I had dreamed of being a college athlete since I was in 8th grade. First, it was with gymnastics. Then, it was with pole vaulting. I'm sure that you have been thinking about competing in college for a while too.

Now, you're probably looking at schools. Maybe even getting recruited by a few. Maybe not. It's all so exciting. But as you move forward, I want you to remember a few things.

First, never give up. If this is really your dream, then always keep working towards it. I can not tell you the number of times when I wouldn't get a response from a coach and would completely doubt whether or not I should even be doing this. Being a college athlete takes work. Unless you are the best in the nation, offers aren't just going to fall in your lap. You have to reach out and continually work towards it.

Second, think about if this is really for you. Ask yourself if you are ready to lift three times a week, on top of practicing five to six times a week, on top of mandatory study hall hours, on top of going to class. You may love your sport. You may not want to give up the experiences that come with playing your sport. But you have to ask yourself if you can handle all that comes with being an athlete and if you want to.

Third, do not pick a school based on athletics. I repeat DO NOT pick a school based on athletics. You are going to college to get an education. Athletics is just a bonus. If you can't see yourself being happy at a college without being an athlete there, you shouldn't be going there. You never know what could happen. Injury is a real thing.

Going to college is one of the most stressful times in your entire life. It's also one of the most rewarding, especially as an athlete. You make life long friends and get to have experiences that most other people will never have.

So keep dreaming. Keep working.

Sincerely,

Someone who has been through it.