3 answers
Christian
Student
Middletown, New York
1
Question
Updated
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How Please sometimes I feel like leaving the academic world and face my dreams directly, I feel like I have wasted my finances on academics instead of investing that in Tennis career from the beginning. Dropping out comes to mind most times and at this point I am in my penultimate year what keeps me going is not love for what I am doing anymore. #spring25?
I just need a clarifying answer
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3 answers
Yuliya Witt, CPA, MST
Tax Manager
9
Answers
Plano, Texas
Updated
Yuliya’s Answer
I suggest finishing your degree first, then looking for jobs in both your field and tennis. This way, you can decide what path to take next. Tennis coaches, especially those who work with high-level players, are in high demand and hard to find. Being a good coach requires talent, especially when working with young players. You need to explain complex things in a simple way and connect with kids, which takes patience. Coaching is a job that can't be replaced by technology, even though some try to coach online. In-person coaching is much more effective, especially for kids.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
1028
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Christian, thank you for sharing something so personal—what you're experiencing is deeply valid and not uncommon, especially for individuals with passion and drive beyond the traditional academic path. Feeling conflicted between pursuing your dreams and continuing with your academic journey can be emotionally taxing, particularly when you're in your penultimate year and questioning the value of your investment. But you are not alone in this, and your clarity will come from aligning your next steps with both your long-term vision and present reality.
First and foremost, it's important to acknowledge that education is never truly wasted—even if your heart has shifted toward tennis or another passion. The discipline, critical thinking, and perseverance you've developed through academia will continue to serve you in any field, especially in the high-pressure world of professional sports. But it's also clear you're feeling a deep pull toward something that speaks more authentically to who you are. That calling shouldn't be ignored. The regret you're expressing about not investing in tennis from the beginning is powerful, and it’s pointing you toward something meaningful.
That said, dropping out so close to the finish line may not be your only—or even best—option. Completing your degree could still be a strategic move, especially if you can do so while beginning to build momentum in your tennis career. Many top athletes have degrees in areas unrelated to their sport, and it provides a sense of security and adaptability that is invaluable in an unpredictable world. Think of finishing your degree as not giving in to academia, but as a way of banking a credential while you transition toward your dream.
Now, if tennis is where your heart is, start investing in it now. Begin training seriously, enter competitions, build a network within the tennis community, and document your journey. You might explore coaching certifications (such as those through the United States Professional Tennis Association – USPTA: https://www.uspta.com, apply for sponsorships or training programs, or even look into playing in semi-pro circuits or leagues if you're eligible. Use platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram to build a personal brand around your tennis ambitions. Start small, but start deliberately.
Also, consider hybrid solutions. Could you shift to part-time studies or explore an academic program that aligns more closely with sports management, physical therapy, or athletic performance? Some universities are flexible, especially when students are clear about their goals.
In the end, you deserve a life driven by passion—not just obligation. But remember, walking away and walking toward something meaningful are two very different things. One is a reaction to pain, the other is an act of courage and strategy. You're not stuck—you’re standing at a decision point. Finish what you're close to completing if it won't deeply compromise your spirit or finances, but more importantly, start moving—boldly and intentionally—toward the dream that's been waiting for you.
First and foremost, it's important to acknowledge that education is never truly wasted—even if your heart has shifted toward tennis or another passion. The discipline, critical thinking, and perseverance you've developed through academia will continue to serve you in any field, especially in the high-pressure world of professional sports. But it's also clear you're feeling a deep pull toward something that speaks more authentically to who you are. That calling shouldn't be ignored. The regret you're expressing about not investing in tennis from the beginning is powerful, and it’s pointing you toward something meaningful.
That said, dropping out so close to the finish line may not be your only—or even best—option. Completing your degree could still be a strategic move, especially if you can do so while beginning to build momentum in your tennis career. Many top athletes have degrees in areas unrelated to their sport, and it provides a sense of security and adaptability that is invaluable in an unpredictable world. Think of finishing your degree as not giving in to academia, but as a way of banking a credential while you transition toward your dream.
