Selma Elverum
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 Selma Elverum, a soccer player from Norway studying at University at Albany, to give a glimpse into her student-athlete experience.
The Student-Athlete Experience 2025: This is what living it really feels like.
My College Experience in 2025
Selma reflects on her student-athlete experience this year. The U.S college context has helped her develop in different aspects. The great combination of athletics and academics challenge student-athletes to build new skills and strengths.
“In 2025, being a student-athlete challenged me to grow in every area of my life. I pushed myself on the field and in the classroom, learned to manage my time efficiently, and grew as both a teammate and a leader as a junior on the team.”
Campus Life in the U.S
One of the biggest parts of the American college experience is campus life. Thanks to the many events, clubs, activities, and organizations, campuses are always full of people.
“Campus life in the U.S. has really added to my college experience. It’s so different from Norway. There are always people walking around campus and there’s always something going on. It’s super easy to meet new people and make friends. Thanks to the way college campuses are in the US, it was super easy to settle in.”
Academic Support for Student-Athletes
Balancing sports commitments with a university degree isn’t easy, therefore, the academic departments at U.S universities help student-athletes manage it. Selma shares her own experience and the support she has received over the years.
“As a student-athlete, I’ve gotten a lot of support from professors and tutors. They’re super understanding about my schedule and are always willing to help me stay on track with my assignments. They also help me to catch up if I miss class because of soccer commitments. It makes a big difference knowing they want me to succeed both in the classroom and on the field.”
Moving to a New Country as a Student-Athlete
Starting life in a new country is always a big adjustment, especially when the culture and everyday interactions feel different from home. However, Selma notes that student-athletes often have an advantage when it comes to adapting.
“Moving to a new country was a big change, but honestly, it’s the best decision I’ve made. Being part of a team made the transition so much easier, everyone was super welcoming from the start. I’ve felt supported the whole way, and it’s helped me adjust quickly and feel at home here.”
Team Culture in the U.S
Joining a college team in the U.S. is about much more than competing. It’s an experience that opens doors to new cultures and perspectives. For many student-athletes, teammates become more than just training partners. Sharing daily routines, challenges, and victories often turns teammates into lifelong friends.
“Being part of a team in the US has been amazing. It has pushed me out of my comfort zone, gave me a way to experience a new culture, and taught me the value of different perspectives. My teammates have supported me, challenged me, and helped me grow both personally and athletically.
My teammates play a huge role in my daily life, both on and off the field. We live together, train together, and support each other through everything. They’ve become my best friends and my second family, which makes the whole experience even more special. These are the types of friendship you keep forever.”
Personal Growth and Independence
For many student-athletes, going to the U.S. is the first time they’ve been far from home. This experience brings new challenges as well as opportunities for growth. Over the past three years, Selma has faced these challenges and now reflects on how much she has grown.
“Since arriving in the U.S., I’ve grown so much personally. Living and studying here has pushed me out of my comfort zone, helped me become more independent, and taught me how to adapt to new situations. I’ve gained a lot of confidence and learned a lot about myself along the way.”
My Advice to other Athletes
Selma shares a last piece of advice for those thinking about becoming a student-athlete in the United States.
“Definitely go for it! Being a student-athlete in the U.S. is an awesome experience. You’ll grow a lot, make amazing friends, and have so many great opportunities. It’s challenging but totally worth it, so keep an open mind and make the most of it. If you do it, and then find out it’s not for you, it’s never too late to go home, and you can at least say you tried.”
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