I recently caught up with one of my favorite coaches in college, and we got into a great conversation about student-athletes and their next steps out of school. He reminded me how scary it can be for athletes who are nearing graduation, especially when it means our routine will change pretty abruptly. Everything from our schedules, routines, workout regimens, conversations with teammates and more will end and we’ll need to figure out how to adapt. As college seniors stand at the threshold of graduation, the looming uncertainties of the future can be overwhelming. However, it’s so important that athletes shouldn’t worry about what’s next. Instead, it’s important to recognize that there are numerous reasons why athletes have so much going for themselves.
Just a few hours after my last game as a DI athlete, I remember feeling a subtle panic of having to face the real world. I didn’t have any corporate work experience to add to my resume, no internship lined up, and I didn’t know where to start when it came to looking for jobs. Looking back, I can say with confidence to any athlete or soon-to-be-grad who is worrying: it will be okay. You’ll figure it out. You might have a lot of work ahead of you, but it is possible to achieve success after sports is over, even if you have no idea where to start. There are so many reasons to curb that anxiety and instead, embrace this next chapter in your life with confidence. Here are 10 reasons that why, with a plan, hard work, and a little bit of luck, that you’ll go on to do great things.
10 Reasons College Athletes Shouldn’t Worry About What’s Next
Versatile Skill Set. College equips students with a diverse range of skills beyond just academic knowledge. From critical thinking to problem-solving and effective communication, these skills are applicable in various professional settings, making college seniors adaptable to different challenges. As an athlete, you’re literally a walking playbook for versatility. The critical thinking, work ethic, and hustle needed to excel in sports is a huge advantage when entering the real world. Add in skills like time-management, multitasking, and other skills needed to be successful on and off the court will serve you well after you hang up your cleats.
Networking Opportunities. Throughout their college journey, students build valuable connections with professors, peers, and professionals in their field. These networks can serve as a powerful resource for job opportunities, mentorship, and advice as they navigate the post-graduate landscape. As an athlete, this also means having exclusive access to alumni athletes at your school. Ask your coaches, advisors, or other administrators within your network to help guide your career, advocate for you, and serve as mentors as you grow in your career.
Resilience From Challenges. College is a journey filled with ups and downs, and overcoming academic and personal challenges fosters resilience. College seniors have demonstrated their ability to persevere and bounce back, a crucial quality in the face of uncertainties. When I started interviewing for jobs, hiring managers would see that I was a former athlete and would ask about my experience. I was pretty honest, letting them know that my four years at school didn’t come with a lot of wins, but the lessons I learned and the ways I grew as an individual were huge. I’d like to think that sharing the positive things I gained from my experience playing ball helped put a favorable light on me as a job seeker.
Continuous Learning Mindset. The pursuit of knowledge doesn’t end with graduation. College seniors have cultivated a mindset of continuous learning, making them well-equipped to embrace new technologies, adapt to evolving industries, and stay relevant in the job market. For recent grads, especially those who experienced the challenges that came with playing or repeating a year due to COVID, you are a generation that knows how to adapt to challenges adults have never faced before.
Global Perspective. Many college programs expose students to a diverse array of cultures, ideas, and perspectives. This global outlook enhances their ability to navigate an interconnected world, fostering a broader understanding that can be an asset in any career.
Internship and Work Experience. Internships and work experiences gained during college contribute significantly to a senior’s employability. These practical encounters provide real-world insights, develop industry-specific skills, and make them more attractive candidates to potential employers. Landing an internship right after I graduated gave me some really great experience, and helped me learn about new industries, including learning about tasks I did and didn’t enjoy.
Career Services Support. Most colleges offer robust career services that assist students in resume building, interview preparation, and job searching. Taking advantage of these resources can significantly alleviate the stress associated with transitioning from college to the workforce.
Entrepreneurial Spirit. Many college seniors graduate with an entrepreneurial spirit, whether it’s launching their own ventures or contributing innovative ideas to existing organizations. This mindset opens up opportunities for self-discovery and the creation of unique career paths. Even if you don’t consider yourself entrepreneurial, bringing a fresh perspective to an existing role can help you progress professionally.
Embracing Change. College seniors are entering a dynamic world where change is constant. Their educational journey has prepared them to be adaptable, open to new ideas, and capable of navigating evolving industries with resilience and creativity. Being flexible and able to ‘pivot’ as a professional can help you overcome obstacles at work more quickly than those who are resistant to change.
Innovation and Creativity. College education encourages students to think critically and creatively. These qualities are highly sought after in the workforce, as innovation becomes a driving force in many industries. Graduates are well-positioned to contribute fresh ideas and perspectives to their chosen fields.
As you embark on your post-graduate journeys, it’s crucial to acknowledge the wealth of experiences and skills you’ve acquired. By focusing on your versatile skill set, networks, resilience, and the myriad opportunities ahead, you can confidently step into the future, ready to tackle whatever challenges come their way. The transition from college to the professional world is not an endpoint but the beginning of a new and exciting chapter.