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If you are gearing up to go to college, you are likely focused on maintaining a good GPA, but getting involved in extracurriculars in high school can be another important factor.

One type of extracurricular that you may want to consider is joining a club. High schools usually have a variety of clubs available for students to join. Joining a club comes with many benefits and can also make your high school experience more fun and memorable. Read on to learn more about why clubs are important and how to get involved.

Benefits of Joining a Club

The list of things to do while in high school can seem pretty overwhelming at times, especially when you add college preparation to the mix. There are classes to stay on top of, events and parties to attend, and soon enough college applications roll around. Balancing coursework and a social life can be a struggle, but one way to combine social life with college preparation is by joining a club.

There are a lot of benefits to joining a high school club. Many colleges like to see that applicants are well-rounded, so academic success isn’t the only way to stand out among other applicants. Clubs provide colleges with insight into what a student’s interests and passions are. In addition, they help students develop time management skills and responsibility.

Learning to balance work and fun while in high school can help make it easier to maintain that balance after entering college.

Joining a club in high school can also provide an opportunity for students to relax and have some fun. Having fun is a vital piece of creating a memorable high school experience and it can help students perform better in class.

Not only is the social time enjoyable for some students, but participation in clubs can also help students develop their “soft” skills, such as effective communication and learning to work with others.

In addition to making friends, being in a club gives students the opportunity to bond with their faculty advisor, who is usually a teacher. Building a relationship with teachers during high school is important for getting quality letters of recommendation to add to those college applications.

Common High School Clubs

The list of high school clubs that are available at each school will differ. Generally, a school will have a variety of clubs available. These can range from clubs that are academic, like a foreign language club, to clubs that are artistic, like a creative writing club, or something that’s related to a student’s hobbies, like a videogame club.

Usually, high schools will also have clubs that participate in some kind of volunteer work or community service. These can be clubs that do work in the community hospitals, in meal programs for the homeless or elderly, and much more.

Some clubs are high-tech, like the robotics club, and some are more old-school, like the chess club. Schools will usually have a lot of variety in the types of clubs that exist, and there may be some clubs that are unique to just your school. Since students can often start their own clubs, there isn’t one set list of clubs that will exist at every school.

Recommended: How to Get Involved on Campus in College

Starting a Club

If students don’t like the selection of clubs available at their school (why doesn’t every school have a waffle club?) then they are generally able to start their own. Starting a new club has a lot of benefits for the students who choose to put in the work to get one up and running.

There is no list of “correct” clubs to start in high school, most colleges value students who show commitment to something they care about. It’s about the quality of the activities they spend time in, not the quantity.

Seeing that a student has started a new club will show college admissions that the student has developed leadership and organizational abilities. Starting a club shows initiative, and sometimes, students who start clubs will end up in one of the leadership positions, like President, Vice President, Secretary, or Treasurer.

Each school will have its own process for starting a club, but there are a few steps that will be the same everywhere.

•   The first step is, of course, figuring out what the club is about. Is it going to focus on community service, something academic? Will it be focused more on fun and entertainment?

•   After a topic for the club is chosen, students should figure out what the purpose and goals of the club are. If the club is about chess, will students be learning how to play? Will club members be entering tournaments together? Figuring out the purpose of the club and what its goals are before members join will help limit confusion and manage everyone’s expectations.

•   At most schools, the club will have to get registered after its name and purpose are defined by founding members. Registering the club makes it official and once this step is complete students can actually begin enjoying their club.

•   Gaining new members and planning the first club meeting is an important next step.

Once the club is official and ready to start, it’s time to focus on recruitment and preparing for the first meeting. Students should choose a date, time, and location for the first meeting before recruiting, that way they have information to give interested students on when activities will be beginning.

Before the meeting, club members should know what they plan on discussing with the new recruits and how long they want the meeting to last. Usually, the first meeting is a good time to go over the club’s purpose and goals and to get contact information from the new members.

Sometime in the first few meetings, it may be a good idea to assign leadership roles for the club. These usually include President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. The way these roles function can differ from club to club, but their usual responsibilities are as follows:

•   The President will lead the club and supervise meetings and activities.

