What's it like ?
THE STUDENT
The US educational experience is among the best in the world and is renowned for the variety and quality of its academic programs. You will find that a US higher education adds considerable value to your professional development. A US education will enhance your career and prepare you for leadership in your country. It will broaden your horizons and expose you to a variety of perspectives, the latest technology, and state-of-the-art research and training. A degree from a US college or university is a stamp of excellence that separates you from the rest.
Furthermore, due to the level of commitment required to gain a degree whilst playing competitive sport, potential employers, very often look upon graduating student athletes favourably, when it comes to employment.
The school year is composed of 2 independent semesters: Semester 1: August - December and Semester 2: January - May
- To earn a Bachelor Degree in the US, each student must complete about 126 credits.
- This means, the student must take on average 16 credits per semester.
- Each course taken has a ‘credit value’ of between 2 and 4 depending on course content.
- This system allows maximum flexibility as students are given the freedom to choose which courses will make up their credits.
THE ATHLETE
All athletes who compete in the NCAA must have amateur status, however, the athletic departments and teams throughout the NCAA are professional in every other way. The facilities and equipment available at NCAA institutions are among the best in the world with global brands, such as Adidas or Nike, usually providing student athletes with their sporting equipment.
As a soccer player, for example, it is not uncommon to play in front of 3,000 spectators or have matches broadcast live on television. You will practice every day, just like a pro, and depending on the location of the match, it is normal to fly to matches in different states, staying in hotels and flying back after the match. Each team also has its own coaching, conditioning and medical staff to ensure that the student athletes are always in peak condition. The level of competition is intense and demands a high level of professionalism from athletes and staff alike.
It is also worth noting that the NCAA is the most competitive sporting environment in the world for 17 – 24 year olds and many athletes turn professional after completing their degree.
The following links should give you an idea of a typical University Athletic Program:
Georgetown University: http://guhoyas.cstv.com
University of Miami: http://hurricanesports.cstv.com
UCLA: http://uclabruins.cstv.com
Syracuse University : www.suathletics.com