20 Tips from a College Sophomore

Hello wonderful people!

I have been excited about doing this post since the beginning of the school year. My 20 Tips from a College Freshman post is one of my most viewed posts I have done since starting this blog. I hope this one is enjoyed just as much! This is also my 50th blog post!

1. Living in an on-campus apartment style dorm room is heavenly. I have loved my living situation this year so much! I have my own room and my roommates and I share the kitchen, bathroom, dining area, and living room. There is a lot of space to work with! It's a little outdated, but when you decorate, it makes everything better!

2. At UNCC, there are several apartment style dorms to choose from. I'm thinking that other campuses have similar housing options. When choosing your dorm, I would definitely suggest living on a hall. That is the only thing I do not like about my dorm- we just have stairwells that lead to our apartments. It doesn't really give you a chance to meet new people or interact with your neighbors. Luckily, there are a few more housing options that are apartments and are on halls for next year!

3. Coffee is still an important part of your life! Which leads me to my next tip...

4. If you're wanting a cup of coffee before class (and let's face it- none of us really like to put in the effort to make it ourselves before an 8 a.m.) go to Starbucks! I know, such a common white girl thing. There will probably be a line, but just order a tall Pike Place. You'll get it at the register and you don't have to wait for your name to be called at the counter. Spice it up with some half and half, vanilla powder, and sugar. You will be all set for your class! Plus, it's only a dollar and some change.

5. Classes become so much more important this year. You actually dive into your Major classes and start to pick up some of your Minor classes as well. Go to class. You're one more year closer to graduation! Plus, when you put in the effort it, it feels great to make the Dean's List!

6. I changed my Minor this year and it scared me to death! I thought I would be put so far behind, but it didn't. That was a relief. It may not be the same way for everyone, but if you're not happy with what your doing, change it. However, be careful with changing your Major! That's what will set you back the most.

7. Speaking of classes, they should be easier this year in the sense that they are in the same area or building. I only have to go to two different building this semester, compared to the four or five from previous semesters. That's the beauty of getting into your Major classes!

8. Wait to order your textbooks. Last semester, I ordered every single "required" textbook that was listed. Required is for the birds. I only opened maybe two of the textbooks for my classes. What a waste of money! Wait to order them until you go to class and the professor explicitly says, "You need the textbook."

9. Get used to seeing the same faces this year. Not that it's a bad thing! Since your classes are focused on your Major, you will most likely be in classes with the same people. That will give you a chance to know them! Especially with Education majors!

10. Netflix is still a great way to waste time and probably always will be.

11. Get a job this year! Freshman year is for getting situated and knowing the area. Sophomore year is about growing up a little more. Jobs on campus are really great because they work with your school schedule and they offer flexible hours.

12. Use the gym. I know, I know- the most unphysical person telling you to actually work out. But, it's free and it's good for you. Take advantage of it!

13. Be aware that the parking ticket monster is real. Don't park in a 24 hour faculty spot (even though it's in your parking lot and what kind of professor needs a spot at 10 p.m.- but that's beside the point). Just be cautious of where you park your car!

14. Keep in touch with the friends you made from Freshman year! I have a few friends that I love hanging out with now because I kept in touch with them over the summer.

15. It still isn't easy leaving home when you go and visit. Leaving home from Christmas break was difficult. Good thing I'm going home to visit soon! Just know it's okay to miss your parents.

16. Make super awesome spring break plans! Laura and I are going to New York and Washington DC for our spring break! Go somewhere incredible because your college years are prime travel years!

17. Go ahead and begin thinking of your Junior year plans. Where you want to live, what classes you need to take, etc.

18. Meet with your advisor regularly to help stay on track! I know I constantly get confused, but my advisor helps me understand exactly where I need to be. It's usually suggested to schedule an appointment with your advisor before signing up for classes- make sure you do! It helps tremendously.

Now to reiterate some Freshman tips that still apply!

19. Make a to-do list of assignments! It feels great to check them off when you're done!

20. Making your bed makes you feel better, trust me!

I hope these tips come in handy! Sophomore year is so important, so make it count. Don't sweat the little stuff.