Being a student is a full-time job. For students who participate in athletics, that job is even harder. While most student athletes are concerned with their performance in the game, their performance in the classroom has even more implications for the future. Here are five tips to help student athletes keep up their grades for a successful college career.
1. Communicate Clearly
Whether you are on the basketball court or the football field, all players have to communicate where they are and what they are doing. This type of communication is also important in the classroom. With practices and travel schedules, student athletes need to make sure that teachers know when they will be gone in order to make the necessary accommodations. Communication can also help students when they are struggling. Teachers are often willing to help students, but they have to know that the students are working as hard as possible for academic success.
2. Make a Schedule
Student athletes have more to do than other students. Between practices, games and other team commitments, it can be hard to fit in time for classes. This is why scheduling is so important. Student athletes need to keep track of the schedule in order to make sure that nothing gets shoved aside. If students do not make time for their classes, then their grades are likely to suffer for a lack of attention. Scheduling can also give student athletes the right amount of time for recreation and socialization without letting their grades slip.
3. Flexible Study Hours
It can be easy to overlook study opportunities. Too many student athletes separate their schoolwork from their athletics. Instead, it is better to remember that both things are valuable and deserve attention. Therefore, student athletes should always take their books on the road. Studying while traveling can be a great way to use time that would otherwise go to waste. It also gives student athletes better consistency in their schoolwork, which can help with retention. If student athletes only pursue their academics while at home, they will struggle to make the grade.
4. Stay Healthy
Being on top of your game is important in sports, but it is also important in school. General health and wellbeing are the only ways to keep your mind and body in peak condition. During athletics, training will help keep athletes limber and fit. In academics, students just need to rely on a bit of common sense. Student athletes need to eat healthy and stay hydrated. Getting enough sleep consistently is also important. These wellness habits are not only valuable during the season, but they should be commitments all year long. This allows students to stay primed to play and study at all times.
5. Remember the Future
Most student athletes are more concerned with their game rather than their studies. Doing your best is important, but student athletes need to keep a good perspective about the purpose of their studies. Some student athletes will go on to play sports professionally after graduation, but very few will have a sports career that lasts. That is why keeping your studies up is critical. Sports may be an excellent college opportunity, but a degree will be a lifelong ticket to success. This type of perspective can help student athletes make the best decisions for their college days.
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Student athletes have a lot of opportunities. They also have a lot more demands. These tips can help student athletes be as good in the classroom as they are in the game.