The first legit year of high school. This is the year when you start to have a more authentic high school experience unlike
freshman year. Most people are turning 16, you can get your license, get a job, and have a lot more
independence overall. Classes are harder than the year before, more is expected of you. You kind of have to have some idea of what college you want to go to so you can a head start on requirements etc. despite all the hype of not being a freshman anymore, you're still not really an "upperclassmen" until junior year.
unfortunately.
Freshman: "Eh, I hate being a freshman, it's boring and
basically like 8th grade."
Sophomore: "It'll get better. Next year you can get your
drivers license and stuff. sophomore year is
where it's at."