Written by Pat Brown, MBA, Former Student-Athlete
As a parent of a student-athlete, you’ve watched your child excel on the field or court, but now you’re also thinking about life after sports. It’s a big transition, and one that requires careful planning. While athletic programs provide a platform for success, universities often offer a range of resources and support systems to help students transition from being a full-time athlete to pursuing a career. As a former student-athlete myself, I’ve experienced this shift firsthand, and I know it can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to ask the right questions when discussing life after sports with universities. These conversations can help set your child up for success once their athletic career ends.
Here’s a list of essential questions to ask universities about supporting student-athletes in their transition to life after sports.
1. What Career Services Are Available to Student-Athletes?
One of the most important questions to ask is about the career services specifically tailored for student-athletes. Many universities have dedicated programs that cater to the unique challenges student-athletes face. Ask:
- Do you have a career counselor who specializes in helping student-athletes?
- Are there job fairs or networking events designed for student-athletes?
- What resources are available for resume building, job search assistance, and interview prep for students with an athletic background? Understanding how the university supports student-athletes in their post-college career will help ensure your child has the right tools to succeed in their professional journey.
2. How Does the University Help Student-Athletes Balance Academics, Athletics, and Career Preparation?
Student-athletes often juggle intense training schedules and academic requirements, which can make it difficult to focus on career planning. Ask the university how they help athletes balance these priorities:
- Do you offer flexible scheduling or academic support for student-athletes?
- Are there career preparation workshops or courses that accommodate the busy schedules of student-athletes?
- How do you help students manage their time effectively, particularly as they approach graduation? Having resources to help manage time effectively can make the transition to life after sports smoother.
3. What Opportunities Are Available for Internships and Job Shadowing?
Internships and job shadowing experiences are invaluable in helping student-athletes explore career options outside of sports. Ask:
- Are there internship opportunities for student-athletes, and do they align with our child’s career interests?
- Does the university have partnerships with companies that offer internships specifically for athletes?
- Can my child participate in job shadowing programs to gain real-world exposure? These experiences provide a critical glimpse into potential career paths and help students build connections with employers.
4. How Does the University Support Career Development for Non-Pro Sports Career Paths?
While many student-athletes dream of going pro, the reality is that most won’t make it to the professional level. It’s important to explore career paths outside of sports. Ask:
- What resources are available to help my child explore career options beyond professional sports?
- Are there career counseling services that focus on non-sports-related industries?
- How does the university help student-athletes transition into industries such as business, healthcare, or technology? Understanding how the university supports student-athletes who are exploring career paths outside of sports will give you confidence that your child will be prepared for life after athletics.
5. What Alumni Networks and Mentorship Programs Are Available?
The alumni network at a university can be one of the most valuable resources for a student-athlete after graduation. Ask:
- Does the university have an alumni network that connects student-athletes with former athletes now working in different industries?
- Are there mentorship programs for student-athletes to receive career advice from alumni in their field of interest?
- Can my child participate in informational interviews or networking events with alumni in their desired industry? Building connections with alumni can be key to helping your child navigate the job market and establish a career outside of sports.
6. What Support Systems Are in Place for Mental Health and Well-Being During the Transition?
The transition from sports to post-college life can be mentally challenging. Student-athletes often face an identity shift as they move away from being defined by their sport. Ask:
- What mental health resources are available for student-athletes, especially when it comes to handling the transition away from sports?
- Do you provide counseling services for career transition or stress management related to post-athletic life?
- Are there wellness programs to support the emotional and psychological well-being of student-athletes during and after their athletic careers? Ensuring that your child has access to these resources will help them maintain a healthy mindset during the transition.
7. How Do You Prepare Student-Athletes for Financial Independence After Graduation?
Financial planning is crucial for student-athletes, especially those who may have relied on athletic scholarships or stipends. Ask:
- Does the university offer financial literacy programs for student-athletes?
- Are there workshops on budgeting, investing, and managing money after graduation?
- How does the university support student-athletes in building a strong financial foundation for life after sports? Helping your child understand personal finance will empower them to make informed decisions as they enter the workforce.
8. What Post-Graduation Support Does the University Provide?
The support doesn’t have to end once your child graduates. Some universities offer continued career services after graduation, which can be incredibly beneficial:
- Does the university provide post-graduation career counseling or job search assistance?
- Are there alumni events or networking opportunities for recent graduates?
- Can my child access the university’s career services after graduation if they need help transitioning to their next role? Knowing that support is available after graduation can alleviate some of the uncertainty surrounding life after sports.
Conclusion
As a parent, you play an integral role in helping your student-athlete navigate the transition from sports to their professional career. By asking these important questions, you can ensure that your child is equipped with the resources, skills, and support necessary to succeed in life after sports. Universities offer a wealth of resources that can help student-athletes explore career options, develop essential skills, and build a strong foundation for their future. Your support and encouragement will make a world of difference as your child prepares for the next phase of their life.
