Unsigned Seniors - Breaking Through Decision Paralysis
It’s early April, and many senior student-athletes have already made college commitments. However, some unsigned seniors may still be evaluating their options even this late in the game! If you are in this situation, I feel your pain.
You might still be considering your options if:
You were recruited and admitted to multiple NCAA Division III schools but haven’t committed yet
You were recruited in the winter or early spring of your senior year
You are considering your walk-on options at schools where you were admitted
The stress and uncertainty about making the right choice (or avoiding the wrong choice) can cause analysis paralysis. Here are a few tips to help you make an informed choice that is right for you.
You probably have a list of 2-3 of your favorite schools that you are comparing. Create a chart that lists your top 5 criteria under the following categories: Athletics, Academics, Financial, and Other. You don’t have to consider everything. Just focus on the most important factors that will help you compare the opportunities and make a decision.
Here are a few things to consider. Rank each criterion or rank the whole category as it relates to you and your wants/needs for each college (1 = Not a good fit, 3 = OK fit, or 5 = Great fit). At the end of this exercise, the school with the highest score should be the best fit for you.
Athletics
Do you have to try out, or have you already been offered a roster spot?
Will you get playing time? How much? Which position? Importance to you?
Do you have a chance to become a starter? When? Importance to you?
What did you think of the coach? Do you like his/her coaching style? Can he/she help you develop into a better player?
What did you think of the team? Does your skill level match the players in your position?
Other considerations: facilities, location, travel to and from practice, summer expectations, etc.
Academics
What is your major?
Look at the curriculum for your major. Do you feel inspired to succeed in this program?
Learning opportunities: Can you participate in study abroad, co-op, or internships? Do you care about these opportunities?
Can you balance your athletic and academic commitments at this school?
Financial
What is the Cost of Attendance (total price including tuition, fees, housing, meals, books/supplies, travel, and misc expenses)?
Were you offered a scholarship, grant, or other discount? How much?
Were you offered other special programs (honors college, locked tuition for four years, etc.)?
What is the net price (Cost of Attendance - Financial Aid (not including loans))? Is this affordable for your family?
What are your chances of graduating in 4 years?
What are your chances of earning an athletic scholarship in future years?
Other Considerations
Do you feel like you can easily make friends with the students attending this school?
Does the school offer a social life that will make you happy?
Do you like the location? Is the campus safe?
Quarter vs. Semester system? Does it matter?
What are the job offer or graduate school rates for graduating seniors?
What are the housing options over the four years?
Do you need a car at school?
If you are considering your walk-on options, contact the coach at each school to find out when he/she holds tryouts. Be realistic about your chance of earning a roster spot if the decision to try out is an important factor for your choice of schools.
If the school is in the NCAA Division I or II and you are offered a spot on the roster after a tryout, you must complete the NCAA Eligibility Center process.