University of Minnesota Athletics
Choosing the Right College
6/8/2005 12:00:00 AM | Men's Golf
Choosing the Program that is Right for "U"
Collegiate golf is a special experience. I believe there are a few key elements that must be present in order to have the best experience possible. There are three main areas to your student-athlete experience. Each of these three must be present and correctly balanced to produce an ideal experience.
- Academics
- Athletics
- Social/Community Interaction
I believe that we have a successful program for many reasons. The University of Minnesota is a wonderful place to receive a college education. Many of our academic programs rank in the top 25 nationally. We are located in a metropolitan area that provides many diverse opportunities in the areas of employment and recreation. Our athletic department is committed to excellence and provides our team with the necessary support to achieve greatness in many areas. This friendly, easygoing atmosphere of our team provides our athletes with lifelong friendships and leads to TEAM and INDIVIDUAL successes. We are looking for student-athletes that are well rounded and will add to the positive atmosphere of our team.
As you begin to research schools and programs I suggest you keep the above things in mind and ask yourself the following questions.
- Is this a college/university where I can pursue a field of study that will make the most of my talents/strengths?
- What sort of individuals has this program produced? Are they the type of people that I would like to become?
- What type of tournament schedule does the team usually play, and is it the level of competition that will help me to be my best?
- What sorts of academic, athletic, and golf facilities will I have access to?
- Will this program make me a better person and a better golfer?
- What is the overall attitude of the team and how do the players get along with each other and the coaching staff?
- Does the athletic department strive for excellence, and will it provide me with the necessary tools and support to enrich my experience both on and off the course?
- What are the goals of the golf program and will those goals allow me to reach my goals as a student and a golfer?
- What is the general coaching philosophy, and will I fit and be able to make a contribution to this team?
- What sorts of resources and opportunities will be available to me when I graduate?
- What will it mean to my future to graduate with a 4-year degree from this university as a member of its golf team?
- Does the college/university provide the type of social environment that I can participate and be comfortable in?
- Does this seem like a place where I can spend four years and continue to improve myself and my golfing ability?