Now, if tennis is where your heart is, start investing in it now. Begin training seriously, enter competitions, build a network within the tennis community, and document your journey. You might explore coaching certifications (such as those through the United States Professional Tennis Association – USPTA: https://www.uspta.com, apply for sponsorships or training programs, or even look into playing in semi-pro circuits or leagues if you're eligible. Use platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram to build a personal brand around your tennis ambitions. Start small, but start deliberately.
Also, consider hybrid solutions. Could you shift to part-time studies or explore an academic program that aligns more closely with sports management, physical therapy, or athletic performance? Some universities are flexible, especially when students are clear about their goals.
In the end, you deserve a life driven by passion—not just obligation. But remember, walking away and walking toward something meaningful are two very different things. One is a reaction to pain, the other is an act of courage and strategy. You're not stuck—you’re standing at a decision point. Finish what you're close to completing if it won't deeply compromise your spirit or finances, but more importantly, start moving—boldly and intentionally—toward the dream that's been waiting for you.
Jerry Bires
career coach
63
Answers
Carbondale, Illinois
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
Christian,
Truly, you are experiencing what I and about 50 million others on planet Earth also have gone through at your age in their lives. Welcome, (perhaps almost anyway), to adulthood, when some? many? dreams are put on hold, or put away, because of one overriding criteria: making enough money on which to live. In your specific case, assess how good of a tennis player you truly are, because if you are not good to great at the game how are you going to pay your bills?
Do not drop out of academia. We're living in rapidly changing times. Our weather, technology and our ability to work globally are in flux and evolving. E.g., who knows where artificial intelligence is headed and how will it affect your future work opportunities? One thing will remain consistent and valuable. Your ability to communicate effectively. And what can assist you in communicating more easily and therefore become even more employable? Language. Make an effort to learn to speak, write and read a second language. Or two. Your worth will increase dramatically. Get a college degree or higher in courses to which your interests gravitate.
Conduct this Google search: what professions will be in demand in ten years
Then substitute another/related job title or profession to see if that provides a different or expanded list. The results, because of our changing world, may or may not be entirely on target but you'll get an idea. AND you may find out that a certain country may be where that opportunity is most likely to be...hence, my advice about learning multiple languages.
At 74, I'm a realist. Look me up on LinkedIn and see how roundabout my career went...When I was 33, I remember standing on a roof in Oakland, California, as I worked for my friend's roofing company for a few weeks wondering "What now? Am I a roofer?
Good fortune to you, young man.
Truly, you are experiencing what I and about 50 million others on planet Earth also have gone through at your age in their lives. Welcome, (perhaps almost anyway), to adulthood, when some? many? dreams are put on hold, or put away, because of one overriding criteria: making enough money on which to live. In your specific case, assess how good of a tennis player you truly are, because if you are not good to great at the game how are you going to pay your bills?
Do not drop out of academia. We're living in rapidly changing times. Our weather, technology and our ability to work globally are in flux and evolving. E.g., who knows where artificial intelligence is headed and how will it affect your future work opportunities? One thing will remain consistent and valuable. Your ability to communicate effectively. And what can assist you in communicating more easily and therefore become even more employable? Language. Make an effort to learn to speak, write and read a second language. Or two. Your worth will increase dramatically. Get a college degree or higher in courses to which your interests gravitate.
Conduct this Google search: what professions will be in demand in ten years
Then substitute another/related job title or profession to see if that provides a different or expanded list. The results, because of our changing world, may or may not be entirely on target but you'll get an idea. AND you may find out that a certain country may be where that opportunity is most likely to be...hence, my advice about learning multiple languages.
At 74, I'm a realist. Look me up on LinkedIn and see how roundabout my career went...When I was 33, I remember standing on a roof in Oakland, California, as I worked for my friend's roofing company for a few weeks wondering "What now? Am I a roofer?
Good fortune to you, young man.