Learn how you can optimize your sophomore year. Explore opportunities, build connections, strengthen your goals, and continue building momentum toward graduation through experiences designed specifically for second-year Bearkats.
YOUR NEXT CHAPTER STARTS HERE
• Schedule an appointment to get advised before spring registration opens or stop by the SAM Center in CHSS 170 for Wednesday Drop-In Advising, to review your degree progress with your academic advisor.*
• Review your course sequencing, GPA requirements, and major milestones before registration each semester to stay on track for graduation.
• Use the official SHSU Academic Calendar every semester to remain aware of registration, payment, financial aid, scholarship, graduation, and academic deadlines.
• Check and resolve any holds on your SHSU account before your designated open registration date.
• Register for Spring 2027 classes using the available how-to guides to navigate unfamiliar registration requirements or error messages.
• Meet with a Learning Coach at least once during your junior year to strengthen you time management, student habits, and strategies for balancing coursework with other responsibilities.*
• Make an appointment for tutoring or writing support with the Academic Success Center at least once this academic year before a major exam, research paper, presentation, or challenging assignment.*
• Meet with the Office of Undergraduate Research at least once during your sophomore year to to learn about research opportunities connected to your major or interests.
• Book a study room in the Newton Gresham Library or Lowman Student Center at least once each semester.
• Learn what your academic college or department offers beyond the classroom, including programs, events, student groups, and experiences connected to your major.
• Attend the Study Abroad Fair on September 16, 2026, from 11:00-1:00 PM in LSC 230 to explore upcoming study abroad opportunities, funding options, and degree plan timing.
• Explore the Honors College and consider applying for spring admission by the November 1, 2026, priority scholarship deadline or the December 1, 2026, final deadline.
• Connect with at least one faculty member in your major or field for mentorship, academic guidance, or a future recommendation letter.
• Enroll in an Academic Community Engagement (ACE) course to gain real-world experience, build career-ready skills, and make a positive impact in the community.
• Register and attend the 20th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium held in April 2027.*
*Denotes action is eligible towards Ultimate Bearkat status
• Meet with the Career Success Center at least once every semester to review your resume, update your LinkedIn profile, explore career goals, or learn about internships, employment, or graduate school options.*
• Explore SHSU’s Workforce Ready Kats (WRK) program to gain paid experience, build career-ready skills, and learn how community-based work can connect to your major or career interests.
• Apply for at least one on-campus student assistant position to gain work experience during your sophomore year while staying engaged in the Bearkat community.
• Attend at least one Career and Internship Fair to explore career paths, connect with employers, and learn how to prepare for future internship opportunities.*
• Research the labor market trends for a career field that interests you at least once a year to learn more about salary expectations, job growth, and the skills employers are looking for.
• Schedule a mock interview with a Career Success Coach at least once before junior year to strengthen your interviewing skills for internships, student leadership roles, and future job opportunities.*
• Complete the Critical Thinking and Leadership competencies in the Career Success Center’s Blackboard Learning Lounge.
• Talk with at least one faculty member about professional organizations that offer student memberships, networking opportunities, scholarships, or career resources, and consider becoming a member.*
• Check out the business attire available at Tripod’s Thrift Store at least once before junior year.
• Apply for at least three internships or other career-related experiences this year that align with your major or career interests.
*Denotes action is eligible towards Ultimate Bearkat status
• Complete your 2027-2028 FAFSA as soon as possible after October 1, 2026, for priority consideration (priority deadline is January 15, 2027).*
• Complete your Scholarships4Kats Application by the November 1, 2026, priority deadline for the 2027-2028 academic year.*
• Meet with Student Money Management at least once to create or update a personal budget for rent, bills, groceries, and other sophomore-year expenses.*
• Learn about emergency resources and support services, including the Bearkat Assistance Program, in case unexpected financial or personal challenges arise.
• Familiarize yourself with the SHSU Food Pantry and the resources available to help you stay healthy and focused.
• Make an appointment with the Student Health Center at least once for preventive care, illness treatment, routine services, and resources that support your overall wellbeing.