•   The Vice President assists the President and takes over their roles whenever the Present isn’t available.

•   The Secretary takes notes during meetings and helps keep all members up to date on the club’s plans.

•   The Treasurer will manage the club’s budget and keep track of expenses.

Assigning leadership roles will help keep the club running smoothly and make it easier for the club to meet its goals.

Planning Ahead for College

It’s really never too soon to start planning, as well as saving, for college. The process of researching schools and then applying can be time-consuming, so the earlier students begin their research, the less last-minute cramming they’ll have to do.

A vital piece of planning for college is figuring out how to finance college. Most schools come with a pretty large price tag, but there are a variety of ways that students can help fund their college tuition.

To apply for federal financial aid, students will need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will allow you to find out if you are eligible for different forms of financial aid, including grants, scholarship, federal student loans, and work-study. Grants and scholarships usually do not need to be repaid, whereas loans do need to be repaid.

It’s recommended that students exhaust their federal aid options before looking into private student loans. Federal student loans vs private loans come with certain benefits.

If students are not eligible for federal aid, or the financial aid they receive is not enough to meet their needs, there are other options, such as private scholarships and private student loans.

Scholarships are widely available and the eligibility criteria varies for each one. Some scholarships are need-based, while others are merit-based. Scholarships are available through schools, local communities, and corporations.

Taking out private student loans is another option for helping to fund a college education. These loans are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. Generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

The Takeaway

As you prepare for college, academics are important but so are extracurricular activities. One good way to build up the latter is to join or even start a club in high school that allows you to pursue a topic you’re passionate about while gaining teamwork, organizational, and communication skills. This can help you stand out when applying to a school and applying for financial aid.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

Is joining clubs in high school important?

Joining clubs in high school can help develop and showcase such skills as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. It can also be a key component of a college application in addition to academic credentials.

What are the benefits of joining a club?

Joining a club in high school can provide social interaction, a sense of community, pursuit of interests, and skill development. It can also help round out a college application.

Does starting a club in high school look good?

Yes, starting a club in high school can have a positive impact on a college application. It can show leadership, initiative, and organizational skills, which may add to a student’s college profile.

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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOISL-Q325-106

When considering where to go to college, a young adult has an array of choices, such as public versus private schools and colleges versus universities. There are also liberal arts colleges, which can offer an appealingly broad-based education with an emphasis on producing well-rounded individuals versus, say, putting graduates on a specific career track.

Students can major in a wide range of subjects at a liberal arts college, including the arts, literature, philosophy, social sciences, natural sciences, and even math or engineering. Read on to learn more about liberal arts colleges, including what they offer, how they compare to larger universities, and how you can cover the cost of a liberal arts education.

A More Personal Vibe

Though both universities and liberal arts colleges will help prepare students for entering the working world, there are some differences in what the experience will be like:

1.   Liberal arts colleges are typically smaller. Most classes will have far fewer students than is the case at a university lecture hall, which can have hundreds attending at the same time.

2.   Because of the smaller size, it may be easier for students to bond with their professors. The faculty members often have more time to spend with their students.

3.   The focus of a liberal arts school is undergraduate education. At universities, there will likely be graduate programs and major research efforts.

A liberal arts college may be the best college fit for students who prefer a more personalized experience; one where they can get to know faculty members and other students.

Those trying to decide which college is right for them can take this eight-question college personality quiz.


💡 Quick Tip: Fund your education with a low-rate, no-fee SoFi private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

The Admissions Process

The application process for getting into a liberal arts college is similar to other schools. Students will have to submit the usual components: an application with transcripts, possibly test scores, plus essays and letters of recommendation.

Liberal arts colleges may have a different focus when it comes to reviewing applications, though, so it’s essential to keep the following information in mind when applying to a liberal arts college.

When it comes to test scores and grades, liberal arts colleges don’t always have specific requirements. Admissions can still be very competitive at these schools, but they’re often more interested in whether or not students challenged themselves in high school. Generally, they want to see that applicants are well-rounded but also have an area of interest they specialize in.

Extracurriculars are important when applying to any college, but liberal arts colleges often value a wide range of activities, not just those that involve leadership.

