Balancing School and Athletics as a Student

Playing sports in high school and college are related to long-term professional success; 94% of women in C-level positions played sports when they were younger! But why are student-athletes better equipped for the emotional and practical demands of the real world? Student-athletes have already spent years balancing sports schedules, academics, social life, and pressure. So how do successful student-athletes do it and what can we learn from them?

Create a Schedule and Stick to It

One of the most powerful tools at your disposal is a well-structured schedule. Crafting a daily and weekly plan is essential for managing your time efficiently. Start by mapping out all of your commitments:

– Practice Sessions and Games: Allocate blocks of time for each practice and game. Make sure you account for travel time if necessary.

– Classes: Mark down your class times and any related activities like study groups or lab sessions.

– Homework and Study Time: Set aside specific times for homework and exam preparation. Try to be consistent with these times each week

– Socializing and Relaxation: Don’t forget to schedule downtime. Balance is key, and time for relaxation is crucial for avoiding burnout.

Using a planner, calendar app, or digital scheduling tool can help you visualize your week and stay on track. If you like the “old school” pencil and paper, a giant wall or desk calendar is highly suggested to visualize everything in one place! Be sure to build in some flexibility to accommodate any unexpected changes in your schedule.

Plan Ahead

Effective planning is the cornerstone of balancing athletics and academics. Here’s how you can set yourself up for success:

– Review Your Syllabus: At the beginning of each semester, thoroughly review your syllabi. Note important dates such as exam schedules, project deadlines, and any required readings. Look ahead in your schedule for busy weeks and adjust your schedule accordingly to not get behind!

– Check Your Athletic Schedule: Keep an updated list of your practice sessions and games. Compare this with your academic schedule to identify potential conflicts.

– Prioritize Tasks: Break down large projects into smaller tasks and set deadlines for each part. This will make daunting assignments feel more manageable and help you stay on top of your workload.

By planning ahead, you can avoid last-minute scrambles and ensure you’re well-prepared for both your academic and athletic commitments.

Identify a Study Partner and a Note-Taker

Sometimes, balancing school and sports means you might miss a class due to travel or competition. To stay on top of your academic game:

– Find a Study Partner: Partnering with a classmate can be invaluable. They can help you understand difficult concepts, quiz you for exams, and keep you motivated. Choose someone who is reliable and willing to work around your athletic schedule.

– Arrange for Note-Taking: If you miss a class, having a reliable classmate who can share notes with you is crucial. Make arrangements with someone in advance, so you’re not scrambling to catch up after missing a session. Many schools also offer resources like note-taking services for students who need them, or you can invest in a voice recorder to listen to lectures you missed (make sure to obtain permission from the professor first)

By having these resources in place, you can ensure you’re not falling behind in your classes, even if you have to miss a lecture or two.

Balancing school, athletics, and a social life requires planning, long-term thinking, and flexibility. Finding a routine that works– including a routine around creating a routine– will be the cornerstone for your success as a student-athlete and also in life!

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