By now everyone is settled into their dorms or apartments and college has officially started. Most athletes have already started their season or pre-season. The beginning of the year is always the hardest whether you are a freshman or a senior. The minute you arrive to campus you already have a list of things to do before season starts. Truth is being an athlete is tough, whether people think so or not.

1. "Student-athletes get more privileges".

Yeah this is false. In most of my classes I have to turn in assignments, essays, and projects in advance. Some professors will make you take a test before you leave. In the last 2 years I have never had extensions on any homework or tests because of a tournament.

2. The only phrase you ever say "I can't I have practice".

I feel like every athlete struggles with this. If you have group projects or friends who want to hangout this is probably an automatic reply. Its really hard to schedule around work outs and practice.

3. No free weekends.

Most people will go home or go out. Unfortunately some of us athletes can't. Whether we have games or qualifying, we stick to a strict schedule and usually don't deviate from it. With a class load and practice you're social life is non-existent.

4. Always hungry.

With constant work outs and practices I stay hungry all the time. Some times I have two dinners and I am defintely not ashamed. More than likely we will burn it off during work outs or practice.

5. Naps.

I have to strategically structure my day is I want to get a nap in. I am always tired whether its from an early morning practice or a late night from studying. I never feel like I get enough sleep. We are lucky if we get at least 6-7 hours of sleep in a night.

Being an athlete is tough, but I know I would never replace these years. It is rewarding even if we all struggle at times.