Despite these common realities for sophomores, the horizon isn’t entirely bleak.  Most students develop a close affiliation with their major, with the other students in the department and often with faculty.  Nursing students, beginning sophomore year, form a strong bond with each other because they’re in many of the same classes and clinicals together. Likewise, majors which require labs, studio hours, and other common experiences often bring students together.

                At Bellarmine, the ARC and the Career Center make special efforts to direct and support sophomores.  Working in conjunction with some academic departments, Bellarmine staff advise sophomores to begin the process of career exploration and investigation of Study Abroad programs.  Sophomore year is also the time for students to work with their academic advisors to gain direction in developing the skills necessary to be successful in their majors.  At Bellarmine we promote a definition of advising wider and deeper than course selection.

                Finally, second year still allows students time to involve themselves in campus activities, to seek out leadership positions, to volunteer on campus and at non-profits.  All of these activities contribute to a high quality resume and the meaningful college experience that Bellarmine offers.