What I Wish I Knew Before my Student-Athlete Journey
Advice from a D1 Swimmer for International Student-Athletes
Helena Robla, Division I swimmer and journalism student at Northern Arizona University, shares the lessons she learned over the past four years. Whether you’re prepping for your college sports journey or already living it, her insights might save you some headaches (and maybe even make your experience a little smoother).
Last month I had my last college dual meet. It feels unreal to think that it has been almost four years since I first came to the United States. I have learned a lot since then, and although this is part of the journey, there are a few things I would tell my younger self if I had the chance. Here are some things I wish I had known before starting my college journey.
Make connections with athletes from other sports
It’s easy to stick with your own team, but branching out and making friends with athletes from other sports can be incredibly beneficial. They understand the demands of being a student-athlete, but they come from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Interacting with athletes outside of your sport can help you see challenges from a new angle, learn different approaches to training and time management, and even form friendships that extend beyond athletics. The student-athlete community is tight-knit, and you may be surprised at how much you can learn from those who compete in completely different disciplines. You’ll also make some great friends!
Be honest with your coaches
Your coaches are there to guide and support you, but the most important thing to remember is that no one knows you better than you do. If something doesn’t feel right—whether it has to do with training, recovery needs, or mental well-being—let them know. Communication is key in any athlete-coach relationship, and being open about your struggles or concerns will help them tailor their guidance to fit your needs. Coaches appreciate honesty and effort, and they want you to succeed just as much as you do. Trust and respect their experience but also trust yourself.
Build relationships with your professors
It may seem intimidating at first, but getting to know your professors can make a big difference in your academic experience. Introduce yourself on the first day of class and let them know that you are a student-athlete – and that you are from another country. Not only will this help them understand your situation, but it will also make it easier to communicate if you ever need to miss class due to competition or training. Even if your campus seems huge, chances are you will have the same professors for more than one class. Building a good relationship early on can lead to more engaging class discussions, better academic support, and even potential mentorship. You never know when you might need a letter of recommendation, career advice, or guidance beyond the classroom.
Use the resources on campus
They are there for a reason! Whether it’s tutoring centers, writing labs, academic advisors, or mental health services, there is so much support available to help you succeed. As a student-athlete, balancing athletics and academics can be overwhelming, and taking advantage of these resources can help ease the burden. Many campuses also offer specialized support for international students, including cultural organizations, language assistance, and networking opportunities. Finding a community where you feel understood and supported can make the transition to college life much smoother.
Ask for help
Being a student is challenging. Being an athlete adds another layer of difficulty. Being away from home can make it even harder. There will be times when it feels overwhelming, but the most important thing to remember is that you don’t have to do it alone. There are so many people who are willing to help you with anything you might be going through, big or small –teammates, coaches, advisors, friends, professors– but they won’t know you need help unless you ask. Whether you’re struggling with homesickness, academics, mental health, or balancing responsibilities, reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. You’re surrounded by people who care about you and want to see you succeed, so don’t hesitate to lean on them when you need to.
Being a student-athlete in college will shape you in ways you can’t yet imagine. The lessons you learn will stay with you long after your last competition. Enjoy the ride, because it goes by faster than you think!
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