From Student-Athlete to Graduate Student: What Skills Have Served Me Best

Over the past 4 years, I competed as a Division I soccer player at Cleveland State University while I pursued my undergraduate degree. I balanced long weeks of training, games, and travel along with a full course load. Every day was structured and filled with tasks I needed to complete in order to succeed on and off the field. 

Although I am no longer competing on the soccer field, I have found that many of the skills that I had developed as a student athlete are directly transferable to my life as a Fisher graduate student in the Macc program at The Ohio State University. Here are the top three skills that I’ve found most valuable in helping me succeed as a Macc student: 

1. Time Management: The most applicable skill for me has been the ability to manage my time effectively. While my days are not as rigidly planned out as they were during my time as a student athlete, the ability to map out my schedule and prioritize tasks, from completing class assignments to finding time to exercise, is extremely important in the MAcc program. Balancing multiple responsibilities while limiting procrastination has made a significant difference in my performance. 
    
2. Teamwork: Another skill I’ve found useful in the MAcc program is teamwork. This one came as a bit of a surprise, especially given the stereotype of accountants being introverted and having a “put your head down and work” mindset. However, many MAcc courses involve collaborative projects and group assignments. Being able to communicate effectively, remain reliable in completing tasks on time, and contribute efficiently in a team setting is essential. As a former student-athlete working toward shared goals every day, this skill transitioned naturally into the classroom. 
    
3. Goal Setting: Lastly, goal setting has been critical. Setting goals, whether big or small, provides direction and something to consistently work towards. Small wins throughout the day or week build momentum and slowly snowball into larger achievements. These goals do not have to be solely academic either. Setting and completing small daily habits or tasks, such as waking up earlier or exercising, translates into stronger academic performance as well. Setting goals as both an athlete and now as a graduate student assists me in staying focused and serves as a reminder of what I am working toward. 

These three skills I developed and honed as a former student athlete have helped me the most in my everyday life as a MAcc student. However, you do not need to be a former athlete to develop or incorporate these traits into your routine. What works for me may look completely different in your own MAcc journey. What matters most is intentionally building habits and skills that will benefit you and your future career.