Freshman year is filled with awkward encounters, homesickness, and tough classes. What most freshmen don't understand is that everyone is in the same boat. It's everyone's first time away from home and there is a new and weird sense of freedom. The first few weeks you walk around trying to act cool but inside you feel like a glorified chicken with their head cut off. As the seasons change and you don't have to look at your schedule to see where your next class is, you slowly gain a better grasp of what college is about. You still refer to people as "orientation group friends" and eat in the same dining hall because you're afraid to venture out.

Now imagine a world where you know your way around campus, have real friends, and know the "cool" study spots. That is sophomore year my friends. A time of maturity but also a time to look back on the awkwardness of the past year and share a giggle with your newfound besties.

Here are 8 reasons that sophomore year is the best:

1. You can blame things on freshmen.

As a sophomore, you are no longer the lowest on the totem pole. What do you do with your new found "maturity"? You blame things on the youngins of course.

2. You have real friends.

It may have taken you the entirety of freshman year, but you've found good friends that know you best.

3. You get to pick your roommate.

The days of awkward random roommates are over. Now you and your roomie are free to match your bedspreads and borrow each others' clothes.

4. You're more involved on campus.

You've probably discovered your major and activities that you enjoy and may even have a cool part time job.

5. You know how to navigate the social scene.

This one is huge, freshman year was socially awkward, but trust me, sophomores know how to have fun.

6. You have favorite spots around the city.

You have come to know and love the city your school is in and you and your friends have favorite restaurants, stores, and cafes that you venture to often.

7. There are more opportunities for you.

You have formed relationships with professors and have a confidence that was missing most of freshman year.

8. You're less homesick.

You know what its like to be away from home and have friends to support you when you're missing your parents. Your calendar is full and you have less time to feel homesick.