Many high school students have a favorite year. Whether it was Freshman year when they got to see new people and gain new relationships, or Senior year when they can admire how far they’ve come and strive for a brighter future. Whatever it may be, I don’t think any come close to Sophomore year. 

In Freshman year, students first start to experience high school and gain perspective as to what the next three years will hold for them. They gain new friends, find new interests, and discover more about themselves. However, the year can get frustrating with the lack of class choices and the stress of new changes. 

Junior year is a new journey for many students, as they mature and grow into young adults. Junior year gives people more choices in the opportunities they pursue and is marked by important landmarks like the SAT and the ACT. These can be especially difficult for students who strive for excellence, and desire an academic future. 

Senior Year can be starkly contrasted with Junior year, in that many responsibilities and class periods can be freed up, and give students further time to prepare for their future, or relax and enjoy life. 

However, Sophomore has the best balance between academics and personal opportunities. Students can start challenging themselves with more advanced classes, or give themselves more time to live outside school. They can grasp their high school and future purposes with newfound maturity and responsibility. 

An important aspect to realize is that not every student is the same, especially in high school. For example, while we all share the same class options, not everyone has the same schedule. Each student is different and works through high school differently than any other.