There are a lot of benefits that come with being a collegiate athlete, including developing lifelong skills and forming close bonds with teammates. However, it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to excel in the classroom and on the field (or court). College student-athletes often face schedules jam-packed with classes, practices, and games. That doesn’t count time spent on social obligations, either.
Taking on the dual role of student and athlete means embracing a pretty full plate. On one hand, your passion for your sport drives you to stay competitive, attend practices and training sessions, and perform your best during games. For many, athletic scholarships make excelling in sports even more crucial. However, the main purpose of college is to earn your degree. Academics can’t take a backseat, especially since you need to have strong grades to maintain your eligibility. Between traveling for games during the season and staying in shape during the off-season, finding time for coursework and studying is a lot to juggle. Add in the need for downtime to recharge, it’s even more important for student-athletes to manage their time wisely to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
The best advice for student-athletes is to find a sustainable balance between school, sports, and social life. Of course, that’s easier said than done. Fortunately, several strategies can help you succeed in all aspects of your college experience.
Tips for Balancing Athletics and Academics
Getting a better handle on sports and school responsibilities helps foster discipline, time management, and teamwork, which all apply far beyond college. Plus, managing your schedule will allow you to have a more fulfilling and well-rounded college experience.
Focus On Time Management
Time management is one of the most critical skills for student-athletes. Though it might seem basic, creating a weekly schedule, either using a planner or a scheduling app, is an easy way to stay organized. As you create your schedule, try to prioritize tasks by deadline and importance. Don’t forget to leave time to relax and recharge. While structure is absolutely helpful, it’s also important to stay flexible so you can adapt to unexpected opportunities.
Develop Good Study Habits
A big part of studying is finding the right space. A library, study lounge, or coffee shop are good options. No matter where you study, try to consistently return to the same location to stay focused and make the most of your time.
Use Campus Resources
A lot of colleges, including Villa, offer support resources like counseling and tutoring to all students. As a student-athlete, it’s perfectly normal to need a little extra help from time to time. These services are included in the cost of your tuition, so you should consider taking advantage of them to lighten your workload.
Build a Support Network
You already know that it takes a team to achieve victory in your sport. The same is true in other parts of life, too. It’s important to have a group of people you can count on for support. Coaches, professors, friends, and your teammates are valuable allies, especially when you’re dealing with a lot of stress or a busy schedule. Communicate openly about your needs and ask for accommodations when necessary. Remember, the people in your corner want you to succeed!
Become a Villa Viking
Villa Maria College is proud to support student-athletes in achieving their academic and athletic goals. With programs like basketball, cheer, flag football, and esports, we have a lot of exciting opportunities to explore in a nurturing, close-knit community. Our athletes not only excel in their chosen sports but also learn the necessary skills to do exceptional things after graduation. We’re currently recruiting and would love to hear from you! Contact us today to learn more about our athletic and academic programs.
