Sophomore is a term used in the United States to describe a student in the second year of study (generally referring to high school or university study).The word is also used for the second album or EP released by a musician or group, the second movie of a director, or the second season of a professional athlete.

Etymology

The etymology is from Greek, sophisma ‘clever device’ from sophizesthai ‘to devise, become wise’, and the original English spelling was "Sophumer".It was not until 1726 that the spelling was established in United States as "sophomore".

Education

High school

The 10th grade is usually the second year of a student's high school period and is referred to as sophomore year. High school sophomores are expected to begin preparing for the college application process, including reducing and focusing their extracurricular activities. Students at this level are also considered to be developing greater ability for abstract thinking.

College

In the U.S., colleges generally require students to declare an academic major by the end of their sophomore year. College sophomores are advised to begin thinking about career options and to get involved in volunteering or social organizations on or near campus.

Usage in other countries

In other countries, like the [Philippines), sophomore is also widely used specifically in high schools.

See also

• Sophomore's dream
• Sophomore slump
• Second season syndrome
• Second system effect

References

1. "Your Argument..is so sillie, as that not some exq[u]isite Sophister, but any punie Sophumer may at first sight discover the feebleness of it."
2. Sophomore Year: Time to Narrow Down Your Extracurricular Activities