Making the Jump: Tips for Student-Athletes Entering College
Starting college can be an overwhelming change. Starting college as a student-athlete can be even more overwhelming. As a freshman swimmer, you are about to juggle harder practices, tougher competition, and a brand-new lifestyle. It can feel like a lot at first, but it’s also the start of one of the most rewarding times of your life.
To help make the transition smoother, here’s some advice every incoming college swimmer should keep in mind.
Respect the Transition
No matter how prepared you think you are, college swimming will push you to a new level. Practices are longer, weights are heavier, and the competition is stronger. Don’t be surprised if it feels like a shock at first.
A lot of freshmen may experience a dip in performance while adjusting to new training loads. That’s normal. The key is to stay patient and keep working. Your coaches recruited you for a reason. Trust that you belong and focus on steady progress instead of comparing yourself to upperclassmen who already have years in the program.
Manage Your Time Before It Manages You
The jump in workload is real. Early mornings, double practices, travel weekends, and full course loads can make it feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day. The swimmers who handle this best are the ones who stay organized.
Use a planner or calendar app and stick with it. Try to stay ahead on assignments so dual-meet weekends don’t catch you off guard. And don’t neglect sleep. Getting enough rest is one of the most underrated parts of college swimming, and it will make a huge difference in how you feel both in practice and in the classroom.
Time management doesn’t mean cutting out fun. It means creating structure so you can enjoy the fun without the stress of falling behind.
Build Relationships with Your Team
College swimming is as much about people as it is about performance. Some of your best memories won’t come from the races, but from the moments with your teammates.
As a freshman, make the effort to connect. Ask upperclassmen questions, learn from their experiences, and spend time with the team outside of practice. Be the kind of teammate who cheers for others, shows up consistently, and supports everyone around them. Teams thrive on culture, and your energy can make a difference.
Take Care of Yourself Outside the Pool
The freedom of college is exciting, but it also comes with new challenges. Late nights, dining hall food, and stress can sneak up on you if you’re not careful.
Fuel your body with balanced meals, drink plenty of water, and make recovery a priority. Stretching, rolling out, and consistent sleep are not just extras; they are what keep you healthy and performing well. Think of your body as your most important piece of equipment.
Learn to Speak Up
This one took me a while. Your coaches and professors want to help, but they can’t if you don’t communicate. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, struggling with classes, or dealing with an injury, let people know.
Coaches respect athletes who ask questions and take responsibility for their needs. Professors are usually willing to work with student-athletes who show effort and communicate early. And leaning on your teammates can be a huge source of support.
Speaking up is not a weakness. It’s a skill that will carry you far beyond swimming.
Keep Perspective
It’s easy to get caught up in best times, team rankings, or grades, but remember the bigger picture. College swimming is about building discipline, friendships, and memories that last a lifetime.
Celebrate the small wins, enjoy the team traditions, and let yourself laugh along the way. Years from now, you’ll remember the bus rides, the training trips, and the bond with teammates just as much if not more than the races themselves.
Final Thoughts
Freshman year will test you, but it will also shape you in ways you’ll appreciate long after your swimming career ends. Go in with patience, determination, and an open mind. The journey is not always easy, but it’s worth it.
You’ve earned this opportunity. Now it’s time to dive in and make the most of it.
