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1. Financial
Student-athletes often times receive different types of financial assistance from colleges. This includes: academic scholarships, athletic scholarships, grants, aids, and work study. Having athletic talent is important but having character and being an overall good student will give you an opportunity to be awarded significant amounts of money to lower the cost of your education.
2. Social
Many first year student-athletes believe the transition from high school to college is much easier their freshman year because their playing a sport. Often times many student-athletes are able to move into the dorms and register for classes earlier than non student-athletes, even receiving their books earlier as well. Many coaches have the incoming freshmen room with other incoming players or current players on the team. Having that social base “the team” already set in place, during the beginning of your freshman year takes a lot of stress away from student-athletes, which most non-student athletes face. At times it’s as simple as having a number of people to eat lunch with during the first couple weeks of school to having a life long bond with a certain few. Among the other perks, usually student-athletes have a higher social status during their college years.
3. Physical
As a requirement of any institution you may choose to play for you should stay in shape and continue to improve on your athleticism while on the team. As a student-athlete you should provide your body with the proper nutrition needed for your peak performance. A good coach and staff will insist on a proper nutrition plan and exercise plan that is best for you. The combination of exercise, a proper nutrition plan and rest will allow you to have more energy, perform to your fullest and is a recipe for success.
4. Emotional
Having a supportive coaching staff and team is extremely important. As we have all seen problems do arise on college campuses involving student-athletes. And these cases are often more televised than other student crimes. Having a team that is looking out for you is a nice advantage of college athletics. You’re not just a number on campus!
5. Educational
Student-athletes are held accountable to their teammates and coach for their academic performance. They have more “rules and regulations” than a regular student on campus. Many programs have mandatory study tables (team study halls) along with mid-term progress reports. There are numerous institutions that have “Life Skills” training or a “College Survival Courses” for their student-athletes. This helps them during the transition from high school to college life.
6. Professional
The working world recognizes the competitive qualities fostered in student-athletes as characteristic for business success. Team orientated individuals with solid time management, discipline and communication skills are in demand. Active athletic alumni can prove to be a great networking tool for recent college graduates.
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