely): If you're doing well in a subject, consider taking the next level up. Maybe that's an honors class, or perhaps it's exploring a new, more advanced elective. Colleges like to see that you're willing to push yourself academically. This shows them you're prepared for the rigor of college-level work.
• Explore Interests: Did you discover a passion for science, history, or even debate in your freshman year? Sophomore year is a great time to take more classes in those areas. Not only will you learn more about what genuinely interests you, but it also helps colleges see a consistent academic interest, which can strengthen your application.
• Consider Future Majors: While it's early, if you have a vague idea of what you might want to study in college (e.g., engineering, nursing, liberal arts), look at the recommended high school courses for those fields. Starting to build a foundation now makes junior and senior year course selection much smoother. TIP: Use your Naviance account to identify and research possible careers and majors!

2. Extracurriculars: Deepening Your Involvement

You've probably joined a club or two as a freshman. Now it's time to get more involved.

• Go Beyond Membership: Instead of just showing up, aim for a more active role. Can you join a committee? Take on a small leadership position? Help organize an event? Colleges are looking for dedication and impact, not just a long list of activities.
• Explore New Passions: Didn't find your niche last year? Try something different! Whether it's a sport, a volunteer group, the school yearbook, or a club, finding something you genuinely enjoy and committing to it shows initiative and develops valuable skills.
• Consistency is Key: Colleges prefer to see sustained involvement in a few activities rather than sporadic participation in many.

3. Start Thinking About Standardized Tests (Yes, Already!)

The PSAT/NMSQT is usually taken in October of junior year, but at Dunham, sophomores will take it too as a practice test (don’t worry, colleges and universities will not see the scores).

• Familiarize Yourself: Taking a practice PSAT (you will have a PSAT prep course built into the Dunham schedule) is a low-stakes way to understand the test format, question types, and pacing.
• Identify Strengths and Weaknesses: The results can give you valuable feedback on areas where you might need to focus your studies for the actual SAT or ACT later on. This early insight can give you a significant advantage when you start serious test prep as a junior.

4. Build Relationships with Teachers and Counselors

• Ask Questions and Engage: Show your teachers you're interested and engaged. Participating in class discussions and seeking clarification when needed helps them get to know you as a dedicated student.
• Why it Matters: When you apply to college, you'll need letters of recommendation. Teachers who know you well and can speak to your academic strengths, character, and potential will write much stronger recommendations than those who barely know your name. Your sophomore teachers are often your first opportunity to shine.

Sophomore year isn't just a bridge between freshman year and the intense junior year. It's a critical period for exploration, growth, and laying down the groundwork for your academic future. By making thoughtful choices now, you'll open up more doors and feel more confident when it's time to apply for college. Make it count!