Edward Lowery is currently a Director of Academics at Towson University after spending time at the University of South Carolina as an Athletic Academic Advisor. He majored in Sport Administration for his undergraduate degree at Temple University. At Temple, he began working in the student athlete academic offices as an intern, and ended up pursuing a career there, which launched him into his current career path. Read along to learn more about the importance of academics as a college athlete.

What services do you provide for your athletes?

Transition to the university, time management, study tips, class registration, degree completion plans, making sure they meet NCAA benchmarks each semester and year to be eligible to compete in their sport. Manage student athlete book distribution and distribute technology as well.

Related: Rate the University of South Carolina

Why is study hall mandatory for freshmen?

This is the biggest transition for student-athletes. For some of them it's their first time away from friends/family and the first real time on their own. [We] want to establish that support for them early and often so they hit the ground running academically, spiritually and emotionally.

Do you think study hall truly benefits athletes?

I do to a point…like I tell everyone in study hall to take advantage of the time that is set aside for them. It's a great way for them to learn time management skills and have that set time to get work done during their already busy day. That's why we go to more of an objective-based study hall, where students can leave once they complete that day's tasks instead of lingering around for 8 hours during the week.

Everyone has a different path to where they need to go, meaning some may have a more direct path while some may have detours to where they want to go during or after school. Also ask questions!

Edward Lowery

What other resources does your department provide? 

We help with finding subject based tutoring, academic coaching, class checking for freshmen and concerned students, cover letter/resume building, can refer students to our sport psychologists, travel letters for when students are away for competition.

Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits

What are the biggest do's and don't when it comes to tutoring? 

Just have the student do their own work, plain and simple. Use their own laptop, take their own exams/quizzes, etc. The tutor isn't there to teach the whole class and shouldn't, should be used as a reference and guide if the student needs/wants something clarified.

Any tips for figuring out how to balance school and sports?

Find what works best for you (studying, time management, distresses, etc.) because what may work for someone else may not work for you in the long run. Everyone has a different path to where they need to go, meaning some may have a more direct path while some may have detours to where they want to go during or after school. Also ask questions!

Any advice for athletes who have coaches that prioritize their athletics over academics?

In my experience, there may come a time where a student may have to choose between one or the other. I never like to see a student in that situation, but it happens. You as a student must make that decision that best supports the final goal. And it may lead you to a new program with a more supportive coach somewhere else.

What's something that is overlooked by athletes but is actually important?

COVID. We are starting to come out of it, but the anxiety of being in a 50–200-person lecture is real and difficult to navigate when there are no other options. Online classes are also a lot of work for you. Please take care of your mental health as well, nothing to look past with the expectations of being a student-athlete.”

What's your most important advice for incoming/current freshmen? 

Ask for help when you need it. There are resources in departments or on campus that can help you out in all different types of situations. Please do not be afraid to ask for that help. We are all human and need help from time to time–it's normal and alright! It's a lot to be a student-athlete and you shouldn't have to do it all on your own.

Have an idea for a story or a question you need answered? Want to set up an interview with us? Email us at [email protected]

* Originally published on September 20, 2022, by Sammie Grant