We are always on the lookout for positive stories about the US college sports experience. Today, an NCAA Division I baseball player shares the three main benefits he drew from his college years!
Throughout my years as an athlete, I have had many experiences that had a positive impact on my life.
In my own case, sport is what has given me the most in life. Sport helped me build my character and my personality, and it taught me discipline.
Thanks to sport, I have long-time friends today: former teammates, but also my coaches. Growing up as an athlete helped open the way to a successful future. I was an NCAA Division I baseball player and a college graduate. The benefits of being an athlete are endless.
Here are my three main benefits, to help you define and strengthen your commitment to your sport:
Relationships
When you go to college as a student-athlete, you know you will be part of a team. You will be surrounded by people with very similar tastes and expectations, which will bring you closer together anyway.
There is no better way to build close relationships with other people than being part of a team, working together and striving toward the same goal.
The relationships you build on a team can last a lifetime. They will certainly improve your college experience and have a positive impact on your personal life after college.
Health
Being a college athlete will require you to stay healthy. Student-athletes are highly motivated and goal-oriented, so it is safe to say they have worked extremely hard to become college athletes.
Training and practice are part of your life as an athlete, which will keep you fit and feeling good.
You will also avoid gaining weight, something that can happen in your first year of college. The lifestyle you develop as an athlete can carry over into your professional life: taking time to train and eat well, because you have adopted that mindset and built the routine of a seasoned athlete.
Getting a job
Many employers look for former athletes. Seriously!
They understand that the lessons learned over years as an athlete make for a quality employee. Successful athletes have excellent time-management skills, a competitive mindset, leadership skills, the right attitude and the ability to communicate effectively within a team.
Many employers value this profile: don't miss out on this opportunity!
To go further: why study and play sport in the USA.
