Creating the College list for Prospective Student-Athletes

Creating the College list for Prospective Student-Athletes

Building a college list for a prospective student-athlete differs significantly from creating one for a non-athlete. A typical college list for non-athletes usually begins with four key factors including career objectives, academic interests and major, cost, and location. Prospective student-athletes need to consider additional criteria. At PrepSearch, we recommend an initial list based on seven essential factors: current recruitment status, location, campus setting, college size, sport, academic area of interest and major, and admissions selectivity. Luckily, PrepSearch clients have an advantage because we use proprietary software (not generic algorithms found in free online list-builders) to quickly create individualized and customized college lists, making the process both efficient and personalized.

When I refer to creating an initial list, I mean that every college-bound student should develop 2-3 lists, and student-athletes should create 3-4 lists, as their recruitment evolves and  they advance through high school. For prospective student-athletes, I recommend starting this process as early as 7th or 8^th grade  and revisiting and updating the list at least once each year throughout high school. Additionally, the list should be revised at least twice before making any official college visits. Each list should be based on the seven core criteria mentioned above, and it’s essential to consider cost of attendance, particularly if the student-athlete might not receive a full athletic scholarship that covers tuition, housing, meals, fees, or total cost of attendance.

Setting

The location and setting of a college can significantly influence a student’s overall experience. Schools situated in urban, suburban, or rural environments each offer distinct advantages and challenges, and the right fit depends on what kind of lifestyle and atmosphere a student prefers.

Urban campuses are typically located in large cities, offering students access to a wide variety of cultural, social, and professional opportunities. From internships and job prospects to a vibrant arts scene and diverse restaurants, an urban setting provides an exciting, fast-paced environment. Students at urban universities often find themselves surrounded by a dynamic, ever-changing cityscape, with easy access to public transportation, museums, music venues, and a wealth of local businesses. However, the hustle and bustle of city life can also come with distractions, higher living costs, and a sometimes overwhelming sense of anonymity. Students in urban areas may need to be more proactive in finding their community and navigating the noise and pace of the city.

Suburban campuses strike a balance between the energy of city life and the tranquility of more open spaces. Suburbs often offer a quieter, less crowded environment with ample green spaces and a greater sense of community. These campuses may be close enough to a major city to enjoy cultural and career opportunities but far enough removed to avoid the constant rush and noise of urban living. Suburban schools typically offer more affordable living options compared to urban campuses, and students may enjoy a peaceful, spacious setting for academic and personal growth. While suburban areas can provide a nice balance, they may lack the immediate proximity to certain industries, internships, or nightlife that an urban setting might offer.

Rural campuses provide a completely different experience, with sprawling, often picturesque campuses surrounded by nature and fewer distractions. Students at rural colleges tend to have a close-knit campus community, where relationships with peers and professors can be more intimate. The slower pace and peaceful surroundings offer an ideal setting for students who want to focus deeply on their studies, athletics, or creative endeavors without the distractions of city life. However, rural areas can also present challenges, including limited access to jobs, entertainment, and cultural activities. The isolation of a rural setting can make some students feel disconnected from the broader world, but for others, it offers the perfect environment for personal reflection, outdoor activities, and building tight bonds with the campus community.

Each setting whether urban, suburban, and rural, offers a unique college experience, and prospective student-athletes and any college bound student should consider which environment will help them thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Enrollment

The size of a college plays a pivotal role in shaping a student’s overall experience, including the level of personal attention they receive, the range of extracurricular activities, and the social environment. Larger universities, with enrollments of 10,000 or more students, often provide a wide array of academic programs, clubs, and organizations, creating a bustling campus atmosphere. These schools tend to have diverse student bodies, with opportunities to interact with peers from different backgrounds and interests. However, the larger the institution, the more likely it is that students may feel like just another face in the crowd, especially in large lecture halls and general campus spaces.

On the other hand, smaller colleges, typically enrolling fewer than 3,000 students, tend to offer a more intimate learning environment where students can forge closer relationships with professors and peers. Small schools are often known for their tight-knit communities, where everyone seems to know each other, and faculty members can offer more individualized attention. This can be an advantage for students who thrive in environments where they can develop deeper connections with their professors and peers. While smaller colleges may not have as many academic programs or extracurricular options as larger universities, the personalized attention and the opportunity to engage in a wide range of activities can make these schools appealing to many students.

Choosing the right college size is a deeply personal decision. Some students thrive in large, bustling environments, while others prefer the more close-knit and supportive atmosphere of a smaller school. It’s important for prospective students to think about what type of campus experience will allow them to grow academically, socially, and personally.

Admissions Selectivity

When it comes to choosing a college, understanding its admissions selectivity is crucial. Not all colleges have the same level of competition for spots, and it’s important for students to evaluate their chances of admission based on their academic qualifications and the overall rigor of their high school preparation even if they are a prospect or recruiting student-athlete. While it may be tempting to consider the most prestigious and selective institutions, prospective student-athletes should carefully assess whether their academic background aligns with a college’s requirements and whether they are well-prepared for the academic challenges ahead before any unofficial or official visit.

