This year has flown by, and as spring quarter winds down and nearly comes to an end, so is my sophomore year here at UC Davis. As I reflect back on the past year, I realize it was pivotal in various ways. While I became more acclimated to campus life, there were countless other ways in which I was challenged and evolved. Whether it be navigating friendships or establishing new study habits, the year was filled with immense growth. A year filled with both challenges and self-discovery, here are some key lessons I’ve learned while navigating my second year of university.
While freshman year is a year of many firsts, sophomore year brings a variety of new experiences as well. For many, including myself, it’s the first year living in an apartment. Apartment life is definitely a shift from the perks that come with dorm living. There’s a new set of responsibilities that come with having an apartment and it truly feels like the start of adulting. While I miss having food readily available to me at the dining halls, and now heavily rely on Trader Joe’s and my air fryer, living off campus and having my own space has been unbeatable. Not only have there been shifts in living arrangements but also in the friendships I had formed. Reflecting back on this year, I have realized just how much has changed since freshman year. Friendships shift as people take on more responsibilities and college life undeniably grows busier. However, I’ve come to realize that all these changes are part of the process. Not everything is going to stay just as it was in freshman year and that’s okay.
Additionally, this year I feel I finally developed effective study habits. The main thing I have prioritized this year is attending class. My first year I was still figuring out what worked for me and did not realize how much actually going to class pays off. I have done significantly better in the classes I’ve made an effort to actively participate in and attend. This may be a simple tip, but it’s effective. I’ve made a conscious effort to really prioritize organization this year as well. My planner has definitely become my holy grail! Creating a detailed schedule for my week and extensive to-do lists have been driving forces behind my productivity.
Notably, the most important lesson that I learned this year was that it’s never too late to try new things. There was so much I wanted to do my freshman year that I did not get a chance to experience. Though I was hesitant, I realized it’s never too late to join a new club, try out an activity, or meet new people. Regardless of what year you are in, put yourself out there and explore different opportunities.
Overall, this year I’ve learned that while prioritizing school is critical, finding a balance is equally vital. This year felt like a second chance allowing me the opportunity to broaden my horizons. I prioritized school while still making an effort to try new things and step outside my comfort zone. Sophomore year, though filled with its own challenges, was a rewarding year filled with growth and exciting opportunities.