A liberal arts college may be more likely to value extracurricular activities that are outside the box, so students applying to these schools have more options for what they can get involved in.

The Common Application, which can be used to apply to more than 1,000 schools, only requires one essay. However, many liberal arts colleges will require at least two supplemental essays. The reason is that these schools tend to put a high value on writing and critical thinking. This can be beneficial for students who have strong writing skills but who may be weaker in other areas.

Many liberal arts colleges are also interested in a student’s character and how they’ll contribute to the school, so they may put more weight on letters of recommendation and interviews than other schools.

Top-Ranked Liberal Arts Colleges

According to U.S. News’s latest National Liberal Arts Colleges Rankings, the top ten liberal arts colleges are:

1. Williams College
2. Amherst College
3. Swarthmore College
4. United States Naval Academy
5. Bowdoin College
6. Pomona College
7. Wellesley College
8. Carleton College (tie)
8. Claremont McKenna College (tie)
8. United States Air Force Academy (tie)

Financial Value of a Liberal Arts Education

There’s a stereotype about people who pursue a liberal arts education: They won’t find financial success and their degree could be useless. This claim isn’t backed by evidence, though, so students who feel like a liberal arts college is the right choice for them shouldn’t be scared away by this false narrative.

The gap in income between those who attend a liberal arts college and those who attend other schools isn’t necessarily linked to the institution.

Instead, it’s determined more by a student’s career path and the market forces at the time, according to two economists whose landmark study analyzed the payoff of a liberal arts college education.

Another reason for this misconception is that people are unaware of the diverse selection of topics that are studied at liberal arts colleges. If people don’t actually know what is being studied at these colleges, they’ll have a more difficult time conceptualizing what a student’s future could entail.

Though graduates of liberal arts colleges may not earn as much as those from STEM-oriented institutions right away, the economists’ study found that 60% of students ended up in the top 40% of U.S. income after graduation, even if they started out in the bottom 60%.

Choosing where to attend college and whether or not it will have a “payoff” is personal to each student.

Attending a liberal arts college can lead to upward mobility, but students also have to take into account the cost of the education and the availability of financial aid when choosing which school will have the most value for them.

Paying for College

Along with the painstaking process of choosing where to apply for college and making a final decision, there is another difficult process: figuring out the cost of tuition and how to pay for college. Some people believe that liberal arts colleges are pricey, and indeed, if the top-rated school, Williams College, is any indication at $68,560 for tuition and fees, that could be correct.

Luckily, students usually have access to a few options that may help fund the yearly cost of attendance, which goes beyond tuition and fees to usually include room and board, books, supplies, transportation, loan fees, costs related to a disability, and reasonable costs for eligible study-abroad programs.

To figure out financing, a good place to start is by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will let you know if you are eligible for federal financial aid, which includes grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans (which may be subsidized or unsubsidized).

Some private colleges use a supplemental form called the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile, to determine how to give out their own financial aid. The form is more detailed than the FAFSA. Almost every college that meets financial need for all enrolled students without federal student loans uses the CSS Profile.

Most liberal arts colleges are private and carry a relatively high “sticker price,” which includes tuition, fees, room and board. But students will typically pay less, and sometimes far less, when grants, scholarships, and other benefits are factored in.

If students will require some type of student loan to cover the cost of college, it’s recommended they take out federal loans before private loans, because the former come with benefits that the latter usually do not, like lower fixed interest rates and income-based repayment.

Private scholarships may also be widely available. Some are need based; others are merit based. They’re offered by schools, companies, community organizations, religious groups, and more.

Private student loans are an option as well. Eligibility usually depends on a student’s income and credit score or those of a cosigner. These loans are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders and rates and terms vary, depending on the lender.

The Takeaway

A liberal arts school isn’t solely focused on teaching students a profession, but a degree from a reputable liberal arts school can lead to a rewarding career. The skills students learn at a liberal arts college — which include communication, analysis, and the ability to work in a team — are ones that are often highly valued by today’s employers.

