Freshman May. Navigating the Path to College Sports: A Freshman Athlete’s Guide
Congratulations! You made it through your freshman year of high school and you are currently on that journey to becoming a successful scholar-athlete. The month of May is here, and it’s time to start thinking about some critical tasks to accomplish as a student-athlete. In this blog post, we will share with you the top three things you should do in May to make the most of your freshman year.
Stay on Schedule and Keep Track of Important Dates
It’s never too early to start thinking about your future and the recruiting process that comes with being a student-athlete. As a freshman, it’s essential to stay on track and keep an eye out for important dates such as D1 and D2 recruiting calendars. Missing a deadline can be costly, leaving you with fewer options for college choices or scholarship opportunities. This is why it’s crucial to mark these dates on your calendar and plan ahead to ensure you meet all the requirements on time.
Continue to Add (or Remove) Colleges to your Notebook
As a student-athlete, one of the most important tasks you need to accomplish is to create a list of potential colleges you want to attend. In May, we recommend that you continue adding (or removing) colleges to your notebook. This list should include the colleges you are interested in and the ones that align with your athletic requirements and academic aspirations. Keep in mind that you don’t have to limit yourself to only athletic schools, and it’s always good to have a variety of options. Use this time in May to do your research on schools that fit your criteria, and don’t be afraid to ask coaches, school counselors, and trusted mentors for guidance.
Conduct Research on Financial Aid Terms
College is expensive, and as a student-athlete, you want to ensure that you can afford to attend your dream school. Understanding financial aid terms can be complicated, and that’s why it’s essential to start researching now. Educate yourself on the different types of financial aid options like grants, scholarships, and loans, and how they can impact your future. Make sure you are aware of deadlines and application processes, so you have plenty of time to apply for financial aid if needed. Reducing future financial stress is a lifelong skill that starts with being proactive during freshman year.
Conclusion
The freshman year of high school is an exciting time filled with new challenges and opportunities. As a student-athlete, it’s critical to stay focused on your goals and create a plan that sets you up for success in the future. Completing the tasks mentioned in this blog post during May will go a long way in ensuring that you stay on track with the college recruiting process and financial aid research. Remember, you got this! Stay motivated and seek guidance from trusted mentors, and you’ll be well on your way towards your dreams. Good luck!