As a college athlete, the decision to choose a school can be a daunting one. While scholarships are often a significant factor in the decision-making process, there are many other important factors to consider when choosing a school. Scholarships aside, here are just five of many things to take into consideration when you're browsing through universities on your recruiting journey:
1. Location
The location of a school can play a significant role in your overall college experience. Consider factors such as the climate, proximity to family, and accessibility to local attractions when choosing a school. Do you love the nightlife or do you need consistent sleep undisturbed by traffic noise? Do you prefer the city or the country? Are you more comfortable in a hot or cold climate? If you don't have a car, what is public transit like or is everything you need within walking distance? These are all important factors to consider when accounting for the location of your dream school.
2. Academic Programs
As a college athlete, it's important to choose a school with academic programs that align with your interests and goals. Look for schools with strong programs in your desired field of study to ensure that you receive a quality education. You also want to look into the admissions requirements and make sure you can clear that bar. And look at all the available majors at any given school–if your first choice falls through for whatever reason, you want to have a backup plan.
3. Team Culture
Remember, your team will be your second family for the next four-plus years and the culture of a team can play a significant role in your overall athletic experience…for better or worse. Consider factors such as team dynamics, communication style, coaching philosophy, and team values when choosing a school.
Related: Pro Hockey Player Rebecca Russo Talks Team Dynamics
4. Facilities
The quality of athletic facilities can have a significant impact on your training and performance as an athlete. Look for schools with well-maintained facilities that meet the needs of your sport, but be realistic. For example, there's nothing wrong with competing below the Power Five level, but don't expect the same facilities at a mid-major program.
5. Social Scene
Your social life is an important part of the college experience. Consider factors such as campus culture, extracurricular activities, and the student body when choosing a school. Or, if you need a lower-key environment so you can focus on your sport and your studies, consider looking for a more rural campus or one that has lots of academic clubs and networking opportunities for after graduation. And if having an extravagant social life isn't your thing, look for campuses with amenities to support your interests–maybe that's a big library, on campus volunteer opportunities, or plenty of nearby coffee shops to fuel your late night study sessions.
Related: Expand Your Roster: 5 Ways To Make Friends Outside of Sports
While scholarships are often a significant factor in the decision-making process, it's important to consider all aspects of a school before making a final decision. By looking at your choices holistically, you can ensure that you choose a school that meets all of your needs as a college athlete–and that's a big win before you even wear your college uniform!
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* Originally published on May 26, 2023, by Amanda Fassold
