GINA STEINER
| Sport | Soccer |
| Position | Midfield |
| University | University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Fairleigh Dickinson University |
| Major | Bachelor and Masters in Business Administration and Marketing |
| Sport | Soccer |
| Position | Midfield |
| University | University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Fairleigh Dickinson University |
| Major | Bachelor and Masters in Business Administration and Marketing |
I decided to play college soccer because I saw it as the perfect opportunity to combine my education with sports. In Germany, that usually only works with distance learning. In the USA, however, everything is professionally coordinated down to the smallest detail.
A typical day as a student-athlete looked like this for me: Most of the time we had normal training on the court or in the gym in the morning. Before that, we always had the opportunity to get treatment from physios. For the most part, we had 2-3 physios who were responsible for one team. That was great, no one was shortchanged and everyone could prepare for training in perfect conditions. After the early morning session, I often had uni.
The great thing is that I only needed 5-10 minutes by bike to get there, because the distances were very short, despite the large campus. Afterwards, I always had the opportunity to go to the cafeteria with my friends or cook for myself. The afternoon was usually packed with classes and training. In the evening, you could always take it easy (chill with friends, watch movies, go to the pool, etc.).
My academic experience as a Student-Athlete was very good. As a Freshman, I had a mentor who always took care of me. International athletes from older classes are often assigned to an international freshman to share their experiences and assist the freshman. Especially in the beginning, this was great because it made a lot of things easier for me. In addition, each team had an athletic advisor with whom they met once a week during the first year to discuss academic performance.
In the first year, all freshmen have to spend eight hours a week in the study hall. There were computers there that you could use when you wanted. If someone had problems in a subject, you could easily request tutoring for free. Usually there are also English teachers who support you especially in the beginning when you are not yet so familiar with English.
The training and facilities are very professional. The training was always planned from start to finish. I had a head coach and two assistant coaches. First we activated with bands before going to running school. After sprints, it was on to passing drills and then different types of games.
The preparation for the games was also great! You could do regenerative measures in the training room and get treated by the physios. In addition, one had access to protein shakes, snacks and water.
The training and facilities are very professional. The training was always planned from start to finish. I had a head coach and two assistant coaches. First we activated with bands before going to running school. After sprints, it was on to passing drills and then different types of games.
The preparation for the games was also great! You could do regenerative measures in the training room and get treated by the physios. In addition, one had access to protein shakes, snacks and water.
Train daily at the highest level and compete with up-and-coming athletes from around the world.
The USA offers you the best universities in the world: the academic content and methods are first-class and internationally recognized.
Take advantage of this unique opportunity to develop personally in a short period of time: gain experience with other cultures and learn perfect English.
One thing is for sure: You will stand out positively for future employers with your international education.
As I said, we always had access to one or more physios. They always took a lot of time and did everything they could to make sure we were best prepared for the games. If someone was injured in the game or training, one of the physios was right there to treat it. If a doctor was needed, the physio would set everything in motion so that he could take a look at the injury as quickly as possible.
Looking back on my time at College Review, all I can say is that I had the best time of my life. I had the privilege of living in Texas for four years and New York for one year on a full scholarship. I got to play at the highest college level, Division 1, and celebrate many successes as a team and individually. At the same time, I completed my Bachelor of Business Administration Marketing, a minor in Graphic Design, and my Master of Business Administration Marketing with top grades.
My time in the U.S. not only helped me grow in my education and as an athlete, it also helped me grow as a person and face challenges. I met so many great people from all over the world and made friendships that I will have for a lifetime. I got to visit a total of 23 states, which is incredible. The U.S. is full of positive surprises and experiences and I am infinitely grateful that I was able to have this experience.
So I can only recommend everyone to also make this experience. It scares many people to take this big step, but I can only say that it can only enrich you. Not only do you learn fluent English, which allows you to work in many international companies around the world, but you also learn to accept and overcome challenges. You have the opportunity to learn about other cultures and change your world view.
