Making the Grade on the Road: How College Athletes Can Succeed While Missing Classes

College athletes face a unique challenge: balancing their academic responsibilities with the demands of travel for competitions. While sports provide incredible opportunities, the frequent absences from class can disrupt study routines and make staying on top of coursework difficult. Today, we’re going to show you how to stay academically successful while also representing your school on the field.

Communicate Early and Often with Professors

One of the most critical steps college athletes can take is establishing a strong line of communication with their professors at the start of the semester. By outlining your travel schedule early on, you demonstrate responsibility and commitment to staying engaged with the coursework.

You may contact your professors via email or by visiting during office hours to inform them about your schedule. Many professors are willing to offer accommodations, such as recording lectures or extending deadlines, especially when students take the initiative to communicate early. Here is an example of a quick email to help you get started:

“Hi Professor [Last Name], I’m on the [Name of sport] team and will miss classes on [Dates]. I’d love to discuss how I can stay on track and meet all deadlines."

Use Technology to Stay Connected

Thanks to advances in technology, staying caught up while traveling has never been easier. Virtual meeting platforms and digital study tools can help bridge the gap when you’re away from campus. If your professors allow, join classes via Zoom or other virtual meeting platforms, or review recorded sessions.

Most colleges and universities use learning management systems (LMS) like Blackboard. These platforms allow professors to upload assignments, lectures, and other important information. Make use of your school’s LMS when you’re traveling, as it will help you stay current with your coursework.

Speak with Your Academic Advisor

Academic advisors can be a lifeline for student athletes. They can help craft a schedule that minimizes conflicts between classes and athletic obligations. Additionally, advisors often serve as advocates, communicating with faculty on behalf of student athletes.

Academic advisors are well-versed in university policies and can guide you through any alternative methods your school offers for exams or projects. This is just another one of the many reasons why you should seek to build a strong relationship with your advisor.

Leverage Peer Networks and Study Groups

When you miss class, it’s easy to feel isolated from your peers and the learning process. Building strong relationships with classmates can help you stay in the loop. If you haven’t already, consider joining a study group. Being a part of a study group ensures you have access to shared notes and can discuss key topics while you’re away.

You may also ask a trusted classmate for their notes from lectures you’ve missed. If you’re going to rely on your classmates to help you when you’re away from campus, it’s important to reciprocate by sharing notes or helping with group assignments when you’re back.

Prioritize Time Management

Travel days can be exhausting, but they often include downtime, whether it’s during flights, bus rides, or hotel stays. Use this time productively and consider creating a study schedule for your travel days. To help you keep track, you can try using project management software like Trello or Monday.com.

In order to make things more manageable while you’re away, break tasks down into smaller chunks. Do your best to avoid cramming, as it will be more difficult to absorb and retain information if you’re rushed. Regular, shorter study sessions are more effective, and you won’t feel stressed from going back and forth between your coursework and your sports obligations.

Prepare for Exams and Assignments in Advance

Travel often coincides with major deadlines like midterms or project submissions, and the key to staying on track is proactive preparation. Begin studying or working on assignments as soon as they’re announced, and if a test falls on a travel day don’t wait—speak with your professor right away and arrange to take it early or remotely if possible.

Maintain a Healthy Work/Life Balance

The demands of sports and academics can be overwhelming, but self-care is essential to your long-term success. Do your best to maintain a nutritious diet and stay hydrated, even while traveling. Along with this, constant travel can disrupt your sleeping schedule, so make sure you’re getting adequate rest.

With all your obligations taking up so much time, it’s also important to remember to engage with your hobbies. This will help you to feel fulfilled even when things get hectic. Remember, a healthy body supports a sharp mind, which is crucial for both athletic and academic success.

Balancing athletics and academics requires discipline, resilience, and support. By keeping communication open with your professors and using your time effectively, you’ll excel in both areas. It’s not about just staying eligible to play; it’s about building skills that will serve you well long after your playing days are over.