The life of a student athlete can be hectic, with days that zoom by due to practices, games and workouts. However, there have been numerous articles written about the benefits of combining a sport with academics. On top of this, attending a small college increases the positive experience of being a student athlete.
1. Talking with classmates about your game the next day.
At a small school, your peers are more likely to attend sporting events because they personally know the people on the team. Since your classmates attend the game, it is a safe bet they will have something to say about your performance. Whether it’s a positive or negative review, it’s nice to know they were paying attention to a certain extent. When a classmate gives me a hard time about how I can play better, it's always funny.
2. Professors are more understanding.
Student athletes are sure to miss a class or need an extension due to their sport. When this happens on a small campus, most professors understand what an athlete has on their plate and are sometimes fans. I’ve had professors actually start a conversation about how the season was going and how the team is doing.
3. Making it to practice on time.
On a small campus, the walk from your last class of the day and the gym or field is likely not a serious hike. Leaving a class that ends at 3:15 p.m. and making it to a practice that begins in 15 minutes is possible, unlike at a major university.
4. Relationship with other athletes.
Another positive of a smaller school and knowing athletes personally is the relationship you build with peers that play other sports. You both have respect for each other because you experience what is involved in the life of a student-athlete. Also, they are more likely to come support you at your game in the fall semester and you return the favor in the spring semester when they are in season.
5. Interacting with community members.
Small campuses are often located in small communities. The people in the communities are usually big supporters of the college athletics and this leads to them knowing your face when you are out and about in the community. I have been stopped for conversation while shopping for groceries because of a basketball hoodie I was wearing.
