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ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University student-athletes shared their experiences of balancing the demands of academics and athletics during the “Flip the Script: The Unique Experience of Student Athletes” event on Nov. 19 in the ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University College of Business. 

The event, sponsored by the Athletics Council, featured eight student-athletes who provided insights into the challenges of managing rigorous training schedules and coursework. Participating athletes included:

• Chloe Rodriguez, Track and Field
• Patrick Wolf, Track and Field
• Kalyn Xayaseng, Softball
• Glennis Woolridge, Track and Field
• Ke'Asia Hall, Track and Field
• Kenson Tate, Track and Field
• Emily Moon, Volleyball
• Kayli Johnson, Track and Field

“We want to bridge the gap between student-athletes and faculty, highlighting the challenges we face and fostering a greater understanding of how we balance academics and athletics,” senior Chloe Rodriguez said.

Recurring topic during the discussion was the importance of time management, balance, and mental health. Kenson Tate emphasized the complexity of managing a packed schedule. “We have to carefully plan our days,” Tate said. “Balancing practice, classes, and everything else takes a lot of effort. Time management is one of our biggest challenges.”

Rodriguez also addressed a common misconception that student-athletes receive special treatment academically.

“Some people think we don’t work as hard as non-athletes,” she said. “In reality, our schedules require us to develop exceptional time management skills. We spend more than 20 hours a week training and competing, in addition to handling our coursework. The discipline we gain from sports often helps us in the classroom.”

The panel also shed light on the experiences of international student-athletes, with Patrick Wolf sharing the unique challenges those students may face.

“For international students, especially those still learning English, communication can be intimidating,” he said. “Many of us learn English to pass the TOEFL just to get into school, and then we have to use it every day, whether in emails or in person. It can be difficult, but I appreciate how respectful most people are about it. I haven’t had anyone disrespectful, and that support makes a big difference.”

The event included a Q&A session, allowing faculty, staff, and students to further engage with the panelists and learn more about the student-athlete experience.

The Athletics Council, which organized the event, serves as an advisor to the President of ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University and the Director of Athletics. The Council advocates for student-athletes, promoting academic achievement, well-being, and a positive student-athlete experience.

For more information about the Athletics Council and upcoming events, visit /faculty-staff/committees/athletic-council/index.html.