Graduation success stories: Caroline, Erika and Hugo
Three International Student-Athletes' Academic and Athletic Achievements
We talked with some of this year’s graduates to hear about their experiences, biggest takeaways, and what comes next after college. Their stories highlight the opportunities, challenges, and personal growth that come with being a student-athlete in the U.S.
After years of balancing academics and athletics, they’ve reached an exciting milestone and are ready for the next chapter. Explore this year’s graduate stories and discover where their student-athlete journeys have taken them.
Caroline Jensen
Texas A&M International University | NCAA DII | Soccer
Caroline Jensen from Denmark went to Texas A&M International University in Texas to play soccer and study Business Administration with a concentration in Management.
Caroline balanced the demands of NCAA Division II soccer with her studies, earning Honors Roll recognition all four years while also serving as team captain during her senior season.
After graduation, Caroline hopes to stay in Texas and build a career in business sales or business development, with Austin being her ideal destination to begin her professional journey.
Caroline says the best part of being a student-athlete was being surrounded by people who shared the same passion: “You get to be around people who love the sport as much as you do.”
Lastly, her advice for future student-athletes is to embrace every opportunity that comes your way. “Be open to new things and make the most of the resources available to you.”
Hugo Zadig
Luther College | NCAA DIII | Soccer
Hugo Zadig from Stockholm, Sweden went to Luther College in Iowa to play soccer and study Economics.
Hugo kept a strong GPA throughout his time at Luther while competing in NCAA Division III soccer. Four years of early mornings, big games, and hard study later – he’s ready to start his next chapter!
This summer, Hugo is heading to Germany for an internship before starting grad school in the fall. He’s applied to some of Europe’s top business schools, including Lund University, Copenhagen Business School, and the University of Mannheim.
For Hugo, the best part of being a student-athlete was getting to do two things he cares about at once: “You get to combine an education with something you love – and the skills you develop along the way.”
His advice to anyone thinking about it? “Research the schools properly and evaluate your options.”
Erika Lindström
Averett University | NCAA DIII | Soccer
Erika Lindström from Sweden chose Averett University in Virginia, where she combined NCAA Division III women’s soccer with a degree in Business Administration.
Erika earned the Top GPA Sophomore Female Athlete award, received the Women’s Soccer Service Award, and became a member of the honor societies Alpha Chi, Sigma Beta Delta, and Chi Alpha Sigma.
This fall, Erika is taking the next step by moving to Gothenburg. She’s applied for master’s programs in Management and Entrepreneurship at the University of Gothenburg and is excited to continue building a career in leadership, management, or HR.
For Erika, one of the biggest highlights of the student-athlete experience was how quickly the team became a second family: “You get to do what you love while earning a great degree, and having a team around you makes starting a new life in the U.S. so much easier.”
If she could give one piece of advice to future student-athletes, it would be to embrace the adventure. “Go for it! You’ll experience a new culture, meet incredible people, and grow in ways you never expected. The beginning can be challenging, but once you settle in, it’s an unforgettable journey.”
Erika says studying and competing in the U.S. has been one of the most rewarding experiences of her life – one that has prepared her for the exciting opportunities still to come.
The Next Success Story Could Be Yours
Caroline, Erika and Hugo are graduated student-athletes who never looked back. By combining sport and education in the U.S., they opened doors they never thought possible.
Could you be next? Start with our free evaluation and find out! Our team is ready to show you what’s out there and help you make it happen.
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About the author
Paulina Romo
Paulina Romo, Communications Manager at Keystone Sports, holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration and has a background in equestrian sports, specializing in dressage. Shaped by international experience gained from work and studies in Sweden, South Korea, Germany, and Spain, Paulina brings a diverse blend of marketing skills and perspectives to her role.
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