Welcome, High School Sophomore! As you may already know, you are in what many consider the most important year in high school; this is the year colleges look at very closely to determine what kind of student you are shaping up to be. The pressure is on, especially this year and next, to do well in school and on standardized tests like FCAT, next year's PSAT, and the SAT. If you have taken the SAT before, keep in mind that it is changing this year. You are one of the first Classes to take the New SAT! But remember, this year isn't only about academics. You should be having fun, too! And extra-curricular activities, including sports, volunteering, journalism (yearbook/newspaper), and clubs are a great way to meet new people and learn teamwork and responsibility at the same time.

This is the time when you should begin (or continue) participating in volunteer opportunities and other quality extra-curricular activities. Choose wisely; colleges will look at your extra-curriculars to help determine the kind of person you are. Another opportunity you have this year is participating in dual enrollment courses. Dual Enrollment allows you to begin taking college courses while you are still a high school student, earning both college and high school credits. Check out our dual enrollment and early admission pages for academic requirements and to learn more about your options for acceleration.

If you are not sure where to begin, here's a calendar for each season of your Sophomore year:

FALL

• Make sure you are enrolled in challenging classes, and in any prerequisite courses you may need for future classes you plan to take. If you are eligible, take Honors or Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
• Visit college fairs in the area.
• Pick one or two extra-curricular activities in which to get involved. This is the year you may get nominated for National Honor Society, so make sure your teachers get to know you and what a great student you are!

SPRING

• Sign up for college preperatory courses. Consider AP courses.
• Look for a great summer opportunity, like a job, internship, or volunteer position. Try to find one that relates to your academic or career interests.
• Look online for summer school courses offered by colleges. Many of them award college credit, but check with your guidance counselor before finalizing any plans.
• If you are enrolled in any AP courses, study for your May exams.
• Visit college fairs in the area.

SUMMER

• Start a summer reading list. If you didn't get one, ask your teachers to recommend books before your Sophomore year is over. Those taking AP English in their Junior year will most likely have a challenging reading list to complete over the summer. Read the books so you can make a good impression in the Fall.
• Make plans to visit college campuses to get a feel for your options. College visits provide great opportunities for family vacations, and are incredibly helpful in choosing a college you'll be comfortable at!

Sophomore Checklist

• Plan your schedule with your counselor. Take honors courses if you are recommended for them. If applicable, enroll in your second year academy class(es).
• Do some exploring to find out what high school courses you need to reach your career goals. Use Bridges or Choices, or check out our list of career web sites.
• Do you need to get more involved with your school or community? Take another look at extracurricular involvement.
• Take your FCAT and PSAT tests seriously.
• Take a College Placement Test (CPT) at your local community college to be eligible for dual enrollment (if you have not successfully completed the SAT).
• Explore summer employment, internship opportunities, and summer programs.
• Contact your Career Specialist or Guidance Counselor at school about exciting Job Shadowing opportunities.
• Take (or retake) your career survey. Explore jobs with your career interest. Start to interview people employed in the areas that interest you.