Preparing for College
The Sophomore Student
What are the biggest adjustments sophomore students will be facing?
- Tending to feel removed from campus life and may fall into the sophomore slump
- The “sophomore slump” can be defined as doubting lifestyle choices, dissatisfaction in relationships, uncertainty regarding the future, lacking motivation and increased apathy
- Freedman in 1956 determined that “sophomores seemed to be the least satisfied of all students.”
- Exploring and choosing a major/career is a dilemma, which can be influenced by parent approval/disapproval or personal interest
- A rising need for students to take ownership of their education and career path.
- Depending on ability to develop emotional independence and autonomy, the student may allow parent approval/disapproval to affect the decision to choose a particular major or career path.
- Establishing involvement in organizations and activities to develop leadership skills and values.
- May allow peer group to define who they are as individuals.
- May be questioning their identity, sexual orientation, relationships with parents, relationships with girlfriends or boyfriends or lack of intimate relationships.
- At the end of the sophomore year students should have narrowed in on a major.
Helping your Central sophomore as they transition through this period -
- Try your best to be unconditionally supportive of their ideas and decisions about a major but don't be afraid to offer suggestions
- Make sure they know what they are experiencing is normal
- Be aware of the resources on campus for your son or daughter, such as the Career Center , Counseling Center , Office of Intercultural Life, Office of Residential Learning, Health Service, Student Activities Center , etc.
