WGHS Sophomores Question if "Sophomore Slump" is Real or Not

WG sophomores discuss their inside views and their lives during sophomore year, and if they believe “Sophomore Slump” is real or not.
by Audrey Ford and Sage Dickenson

For many students, sophomore year can feel different from freshman year. Classes become more challenging, schedules get busier, and students may find themselves adjusting to new responsibilities. While some students experience what is often called the "sophomore slump," others do not feel it at all. For sophomores at WGHS, the experience seems to depend on the student and how they handle the changes that come with the new school year.
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Madilyn Calleros said she experienced a "sophomore slump" at the beginning of the year, but feels differently now. However, she noticed a difference in the difficulty of her classes compared to freshman year. "Freshman year, the classes were easier and I was more focused; the classes now are just a lot harder," Madilyn said.

To keep up with schoolwork and her activities, Madilyn does most of her work after school and practice. She also tries to complete as much work as possible during class. When she becomes stressed, she said she talks to her friend Alyssa, which helps her release her emotions. Her advice to freshmen preparing for sophomore year is simple: "Lock in, because if not, your GPA will be bad and hard to fix."

Addison Moss also said she has experienced the "sophomore slump." She described sophomore year as being harder academically and socially. "It's definitely harder on every single level, and there's more drama," Addison said. "You find out who's your real friends and who's your fake friends." Unlike some students, Addison does not participate in sports. Instead, she prefers spending her free time relaxing at home or with friends. When she is stressed, her main strategy is getting some sleep. Her advice for incoming sophomores is to "mentally prepare yourselves."

Not every sophomore has experienced the slump, however. Chady Lacroix said he does not think the "sophomore slump" is a real issue for him. Although he thinks this year is more difficult than freshman year, he still finds it enjoyable. "It's definitely harder—the teachers are a little bit more strict—but it still is fun," Chady said. He also hopes to earn grades similar to those he got last year. Chady said managing school and other parts of his life happens naturally for him rather than through a specific schedule. When he needs to deal with stress, he said he likes to go to sleep or take a walk. His advice for freshmen is to appreciate their first year of high school. "Freshman year is fun, so remember it well," Chady said. "It's gonna be the best time of your life."

Although these three students have different experiences, their answers show that there is no specific way to experience sophomore year. Some students feel the increased academic and social pressure, while others adjust without much difficulty.

Sophomore year may come with new challenges, but students find different ways to adapt. Whether that means staying organized, paying attention in class, getting enough rest, or leaning on friends, finding a strategy that works can help students make it through the year while still enjoying high school.