2 answers
SORAYA
Student
Crofton, Maryland
1
Question
Updated
238 views
How do you balance student athlete life?
I will be playing soccer and going into the pre-dental program and would like tips to be prepared on what to expect and how to balance it.
Login to comment
2 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1087
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I had a few hurdles, when I initially went to college and also pursued athletics. But several things I learned included the following:
To be a successful college athlete, you must be able to balance your commitment to your sport with excellent academic performance by managing your time effectively.
This includes becoming proficient at utilizing campus resources. Many athletic programs have all kinds of educational resources to help athletes. This includes athletic department advisors, who specialize in helping the athletes get into the right classes and balancing those classes with competition and practice schedules.
These advisors also assist with setting clear goals for academics. If the athletes need help, they normally are provided access to tutors and other academic support staff, to assist with classes. So definitely utilize all the academic resources the athletic department has for you
You must also be willing to cultivate your leadership and teamwork skills.
This means being able to communicate with coaches and professors, take care of your physical health through consistent training and recovery, and manage your personal brand and reputation.
And definitely, make sure that you understand and meet your institution's academic requirements to maintain your athletic eligibility. I knew athletes, who did not track their progress or grades, and ultimately became ineligible during their tenure at the college that I attended.
To be a successful college athlete, you must be able to balance your commitment to your sport with excellent academic performance by managing your time effectively.
This includes becoming proficient at utilizing campus resources. Many athletic programs have all kinds of educational resources to help athletes. This includes athletic department advisors, who specialize in helping the athletes get into the right classes and balancing those classes with competition and practice schedules.
These advisors also assist with setting clear goals for academics. If the athletes need help, they normally are provided access to tutors and other academic support staff, to assist with classes. So definitely utilize all the academic resources the athletic department has for you
You must also be willing to cultivate your leadership and teamwork skills.
This means being able to communicate with coaches and professors, take care of your physical health through consistent training and recovery, and manage your personal brand and reputation.
And definitely, make sure that you understand and meet your institution's academic requirements to maintain your athletic eligibility. I knew athletes, who did not track their progress or grades, and ultimately became ineligible during their tenure at the college that I attended.
Clare Adams
Consultant
5
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Clare’s Answer
In college, I was on the rowing team, studied International Relations and Spanish, and worked at the ITS Help Desk. I used a planner to keep track of my schedule and deadlines. You might prefer a digital calendar. Having one place for everything helped me see any conflicts or busy days. For example, if I had an assignment due Thursday and also practice and work, I would finish the assignment by Wednesday night. If a competition clashed with a test or work, I would talk to my professor or boss to adjust my schedule.
It's important to keep your professors, boss, coworkers, and coaches in the loop about your commitments. While some things can't change, early and clear communication can help find ways to adjust.
It's important to keep your professors, boss, coworkers, and coaches in the loop about your commitments. While some things can't change, early and clear communication can help find ways to adjust.