College in the USA
College in the USA is a fundamental part of American culture. There is so much to learn about and take on board! Here, we’ll take you through some of the key components that make up daily life at College in the USA.
College in the USA differs significantly from university life in the UK, especially if you’re a student-athlete!
Most notable differences include the degree course structure, a multi-billion dollar College sports industry and a proud, tight-knit community on each and every campus where individuals can excel in the classroom and on the sports field.
WHERE WOULD I LIVE?
You will be provided with accommodation, which will be on campus in dormitories in your first year. As you move through the years, you may get the chance to be in an apartment with friends off campus if preferred, however there will always be options on campus. Read more on our blog about Accommodation at College.
It’s worth noting that a College in the USA can consist of anywhere between 1,000 – 70,000 students! You can just imagine how big some College campuses need to be… Some are so huge that the campus is like a small town itself, whereas smaller campuses can feel more of a close, family community. The size of campus you would prefer is something to consider!
Student accommodation (dorm room) at Santa Clara University, California
WHERE WOULD I EAT?
There will be at least one main cafeteria/canteen on campus, often there will be multiple places to choose from when it comes to food time. As a student, you will be on a meal-plan with a card that enables you to get your three meals per day – plus a few snacks of course!
Dining facilities at Northwestern University
HOW MUCH TIME WOULD I SPEND IN CLASS?
Class attendance is incredibly important in the US college education system. You will have a class schedule mapped out by an academic adviser who will help guide you along. As a student-athlete, your coaches will emphasise the importance of going to classes and maintaining good grades. Remember, you will be a student-athlete (student comes first!) Most students will have between 2 – 4 hours of classes per day, with some more time spent on homework/assignments in the evenings.
Students in class
ATHLETICS
US College sport is a gigantic industry. Games are broadcasted on national television and widely followed. The athletes and teams are a focal point on campus. Large crowds gather to watch them take on conference rivals. In sports such as American Football and Basketball, stadium crowds can exceed 100,000 people! As a student-athlete, you represent your College and compete with pride as your classmates and local community cheer you on.
Purdue University Basketball game
FACILITIES AND SUPPORT
College sports facilities are outstanding and on par with facilities used by many professional organisations around the world.
Student-athletes will often have access to their own fully equipped, state-of-the-art gym. They receive training, support and guidance from Strength and Conditioning coaches, Nutritionists, Doctors, Academic Advisers and Athletic Trainers (Physiotherapists) in addition to the full time coaching staff in charge of the team. These dedicated people are there exclusively to help you develop and reach your highest potential.
Check out our blog on A Day in the Life of a College Athlete!
University of Florida campus