Dreaming of playing college sports? Being a student-athlete can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also demands serious time management, strong communication, and self-discipline. In a recent episode of Countdown to College, Jason spoke with Katie Ruge, a senior on the women’s golf team at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, about what her life as a college student-athlete is really like. From recruiting to transferring, Katie shared practical advice for students balancing academics and athletics.
What should student athletes expect?
One of the biggest surprises for Katie was the time commitment. Student-athletes can spend up to 20 hours a week on their sport during the season, plus additional time in the offseason. Katie’s days often start early with workouts, followed by classes, practice, and homework. It’s a demanding schedule, but for students who enjoy structure, it can be incredibly rewarding.
How is college athletics different from high school sports?
The biggest change is the shift from structure to independence. In high school, schedules are set, but in college, student-athletes must learn to manage their time. While practices are structured, academics require more responsibility outside the classroom. Katie emphasizes that time management and communication are essential skills for success.
How does the college athletic recruiting process work?
The recruitment process can feel intimidating, but Katie’s advice is simple: be proactive. Reach out to coaches, share your stats, and stay in contact. Just as important, be honest about what you want in a college experience.
Katie suggests asking yourself:
- Do you want to stay close to home?
- How much time do you want to dedicate to your sport?
- At what level do you want to compete?
- Would you still choose this school without your sport?
She also stresses the importance of evaluating team culture by connecting with current athletes.
Is it okay to transfer as a college athlete?
Does transferring mean you made the wrong choice? Katie transferred after her sophomore year and realized it wasn’t about giving up, but about finding a better fit. You can’t fully know what a school or team will feel like until you’re living it, and it’s normal for your goals and priorities to change along the way. Choosing to transfer isn’t a step backward; it’s a step toward a better fit and a college experience that works for you.
Do college athletes get academic and mental health support?
Balancing academics and athletics is demanding, which is why support is essential. Katie explains that while not every professor fully understands the demands of college sports, most are supportive when students communicate early and often. Athletic departments also provide academic and mental health resources that help student-athletes stay on track. With the right support system in place, managing obligations becomes much more achievable.
Should you play a sport in college?
Is playing a sport in college worth it? For many students, the answer is yes, but it requires commitment and balance. College athletics push you to grow, stay disciplined, and build strong relationships, all while managing a full academic schedule. It’s not always easy, but for those willing to put in the effort, it can be one of the most rewarding parts of the college experience and a key part of your personal and academic growth.
March 24, 2026 · Season 2 · Episode 34
What It's Really Like to Be a Student Athlete
By Katie Ruge & Gage
What’s it really like to be a college athlete? 👀🏌️♀️⛳️ Early lifts, long practices, and somehow still getting your homework done. In this episode, Jason talks with UNO senior and women’s golfer Katie Ruge about balancing school, sports, and everything in between. Start your college journey 👉 https://EducationQuest.org