While liberal arts colleges are known for their high cost, keep in mind that your actual cost of attendance may well be much lower than the sticker price, once you take grants, scholarships, and other types of financial aid into consideration. Student loans can also help bridge any gaps.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

What’s the difference between a liberal arts college and a regular college?

Typically, a liberal arts college focuses on a broad, interdisciplinary education in the arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences. A regular college or university, however, may offer a specialized curriculum which places a greater emphasis on research and professional training.

What does it mean for a university to be liberal arts?

A liberal arts university is usually an educational institution offering undergraduate and graduate degrees that prioritizes a broad education across various academic disciplines. Instead of focusing on specialized vocational training, these universities prioritize critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills.

What’s the point of going to a liberal arts college?

A liberal arts education can have many benefits, such as fostering critical thinking, communication skills, and a broad understanding of various subjects. In this way, it can prepare students for diverse career paths and develop deeper engagement in the world around them.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOISL-Q325-109

For many students, heading off to college offers the exciting opportunity to live on their own for the first time. That might mean moving into a freshman dorm or an on-campus apartment or finding an off-campus living space.

Which is better? The answer will depend on your personal preferences, what year you are in school, your budget, and where you go to college. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of living on campus vs living off campus.

Pros of Living On Campus

Many students dream of the day they’ll pack their bags and begin a new life at college. And, for many, a major part of that fantasy involves living on campus. The reason is that living in a freshman dorm with hoards of other students the same age can be a lot of fun.

Living on campus also comes with some other advantages. Generally, arranging on-campus housing is relatively easy, especially for freshmen who may be more likely to get a spot, or may be required to live on campus. Unlike apartment hunting, which can be time-consuming and challenging, living on campus can be a more straightforward arrangement, and there are generally additional resources provided for students in on-campus housing.

For example, there is generally an RA (Resident Advisor/Assistant) that can answer any questions and help resolve conflicts with roommates. Plus RA’s may run programming for the floor, or dorm, to encourage community and help students meet each other.

Typically, students living in on-campus housing can also purchase a meal plan, which means they don’t need to find time to grocery shop or cook meals when they should be cramming for finals.

Living on campus also means students are conveniently close to all of the resources provided by their school. This not only makes it easier and faster to get to your classes, but also to access on-campus dining, gyms, the health center, libraries, and student recreation centers. Attending on-campus events and getting to a professor’s office hours can also be easier when you’re living on campus.

Cons of Living On Campus

While very convenient and exciting in many ways, on campus housing has its downsides.

For one, dormitory living often involves small spaces and lack of privacy. You may need to share a bathroom with your entire hall. And you may end up living in close quarters with a roommate you don’t know or have much in common with. In addition, finding quiet time to focus on your studies can be a challenge in a dorm.

Another potential downside to living on campus is that you may not have access to a kitchen and will need to eat your meals according to the dining hall’s schedule.

Living on campus can also be more expensive than living off campus. Dorm living, including a meal plan, could stack up to be pricier than living off campus and cooking for yourself.

Pros of Living Off Campus

While you may think that living on campus is the key to having a true college experience, there are actually some benefits associated with living off campus.

Some students may greatly appreciate having a bit of separation from their school life and their personal life, especially as they inch closer to graduation and they begin to plan their transition to the post-college era.

Another major benefit of living off campus is the potential to save some money on living expenses and to have some extra flexibility. Living off campus can be cheaper than living on campus, depending on factors like where the college is located and how close to campus the house is located. Living off campus may also allow you to spend less on food, since you will likely have access to a kitchen and full-size refrigerator.

Another potential advantage of off-campus housing is that you may be able to find a larger living space with more privacy than you could get in a dorm. Plus, you may have a 12-month lease, which gives the option of staying on campus over the summer to study, get an internship, or find a summer job. (However, this could end up being a con if you are on the hook for a lease when you don’t actually need to be in town.)

Recommended: 5 Ways to Start Preparing for College

Cons of Living Off Campus

While living off campus can provide more flexibility, it may involve having to commute to campus. In some cases, students may be able to find off-campus housing within walking distance to school but often you will need to drive. This brings its own set of complications, such as traffic and parking (which on some campuses can be expensive and competitive). Owning and maintaining a car also adds to your college costs.