• Participate in at least three Campus Recreation activities during your sophomore year, such as intramural sports, informal recreation, club sports, fitness classes, esports, outdoor recreation, and aquatics.*
• Review the services offered by Student Legal & Mediation Services during your sophomore year to learn where to get help with apartment leases, contracts, conflicts, and other legal concerns.*
• Use the Counseling Center or TimelyCare app for mental health support, personal growth, and strategies to help you navigate the challenges of sophomore year.
• Learn how to access CARE Network support and understand when to seek help for yourself or a friend.
• Attend at least one Student Wellness presentation, program, or event to support your wellbeing and success.*
• Visit the First-Generation Center at least once during your sophomore year to strengthen your support network, explore leadership and involvement opportunities, and connect with resources that can help you stay on track toward graduation.*
*Denotes action is eligible towards Ultimate Bearkat status
• Participate in at least one Welcome Week event during both the fall and spring semesters.*
• Attend at least one Sophomore September event to reconnect with campus resources, strengthen your involvement, and support your continued success.
• Enjoy a live performance at Sammypalooza on September 3, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Johnson Coliseum.*
• Join the Back to Bowers BLOWOUT on September 12, 2026, to celebrate the return to Bowers Stadium.*
• Experience Homecoming Week (September 14–19, 2026) by attending at least one event, participating with your student organization, and making new Bearkat memories.*
• Register by October 1, 2026, for Bearkat Family Weekend (November 13-14, 2026) and get ready for a weekend packed with SHSU traditions, campus excitement, and Bearkat pride.
• Attend at least three Sam Houston Athletics games during your sophomore year to cheer on the Bearkats and make game days part of your SHSU experience.*
• Participate in the Tree of Light Ceremony on November 17, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Parker Plaza.
• Experience March 2 the Grave on March 2, 2027, by joining the Bearkat community in honoring Sam Houston’s legacy and taking part in SHSU’s oldest tradition.*
• Attend Sophomore Halfway to Graduation Celebration on March 3, 2027, from 12:00-2:00 PM in the LSC Orange Ballroom.
• Show your SHSU pride by wearing orange for at least four Bearkat Spirit Fridays during your sophomore year.
• Submit at least one nomination for the 33rd annual Sammy’s and attend the ceremony to celebrate outstanding students and organizations shaping the Bearkat experience.*
*Denotes action is eligible towards Ultimate Bearkat status
• Grow from member to leader in your student organization by taking on a project, coordinating a service opportunity, or helping plan an event, then record your progress in BearkatHQ.*
• Participate in at least one Conflict Resolution Month event in October to strengthen communication and self-advocacy skills.*
• Help lead change through the Student Government Association by sharing your perspective, supporting campus initiatives, and representing your peers.*
• Participate in at least one event during Leadership Week (October 5–9, 2026) to strengthen your leadership skills and campus involvement.*
• Live out SHSU’s motto, “The Measure of a Life is its Service,” by completing at least 20 volunteer hours each semester with local nonprofits in the Huntsville and Walker County community and logging your time in BearkatHQ.*
• Celebrate your transfer journey by participating in at least one event during National Transfer Student Week (October 19–23, 2026), if applicable.
• Experience the arts at SHSU by attending at least one performance, exhibition, or event hosted by the College of Arts & Media.*
• Attend CAB Takeover in the Lowman Student Center on October 29, 2026, from 7:00-10:00 PM.
• Join or renew your membership with The Student Network (formerly the Student Alumni Association) for $25 a year to build alumni connections, access scholarship opportunities, participate in professional development, campus traditions, and enjoy other member benefits.
• Participate in at least one event during National First-Generation Week, November 9-13, 2026.
• Attend at least one event during Veterans Week, November 9-13, 2026.
• Join your fellow Bearkats for a day of service by registering and volunteering at Bearkat All Paws In, scheduled for April 2027.*
• Log your experiences in BearkatHQ at least twice a semester to track your progress towards earning Ultimate Bearkat status and receiving a medallion to wear at graduation.
*Denotes action is eligible towards Ultimate Bearkat status
