Why do they say sophomore year is the hardest?

I keep hearing that sophomore year is the hardest year of high school. For those who've been through it, why is that the case? Is it the classes, the social scene, or starting to think about college? I wanna know what I'm up against!

Sophomore year can be a bit of a roller coaster for many students, and there are a few reasons for that. First, the coursework typically becomes more challenging as you move into higher-level classes. Also, many students start taking honors or AP courses, which come with a heavier workload and higher expectations. But it's not just about academics! Sophomore year is a time when many students begin to feel pressure about their future—including college plans—and start working on extracurricular activities to build their resumes.

From a social standpoint, it's common for friendships and social groups to go through changes as everyone is growing and figuring themselves out. And yes, the thought of college can start to loom over you, contributing to stress levels.

To make your sophomore year more manageable, it's helpful to stay organized, communicate with your teachers, and find a balance between schoolwork and downtime. Remember, everyone's experience is different, and you might find sophomore year to be enjoyable and full of growth opportunities!