Colleges and universities offer a variety of academic, athletic, and social pursuits for students to participate in throughout their time on campus. One of the most popular extracurricular activities is college athletics, and you may have heard the term ‘student-athlete’ thrown around. But how do we define the term “student-athlete?” Essentially, a student-athlete is a student of a university or college who also participates in an organized and competitive intercollegiate athletic program offered by the school.
Student Athlete’s responsibilities
A student-athlete typically has less free time than non-athletes in between classes, practices, and athletic competitions. In addition to attending classes, studying, and taking exams, student-athletes have responsibilities to their team that can include attending practice (typically 20 hours per week), maintaining a minimum grade point average (GPA) in order to remain eligible, practicing and training when classes are not in session. Being a student-athlete also means you get to put your College’s name on your back and represent it by doing what you love.
Student-athlete scholarships
As a student-athlete, you can receive athletic scholarships from your college or university to help pay for your expenses, including tuition, books, fees, room, and board, and possibly even living costs. The athletic scholarship can vary from 1 to 100% of the school’s total costs and is determined based on the student-athlete’s athletic abilities.
It is worth mentioning, that receiving an athletic scholarship is not required in order to be called a student-athlete. In addition to athletic scholarships, there are other ways to receive financial aid based on academics, financial need, being an international student, or a combination.
Do I have what it takes to be a ‘student athlete’?
You do not have to play at the top of your sport to be a student-athlete. There are many different levels and divisions, so there is a spot for everybody. As long as you love the sport you play, like to work hard, and want to improve. As a student-athlete, you will have busy schedules with many early wake-ups, however, you will lead an extraordinary life. Being a student-athlete means you get to meet other athletes that are gifted, driven, dedicated, and so much more. You get to create bonds and friendships with people that all start because you share a passion for the same thing as them: being an athlete.
If you think you have what it takes to be a student-athlete – get in touch with us today for your free assessment.