Admissions Selectivity

Colleges can generally be divided into categories based on their selectivity: highly selective, moderately selective, and less selective. Highly selective colleges, such as Ivy League schools or other prestigious universities, have low acceptance rates and rigorous admission standards. These schools typically look for students with excellent academic records, exceptional standardized test scores (if required), and a robust extracurricular profile. It’s important to realistically assess whether your academic profile matches the type of student these schools tend to admit. For instance, a student with a high GPA, a strong set of AP or honors courses, and competitive test scores is likely a better fit for a highly selective school, while a student with slightly lower academic achievements might fare better at a moderately selective or less selective institution.

One of the most important factors in determining admissions probability is a student’s high school academic record. Admissions committees place a strong emphasis on the rigor of the courses a student has taken. High schools offer a variety of course levels, such as regular, honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and International Baccalaureate (IB). Students who challenge themselves with advanced courses, particularly in core subjects like math, science, English, and foreign languages, are seen as more prepared for the academic demands of college. Colleges want to admit students who have shown they can handle a challenging curriculum, as this predicts future success in their college coursework.

In addition to course rigor, GPA plays a crucial role in admissions decisions. A high GPA demonstrates academic consistency and the ability to excel in challenging courses. However, students should be aware that some colleges consider GPA in the context of the high school’s grading scale. For example, a 4.0 at a highly competitive high school may be viewed differently than a 4.0 at a less rigorous institution, so it’s important to ensure that your GPA aligns with the standards of the schools you’re applying to.

While many schools have moved toward test-optional admissions policies, standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT still play a role in the application process for many colleges. Students should consider whether their scores meet the typical range for admitted students at their target schools. For more selective colleges, having test scores that align with or exceed the average for admitted students can strengthen an application. However, for less selective schools, test scores may carry less weight, and the emphasis may be placed more on other factors such as GPA, course rigor, and extracurricular involvement.

Additionally, holistic admissions are increasingly common, particularly at selective institutions. This means that colleges evaluate applicants not just on academic performance, but also on extracurricular activities, leadership roles, personal essays, recommendations, and other unique qualities or life experiences. While strong academics remain the foundation of a competitive application, students with exceptional talents, unique experiences, or a compelling story may still be considered even if their GPA or test scores fall slightly below the typical range.

When selecting schools to apply to, it’s important to balance ambition with realism. Students should apply to a range of colleges, including dream colleges (where admission and competing in a sport may be a long shot), target colleges (where their academic profile closely aligns with the admitted student average and there is an above average chance to compete in a sport), and safety colleges (where they are highly likely to be admitted and be able to compete in a sport). Applying only to highly selective schools can limit a student’s chances of admission, so it’s essential to ensure that the colleges on your list reflect a broad spectrum of selectivity and give you a better chance of being accepted.

Ultimately, selecting a college is not just about finding the most prestigious school but about finding a place where you are academically prepared to succeed. Ensuring that your high school preparation, course selection, GPA, and test scores, aligns with the academic demands of your target schools will give you the best chance of admission, while also setting you up for academic and athletic success once you enroll.

Area of Academic Interest and Major

For many student-athletes, balancing their athletic commitments with their academic pursuits is one of the most challenging parts of college life. Colleges offer varying levels of academic rigor, with some schools being highly selective in admissions while others may provide a more relaxed academic environment. It’s essential for athletes to consider the academic offerings of a school, especially if they have a particular field of study in mind. Certain colleges are known for excelling in specific areas, such as engineering, business, or the arts. Aligning athletic goals with academic interests is crucial for long-term success. Moreover, prospective student-athletes should research the level of academic support provided for athletes such as tutoring, academic advising, and flexible class scheduling, which can help ensure that they can thrive both in their sport and in the classroom and most importantly graduate on time.

Sports

Each sport has its own unique recruiting landscape. For example, basketball, football, and baseball tend to have highly competitive recruitment processes with large numbers of athletes vying for limited spots, while sports like swimming, cross-country, or tennis may provide more opportunities at smaller colleges. Recruitment in certain sports can also vary depending on the level of competition. For prospective student-athletes aiming to compete at the highest level, Division I colleges with their massive budgets and state-of-the-art facilities are often the goal. However, athletes in sports that aren’t as high-profile might find Division II or NAIA schools more attractive, as they may offer more opportunities to compete and academic flexibility.

Ultimately, the college athletics recruiting process is about finding a college that balances athletic and academic opportunities while fitting the student’s personal preferences for location, campus setting, and academic programs. A successful recruiting journey takes into account not only athletic goals but also factors like academic interests, the school’s culture, and overall fit. By considering the full spectrum of what a college offers, athletes can make an informed decision that supports both their athletic ambitions and academic success, ensuring a well-rounded college experience.

To learn more about PrepSearch and how I’ve helped over 1,700 students attend college through sports since 2007, please explore the rest of my website. For more information about my seminars for high schools and clubs, or to inquire about my recruiting advisory services, feel free to complete the contact form on my website at www.prepsearch.net.

If you know a prospective student-athlete in grades 8-12 who could benefit from additional free exposure to college coaches, have them download the new PrepSearch app today! It’s available in both the Apple App Store and Google Play Stores.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.prepssearchappsapp

https://apps.apple.com/app/prepsearch-app/id6738037970

EM