Your first year as a student-athlete can be an exciting and challenging time. Besides the demands of your sport, you also have to adjust to a new culture, a different school system, and often an entirely new environment. Here are some valuable tips to help you make this transition smoothly, ensuring your first year is an amazing one.
Get to know people outside your team and sport.
It is easy to focus entirely on your team, but don’t forget that there is a whole world outside your athletic bubble. Meeting people outside your team can also be very fun and educational and can give you a broader experience. Additionally, it can be useful if you ever want to do something different and fun.
Build a personal relationship with your professors.
A good relationship with your professors can make a big difference. Share details about your sports life and achievements, and show genuine interest in the subject they teach. Professors appreciate engaged students and are often more willing to offer extra help if they see that you take their subject seriously. This can also be advantageous if you ever need to ask for flexibility with deadlines or additional support.
Don’t wait too long if you find yourself struggling with a subject. Universities often have tutors and other resources available to help you. Take the initiative and ask for help; this can prevent you from falling behind and will reduce a lot of stress later in the year. And trust us, the professors and/or tutors really want to help you.
Schedule contact moments with home.
It’s important to stay in touch with friends and family back home, but finding suitable times for everyone can be challenging. Schedule specific times each week to call or video chat. This way, you can better manage your time and avoid constantly searching for a convenient moment. Especially in the beginning, it’s comforting to know when you can call home, and you can arrange similar times with friends as well.
Start preseason in shape
Good preparation is half the battle, especially in sports. Make sure you are fit and ready for preseason. This not only helps prevent injuries but also allows you to make a great impression on your coaches and teammates right from the start. In other words, if you receive a training schedule for the summer, stick to it. Trust us, it will give you a significant advantage at the beginning of the season.
Find the local ‘Chipotle’.
A practical and perhaps unexpected tip: know where the local Chipotle is. Chipotle is a favorite ‘fast food restaurant’ for many. Unlike many other fast food chains, you can find a quick, healthy, and affordable meal here. Especially on busy days or while traveling, it’s handy to have a reliable place to grab a quick bite. So, here’s a tip from us: check if there’s a Chipotle near your university.
Take initiative to do new things
When you have some free time between all your training and classes, don’t wait for others to organize activities. Take the initiative to plan outings and explore new places. This not only helps you relax but also gives you the opportunity to see more of America and broaden your horizons.
Stay in touch with Slamstox
One last, logical tip: even once you’re in America, we still want to hear how things are going and it’s important to stay in touch. We’re here to help if you run into any issues, and we’re also eager to hear all about your experiences and adventures. So don’t forget to send your Slamstox advisor(s) an occasional update—we’ll do the same ;).
Your first year as a student-athlete is a unique opportunity to set yourself up for an unforgettable experience filled with new challenges and opportunities. By following these tips, you can hopefully make your transition a bit smoother and make the most of your time. Remember, it’s an adventure where you’ll grow not only as an athlete but also as a person.
Good luck champs, we are proud of you!