A commute may also make it less appealing to participate in on-campus events and take advantage of campus amenities like gyms, health centers, and libraries. Spending time with friends may also take more coordination than just walking down the hall.

When it comes to living in off-campus housing, many students may also not be prepared to take on the responsibilities of adult living. While each student’s living situation will vary depending on their specific housing arrangements, many can expect to cook more, clean more, and be more responsible for properly maintaining their off- campus housing. And if they’re having issues with their roommate, there is no RA to help them clear the air.

Keeping School Requirements in Mind

At the end of the day, there is no “best” choice for a college living arrangement. There are so many variables, including the school’s location, the student’s priorities and personality, and how much each option will cost.

One caveat is that some students may not have a choice about whether they live on campus or not. Some colleges and universities require their students to live on campus for a certain amount of years. This is a more common requirement for freshman students, as colleges want them to integrate into campus life and feel engaged and supported.

If you don’t want to live on campus, despite there being a requirement to do so, it’s worth seeing if the school allows students to petition to live off campus. Allowances are sometimes made for students whose families live nearby or who have health issues or specific dietary requirements that can’t be met easily through on-campus dining options.

On the other end of the spectrum, some colleges only guarantee housing on-campus for a certain number of years, resulting in students living off campus at one time or another.

Some colleges and universities provide online resources and other information for students who are interested in living off campus. These resources can help students find housing and make the transition to off campus housing a bit easier.

Financing College Life

Regardless of where you live, you’ll need to figure out how to pay for it. Some students may be able to use the financial aid they receive to help pay for their room and board.

Scholarships may have restrictions on how they can be used, and room and board or rent may or may not be eligible expenses. Review the details of specific scholarships to understand what costs they can help fiance. Student loans can generally be used to pay for tuition as well as living expenses and housing.

There are two different types of student loans that you may be able to tap — private and federal student loans.

Federal student loans may be subsidized by the government, which means interest won’t start to accrue until six months after you graduate, or they may be unsubsidized, which means interest begins accruing right away. Either way, you don’t have to start making payments until six months after graduation. Federal loans come with a fixed interest rate set by the Congress annually, and they don’t require a credit check.

If federal student loans do not fully cover your costs, you may also want to explore getting a private student loan.

Private student loans are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. These loans do require a credit check and, generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind, though, that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment plans and Public Service Loan Forgiveness — that automatically come with federal student loans.

The Takeaway

Each student needs to navigate whether living on or off campus in college is the right fit for them, though some educational institutions require on-campus living for at least part of a student’s time on campus. On-campus housing can be convenient and build a sense of community, while off-campus housing may foster independence and might save some money.

Financing college costs, whether living on or off campus, is an important factor for many college students.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

Is living on campus or off campus better?

Deciding whether to live on or off campus is preferable depends on personal priorities and circumstances. Living on campus can offer convenience and a sense of community, while living off campus can provide more independence and lower costs for some students.

Is it usually cheaper to live on or off campus?

The prevailing wisdom is that it’s more affordable to live off campus because you aren’t required to pay for a meal plan and other college charges. That said, if you choose to live off campus in a high-priced city, your costs could be more than living on campus.

What are the cons of living on campus?

Potential cons to living on campus can include lack of privacy, a roommate you don’t get along with, communal bathrooms, and being locked into a cafeteria meal plan that you don’t like. Also, living on campus can be more expensive.

About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.

SOISL-Q325-108

For student athletes, staying on top of their academics and extracurricular activities, along with everything else that college entails, can be a challenge. Their chosen sport is basically a full-time job ― and a physically-demanding one at that.

To make it to your college graduation, you’ve got to keep your grades up and find the time to study, which can be especially challenging during your freshman year.

Read on to learn some simple and effective strategies that can help you balance your responsibilities in the classroom and on the court, field, or wherever you play.

Planning Your Class Schedule Accordingly

Often, coaches will outline clear timeframes for practice and training that student athletes need to plan their class schedules around. Additionally, games and competitions are usually scheduled far enough in advance for student athletes to know which days of the week they’ll be traveling most often.

