Eulalia Pascual Biosca
The Student-Athlete Experience 2025: Growth and Passion in Action
The Student-Athlete Experience 2025 is more than just a name—it’s a campaign built on the voices of international student-athletes who live, train, and compete in the U.S. every single day. No one understands what it’s like to be an international student-athlete in 2025 better than someone living it right now.
Train. Study. Compete. Grow.
Through real stories from around the world, we’re showing what it means to give everything to the sport you love, your education, and your future while building a new life thousands of miles from home.
Because it’s not just about matches or titles. It’s about the drive, the sacrifice, the growth, and the community you find along the way. Being a student-athlete in 2025 is demanding but powerful, unforgettable, and an experience you carry with you forever.
We asked Eulalia Pascual, a tennis player from Spain studying at Barton College, to give a glimpse into her student-athlete experience.
The Student-Athlete Experience 2025: This is what living it really feels like.
Life as a Student-Athlete in 2025
Eulalia shares how her experience has been during this year as a student-athlete in America. From combining her studies with the tennis season to taking part in different activities and associations on campus, her journey reflects the challenges and opportunities that come as a student-athlete.
“During the spring semester of 2025, I have had the chance to enjoy a semester full of student-athlete duties: practicing daily, having 6 classes for my double major, being a leader for many organizations in my college, as well as working college-student jobs.
It has been really rewarding as I have gained many experiences in building social relations, meeting new people and discovering my potential in many different situations.”
Lessons Learned Through College Tennis
Eulalia reflects on the values tennis has instilled in her throughout her college years. Competing at this level goes beyond improving athletic skills—it’s about embracing challenges, staying committed, and understanding the importance of teamwork.
“Adaptation has been the key. Being able to stay disciplined and resilient despite the drawbacks is one of the most rewarding things that college sport has taught me. You don’t play for yourself; you play for your team and your commitment in doing full effort in everything you do is really important.”
Life on College Campus
For Eulalia, campus life has been just as impactful as her time on the tennis court. With so many events, clubs, and organizations, US colleges give students the chance to build new skills in practical settings outside the classroom.
“My favorite spot on campus is “center campus”, especially on sunny and warm days. Being able to feel the nature and have little picnics with friends is really nice.
Campus life has allowed me to increase my personal growth by being able to be part of many organizations. Values such as leadership, public relations, empathy or understanding have been keys to perform my duties.”
Academic Support and Personalized Guidance
Alongside her athletic commitments, Eulalia is pursuing a demanding double major in Business Administration and Mass Communication, that reflects both her ambition and curiosity. What makes the experience even more meaningful is the strong academic support she receives on campus.
“In my college students are not a number. Teachers know all their names and value students highly for their efforts and eager to learn. I feel really close with my professors and many of them allow me to growth more than expected in each subject.”
Friendship and Team Bonds
Tennis is typically an individual sport, but in college, players become part of the university team. For many, this can be a big adjustment, yet our students find it incredibly rewarding. Eulalia shares how being part of a team has shaped her college experience.
“My first semester I built relationships thanks to my team. Being in a sports team really helps you to make friendships. My teammates are my second family and are the ones that I live with 24h every day.”
Adapting to a New Culture
Moving to a new country comes with a mix of excitement and challenges. Eulalia tells us about her experience adjusting to life in a new culture and how she keeps in touch with her loved ones at home.
“I consider it challenging but rewarding. Being able to learn more about other cultures is what makes me grow and be a better person. The biggest cultural shock was eating each meal earlier.
I stay in touch with my family and friends through video calls and constant messages. Being aware of the time difference is important.”
Advice for Future Student-Athletes
Eulalia shares her perspective and advice for those considering the student-athlete path in the US.
“Don’t be afraid. Get out of your comfort zone and give yourself an opportunity that can change your life forever.”
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