By Quentin Revillard/ Staff Writer

As graduation approaches, senior student-athletes at Missouri Valley College are preparing for a major transition, one that shifts their focus from competition to careers and life beyond sports. While some may have clear plans, others are still figuring out their next step, but both students and staff say the experience of being an athlete plays a key role in that transition.

As their college careers come to an end, many athletes face a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Without the structure of daily practices, workouts and competitions, the adjustment can be challenging.

Paul Troth, Executive Director of Student Success, said there is no single path for student-athletes after graduation. Most move on to graduate school or enter the workforce, while only a small number continue their athletic careers.

“The majority of college athletes…are going on to grad school or the workforce,” Troth said. “A very, very tiny fraction may get an opportunity to play their sport beyond.”

Troth said one of the biggest challenges athletes face is losing the structure that has defined their daily routine for years.

“When you’re a student-athlete, you have a very strict regimen,” he said. “Not having all that structure can be a little bit disorienting.”

Despite that adjustment, Troth believes athletes are well prepared for life after college because of the skills they develop through competition.

“It’s competition…you’re stepping up, putting in the work,” Troth said. “There are a lot of qualities that carry directly over to life.”

Senior Dominic Hoskin, who competed in golf and esports, said he is planning to stay at Missouri Valley as a graduate assistant while pursuing his MBA. However, he said the process has not been without stress.

“The most stressful part has definitely been the uncertainty of everything,” Hoskin said. “I haven’t got anything confirmed yet.”

Hoskin said being a student-athlete has helped him develop important skills that will benefit him in his career.

“Self-discipline, patience and time management,” he said. “Whenever I don’t have a routine, my performance drops.”

He also said his experience has opened new opportunities and connections.

“It has created connections with people from all over the world,” Hoskin said.

Senior golfer Jules Garret said he feels ready to move on from athletics and begin his professional career after completing his MBA.

“I know it will be hard because I’ve been playing sports for 20 years,” Garret said. “But I’m really excited to work and make money.”

Garret said he views the transition as a new opportunity rather than something to fear.

“I’m more excited than anxious because I know it will be a new challenge,” he said.

He said his background as an athlete has prepared him well for the future and encouraged other students to take advantage of opportunities like internships.

“I really think everyone should do the same,” Garret said.

Troth said feeling uncertain about the future is normal for all students, not just athletes.

“Everybody feels uncertain; that’s normal,” Troth said. “Work hard, persevere and you’ll come out the other side.”

As the job market becomes more competitive, Troth said preparation and adaptability are more important than ever. However, he believes student-athletes have the mindset needed to succeed.