Still, there may be some discretion in choosing class times. Keeping in mind when you prefer to eat, sleep, and study is key to creating a schedule that will help you perform as a student and athlete.

Although many student athletes maintain an active training schedule throughout the year, the official NCAA season (or the majority of it) for many sports occurs during either the fall or spring semester. You may want to take advantage of a more flexible off-season schedule by taking more academically demanding classes and those that would otherwise conflict with their practice schedule.

Keeping Your Eye on the Prize

Student athletes invest countless hours in their chosen sport. Yet, the vast majority will graduate and pursue a career outside athletics. On average, barely 2% of college student athletes move up to professional leagues after NCAA competition.

Academics are an integral part of being a successful student athlete. Choosing a degree program you’re passionate about and that supports your career goals can help keep you motivated and on track to graduate.

Each team and college may maintain its own standards for GPA requirements to compete, but the NCAA sets minimum requirements too. Division I and Division II athletes are required to meet initial eligibility criteria set by the NCAA while Division III student-athletes are held to the standards set by the schools they attend.

Just skating by in terms of GPA may allow you to compete, but it could hurt your candidacy for internships and jobs after graduation.

Recommended: 12 Ways a College Athlete Can Make Money

Building Relationships With Your Professors and Classmates

This advice could apply to any college student, but student athletes in particular stand to benefit from getting to know their professors and classmates early on in the semester.

To varying degrees, college sports teams travel off-campus for games and competitions, which means student athletes might miss some in-person class time. Meeting with professors at the beginning of the semester can show a commitment to your studies and help hash out any scheduling conflicts for classes and exams.

Also, making friends with classmates can be beneficial for exchanging class notes to cover each other’s absences, as well as forming study groups.

Finding an Accountability Buddy

Student athletes know the importance of teamwork. In addition to pushing each other to greatness at practice and the gym, teammates can be a support system to help achieve your academic goals too. Forging a partnership or study group to hold each other accountable to these goals, on and off the court or field, is one such strategy.

For starters, who can better relate to your experience and challenges balancing athletics and academics than a teammate? Together, you and your accountability buddy can capitalize on downtime on the road to away games to tackle assignments or plan a study night before a big game to resist the urge to party.

It’s okay if your goals are different. The important thing is that you find an accountability buddy you feel comfortable with and who will help keep you on track.

Recommended: 5 Ways to Start Preparing For College

Prioritizing Health and Wellness

Both academics and sports can be demanding, and taking them on simultaneously requires serious stamina. Prioritizing physical and mental health by eating well, getting enough sleep, and finding ways to destress can help prevent burnout and stay sane. It’s okay to slip up every now and then, but creating a plan that you can stick to could make a difference in succeeding as a student athlete.

Recommended: What Is College Like?

It’s Okay to Ask for Help

Many college students deal with stress between exams and assignments. For college student athletes, the pressure to succeed athletically and academically can be a lot to handle.

There is no shame in asking for help, and the sooner the better. College tutors can assist with everything from proofreading essays to prepping for a chemistry test. Approaching professors early with any concerns could also help with extra credit opportunities or a chance to redo an assignment.

Recommended: The Ultimate Guide to Studying in College

What About Redshirting?

For Division I athletes, the NCAA regulation grants college student athletes a span of five years to compete in four years of athletic competition. For Division II and Division III students there is a 10-semester, or 15-quarter clock. This means that student athletes may take a year off from competing ― a practice known as redshirting ― as long as they continue taking coursework and meet other eligibility requirements.

Traditionally, redshirting is applied to allow students athletes more time to develop or recover from a significant injury. However, student athletes may be able to use redshirting to their advantage in terms of coursework.

Redshirting may allow students to take a more manageable course load by stretching their degree over ten semesters instead of eight. Alternatively, it can provide extra time to complete both a bachelor’s and graduate degree in one go.

Keep in mind that redshirting guidelines vary by division. For instance, Division I and II athletes are permitted to practice with their team during their redshirt season, whereas Division III athletes may not.

Paying for College

College is a big investment, but fortunately there are options for funding education. Financial aid, grants, work-study programs, and scholarships may be enough to pay for all or a portion of tuition and room and board.

