1. You already know where everything is.
This is really key to everything. When I first got to my school last year, I couldn't even find a bathroom. Now I know exactly where each bathroom is and which ones have the best hand dryers. I know where the hot spots on campus are and I know exactly where the best vending machines are. It's crazy how quickly you can learn about the campus in such little time, but once you finish the first year, things will come more quickly.
2. You are no longer the fresh meat.
Sorry freshmen, but no one likes to be in your shoes. It's difficult being on such a large campus and not knowing many of the faces. Now that I've been here long enough, I literally know everyone. It's pretty cool to be so close to so many people. Another thing is that everyone has already gotten past the awkward stage so there are no boundaries anymore. You legit can walk outside and find someone within 10 inches that you know. It's awesome.
3. You Pick Your Own Roomies.
Well, this one is pretty straight forward. Not everyone is blessed with a good roommate their first time around, and I know mine was pretty decent. Yet, like I previously mentioned, once you've gotten to know everyone, you can pick out the people you choose to room with instead of doing a random search. Also, having the choice to pick your roommates saves you a lot of time and stress. This year for sure has proved to already be much better than my first and 90 percent of the reason is because my roommates are actually people I love.
4. Cars, Cars, Cars!
At my college, we cannot have cars our first year. Luckily, we can have them our second because having a car is the best thing ever. You can go anywhere at any time and do whatever you want. Want to go to the mall but the shuttle doesn't run on Sundays? Take your car. Want to go to the new Thai place four miles from campus? Drive straight there! Even if it's 2 am you can hit up the best spots in town. Plus, your parents aren't around to control your car.
5. School is Just Better
After the first year, college just seems to click for you. I don't know why this happens or how, but since I have moved up and became a sophomore, college has really opened my eyes. I'm much more confident and free, and for some reason I actually have my shit together. It's kind of crazy what a year can do and it's interesting to see yourself grow. Therefore, being a second year student is much better than just moving in.