ASPIRE
Back to Home
Back to Students and Families


 


 

I Wish I'd Known…for Athletes

Before reviewing these checklists here are some points student-athletes reported wishing they had known before starting college as freshmen:
  • The competition, academically and athletically, was going to be tough.
  • How to handle my time better.
  • Some teachers would not be concerned about me personally.
  • Some of my teachers would be graduate students.
  • College teachers are not trained the same as high school teachers. Consequently, some of them know the stuff they teach, but they don’t know how to teach it very well.
  • For some classes, no one gave me individual attention unless I asked for it.
  • I could choose a "quiet" dorm and avoid the late night parties.
  • Some of my classes have 200 or more students.
  • I get two tests in the semester to establish my grade.
  • The odds of making a living in professional athletics are poor. Getting an education has to come first.
  • It takes many athletes five years to graduate.
  • I must get to know about many special services such as financial aid, counseling, career planning, placement, and the learning resources center.
  • If I’m not careful, I could really believe some of the kids who think I’m big time because I’m a jock.
  • What to do if my roommate and I are not compatible?