Athletic Scholarships

There have usually been some full-ride and partial athletic scholarships available to Division I and II student athletes. Athletics classified as headcount sports offered full ride scholarships to a certain number of athletes per team, whereas equivalency sports traditionally extend partial scholarships.

However, as of the 2025-26 academic year, that has changed. The NCAA is transitioning away from the head count scholarship model, meaning all sports will effectively become equivalency sports. The NCAA explains that “this change allows coaches to offer a mix of full and partial scholarships, rather than being limited to full scholarships in certain sports.” Some sports may have historically been considered head count sports, like men’s and women’s basketball, women’s volleyball, women’s tennis, and women’s gymnastics, the new rules have eliminated these distinctions.

Recommended: Finding Free Money for College

Student Loans

In the event that scholarships, grants, and financial aid are not enough to cover tuition and living expenses, student athletes can take out student loans to help them cover the difference.

Federal student loans may be subsidized, which means interest won’t start to accrue until six months after you graduate, or they may be unsubsidized, which means interest begins accruing right away. Either way, you don’t have to start making payments until six months after graduation. Federal loans come with a fixed interest rate set by the government and don’t require a credit check. Filling out the FAFSA can be a critical first step to obtaining these loans.

If those do not cover your costs, you may also consider private student loans.

Private student loans are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. These loans do require a credit check and, generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind, though, that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment plans and deferment — that automatically come with federal student loans.

The Takeaway

Student athletes have a lot to juggle in college, between academics and athletics. It can be wise for them to plan their schedules to accommodate both pursuits, find an accountability partner, and ask for help if they are feeling overwhelmed. It’s also important to line up financing for college, since not all student athletes will get sports-related scholarships. That’s where federal and/or private student loans can help.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

How to balance academics and athletics?

To balance academics and athletics as a student who plays a sport can be a challenge. Staying organized, having an accountability buddy, connecting with professors and coaches, and knowing when to ask for help are all important to staying on top of your dual pursuits.

How do college sports affect athletics?

There is some evidence that college sports can help a student perform better academically in terms of problem solving, creativity, and memory.

Why can student athletes struggle with grades?

Student athletes may struggle with grades since their sport takes up significant time that might otherwise be spent studying for their academic classes. Training sessions and practices, as well as games, can all eat up a student’s available time, causing them to struggle with grades.

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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOISL-Q325-107

Being a first-generation college student is something to be proud of, but it can also be nerve-racking. There might be high expectations that come with being the first in the family to attend school that add to the normal stress of attending college. On top of that, there’s the fact that, if nobody else in the family has done it yet, there are no family members to give advice or provide guidance.

Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to not only survive but thrive as a first-generation college student. Below are some strategies that can help you prepare for college and manage the pressure of being the first in your family to have this opportunity.

Challenges of Being a First-Generation Student

What exactly is a first-generation college student? Being a first-generation college student means the student’s parents either did not earn a college degree or did not go to college at all. Since their parents may not understand much of the college experience, these students are embarking on a somewhat unknown path, which can lead to challenges that other students don’t face.

Lacking this direct source of advice can affect the student’s ability to complete school. It may be more difficult for a first-generation student to adequately prepare for college, both financially and socially. College can be stressful, and without a support system that understands these experiences, the student may find it difficult to continue with school.

Some first-generation students may have other demographic characteristics, such as low economic status or being enrolled in a less-than-full-time course load, that also increase their risk of not finishing college. The usual stressors of college are enough to make it a challenging experience for anybody, but first-gen students may find these factors make it even more difficult.

Another factor that makes being a first-gen student difficult is not understanding the financial aid system. Students whose parents have gone to college may be more familiar with the process of applying for aid and looking for scholarships and grants. If first-generation students are already from a lower socioeconomic background, as well as being the first person in their family to go to college, the financial strain could be more difficult to manage than it is for others.

There are other reasons that first-gen students may have difficulty completing their four-year degrees: They may be less prepared for the rigorous academics at the college level, they could be working full-time jobs, or they could be attending college later in life, after having children.

