2 answers
Rylie
Student
Randolph, New Jersey
1
Question
Updated
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What is the best way to balance out Division I athletics with traditional college experiences??
I am thrilled to have committed as a Division I soccer player but also want to make sure I make friends and have experiences beyond the sport. Do you have any suggestions for how to best balance the responsibilities and parameters of a committed athlete with those of a typical teenager experiencing college life for the first time?
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2 answers
Cedric Suitt, MBA
Senior Business Manager
7
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Cedric’s Answer
As a Division-1 athlete, remember that your school chose you to be on their team. Most students apply to colleges themselves, but you were recruited. This means you should focus on why you're there. Keep your studies first. If you don't pass your classes, you can't play, and you won't have good chances after college. Your sport is why you're at the school, so it should be a top priority, right after or even alongside your education. When you're not in class or doing homework, practice your sport. If you don't, you might fall behind your teammates and competitors. With NIL deals and the transfer portal, you could lose your spot on the team and at the school. As a college athlete, you'll have many chances to make friends, especially with teammates. Keeping your priorities straight in college will help you later in life, opening more doors for success.
Ben Scheu
Athletic Trainer
15
Answers
Salt Lake City, Utah
Updated
Ben’s Answer
Congratulations! All that hard work, long hours, and the sacrifices you’ve put in thus far have led you to this incredible achievement — and you absolutely deserve it! Being able to compete at the Division I level is a huge honor and a reflection of your dedication, talent, and resilience across so many different aspects of life, not just within your sport.
I think it's really cool that you're seeking out a 'traditional college experience' on top of everything... that’s not an easy thing to do when you’re a student-athlete. It takes being intentional, and that sounds like is something you are willing to work for, which is AWESOME. A few small things can go a long way with setting yourself up for success outside of the teammates you will undoubtedly spend LOTS of time with... here are a few thoughts:
- Make the effort to meet people outside your team — introduce yourself to your dorm neighbors, sit with someone new in class, and say yes to random invites even if it’s out of your comfort zone.
- Remember that you don't have to be friends with everyone, but you should at least give everyone a chance! You may find that someone that doesn't 'look' like they would normally be your typical friend, could actually be the coolest person you meet!
- Go to parties, whether you drink or not — they’re a great way to connect with people socially and experience a big part of college culture.
- It sounds funny, but don’t always wear your team gear around campus. Give people the chance to get to know you before they know you’re an athlete.
- Don’t be afraid to ask upperclassmen (athletes and non-athletes) for advice — most people love sharing what they’ve learned about their school!
You’re already doing so much right — be proud of what you’ve earned and stay open to everything ahead. College is going to be an amazing ride for you!
I think it's really cool that you're seeking out a 'traditional college experience' on top of everything... that’s not an easy thing to do when you’re a student-athlete. It takes being intentional, and that sounds like is something you are willing to work for, which is AWESOME. A few small things can go a long way with setting yourself up for success outside of the teammates you will undoubtedly spend LOTS of time with... here are a few thoughts:
- Make the effort to meet people outside your team — introduce yourself to your dorm neighbors, sit with someone new in class, and say yes to random invites even if it’s out of your comfort zone.
- Remember that you don't have to be friends with everyone, but you should at least give everyone a chance! You may find that someone that doesn't 'look' like they would normally be your typical friend, could actually be the coolest person you meet!
- Go to parties, whether you drink or not — they’re a great way to connect with people socially and experience a big part of college culture.
- It sounds funny, but don’t always wear your team gear around campus. Give people the chance to get to know you before they know you’re an athlete.
- Don’t be afraid to ask upperclassmen (athletes and non-athletes) for advice — most people love sharing what they’ve learned about their school!
You’re already doing so much right — be proud of what you’ve earned and stay open to everything ahead. College is going to be an amazing ride for you!