First-generation college students can still be successful despite these additional difficulties. With the proper preparation and support, they can not only achieve their four-year degrees but also thrive in college.

Thriving in College

If you’re a first-generation student looking to make the most of your college years, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Study Tips

If you want to crush your academics, instead of being crushed by them, you’ll need to develop proper study techniques. The lessons will be more difficult in college, and students have to depend more on their own self-discipline than they did in high school. If it’s been a while since you have been in school, implementing good techniques and habits can help you adjust to the work again.

Here are some study tips that may help first-generation students adapt to college-level learning:

•   Pick a consistent study location, one that is comfortable and free of distractions. Once you’ve found the perfect spot, you might consider studying there consistently.
•   Write down deadlines and important dates in a planner — this may help prevent you from feeling overwhelmed and being caught by surprise when deadlines are approaching.
•   Schedule consistent study times instead of cramming the night before an exam. This has been proven to be a better method of remembering subjects for the long term.
•   Find a study group; this can make it easier to learn more difficult material.
•   Review notes each day. This repetition can help you remember them.
•   If you’re struggling with a certain class, ask professors for help during their office hours or seek out available tutoring services on campus.

Recommended: 5 Ways to Start Preparing For College

Building Relationships

The connections you make while in college can become invaluable after graduation. Getting to know professors and classmates can not only provide a source of social support during the stressful college years but may also provide opportunities for future networking.

Most professors will have regular office hours when they’re available to meet with students. These office hours can be used to talk about class material, get to know your professor better, or get their advice on your future. Usually, professors are happy to help students excel in class or discover the next steps in their journey.

Taking the time to get to know your classmates is also beneficial. When students make connections in class this helps give them support. Classmates can take notes for each other when someone needs to miss class, they can study together, and assist each other in the post-graduation job hunt.

Making friends with classmates will not only provide academic support, but emotional support, too. Nobody understands what a college student is going through as well as another college student.

Staying Organized

Students who are juggling work, family, and school may feel overwhelmed by their college workload. Planning ahead and staying organized can help you stay successful in school despite these extra responsibilities.

Like all students, first-gen students might benefit from keeping a planner and scheduling study sessions ahead of time so they don’t fall into the trap of ineffective, last-minute cram sessions.

Staying ahead of schedule can also help in case other problems arise. Students who are parents might have child-related reasons for missing a class, but if they have assignments started ahead of time and are already on top of their study schedule, the absence will be less likely to negatively impact their grades.

Paying for College

College costs are an important piece of attending college, and it’s good to start planning as soon as possible. First-generation students may not have any immediate family members who have been through the process, possibly making information on how to pay for college more difficult to come by. There are a variety of ways students can finance college, including grants, loans, and scholarships.

The first step to financing your college education is filling out the FAFSA® (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This application will determine your eligibility to receive federal aid for college, which includes scholarships, grants, work-study, and federal student loans. Federal grants usually don’t need to be repaid, but federal loans generally do.

Students must be able to demonstrate financial need to receive most federal aid, along with meeting other eligibility requirements .

If you aren’t eligible for federal aid, or if the federal aid you receive isn’t enough to cover all of your costs, you might also consider applying for private scholarships, which are available through a variety of sources, including schools, community organizations, and corporations. Eligibility varies for each one. Some scholarships are need-based, whereas some are merit-based. There are also scholarships available specifically for first-generation college students.

Another option available for financing college is private student loans. These are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. Generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind, though, that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment and deferment or forbearance — that automatically come with federal student loans

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

What should you know as a first-generation college student?

It can be important for first-generation college students to understand what sort of academic support, from professors’ office hours to extra help, is available, as well as to investigate and use financial aid offerings. Finding friends and joining activities to feel connected to the college experience can be valuable, too.

What do first-generation college students struggle with?

First-generation students can struggle with imposter syndrome (feeling as if they don’t truly deserve to be or belong on campus), financial obligations, and the stress of integrating with campus life and keeping up with their classes.

What is a disadvantage of being a first-gen college student?

First-generation students may lack as deep an educational background, as high a GPA, and as strong a sense of confidence as their peers who have college-educated parents, according to research.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.