Why College Fit Matters

Why Finding the Right College Fit Matters (Especially for Student-Athletes)

When I was deciding where to go to college (back in the “olden days” of 1996), living in California made the process feel pretty straightforward. I applied to a range of California State University and University of California schools and called it a day. College consultants weren’t really a thing back then—or at least, not in my world—so I did most of the research on my own.

My freshman year dorm, Bixby Hall

At the time, I was convinced I wanted to pursue a career in animal or veterinary science. Naturally, that led me to focus on UC Davis, home to one of the country's top veterinary programs. What I didn’t realize then was that a pre-vet track isn’t about spending your days working with animals—it’s rooted in a rigorous schedule of math and science courses. Let’s just say Organic Chemistry was not my strong suit. It didn’t take long for me to realize that pre-vet wasn’t the right path for me.

UC Davis Memorial Union

If I could go back and talk to my 1996 self, I would absolutely recommend digging deeper into the course requirements for that major and spending time job shadowing at local veterinary clinics. Getting a real-world view of the career could have saved me a year (or more) of coursework that ultimately didn’t align with where I ended up—majoring in Communications.

Check out our snazzy UC Davis cotton jerseys (circa 1997-1998 season)

That said, even though my academic path changed, my choice of school still proved to be the right one. I loved the college-town feel of Davis, the traditional dorm experience, and the opportunity to help build something special as a member of the women’s rugby team, which launched in 1997. Those elements—the environment, the community, and the experience—made it a great fit. So when my major shifted, I didn’t feel like I needed to start over somewhere new.

This is exactly why I emphasize “fit” so strongly, especially when working with student-athletes. Injuries are, unfortunately, a reality in sports. Because of that, I always encourage students to prioritize finding a school where they’ll be happy beyond their sport. If the unexpected happens and they can’t compete, they should still feel confident and excited about where they are—academically, socially, and personally.

At the end of the day, your sport is part of your college experience—but it shouldn’t be the only reason you choose a school.

Here are some more thoughts about WHY college fit matters:

For student-athletes, choosing a college isn’t just about where you can play—it’s about where you can perform, develop, and live well for four years. The right fit shapes not only your athletic career, but your academic success and overall college experience.

It’s More Than the Roster Spot

Getting recruited or earning a spot feels like the finish line—but it’s really the starting point. The right fit means the coaching style, team culture, and program expectations align with how you learn and compete. A mismatch here can turn something you love into a daily source of stress.

Iowa Central Community College Men's Rugby

Playing Time vs. Development

Every athlete wants to compete, but immediate playing time isn’t the only factor. Some programs offer faster development, better training resources, or a system that fits your strengths. The key question isn’t just “Will I play?”—it’s “Will I improve and be set up for long-term success?”

The Coach–Athlete Relationship Matters

Your coach will have one of the biggest influences on your college experience. Communication style, trust, and expectations all matter. A strong relationship can elevate your confidence and performance, while a poor fit can impact both your mental health and motivation. This is why speaking with a coach (even if they can't officially recruit you) is helpful. Do you get along with this coach? What is the overall "vibe" of this coach (asking current players for input is also helpful)?

Balancing Academics and Athletics

Student-athletes juggle demanding schedules. The right school will support you with academic advising, flexibility, and resources that help you succeed in the classroom and in your sport. If that balance isn’t there, burnout comes fast. When talking to players, ask them how their typical day looks like and get a sense of If they feel like their academic and athletic lives are balanced or chaotic.

Team Culture Can Make or Break It

You’re not just joining a program—you’re joining a group of people you’ll spend most of your time with. A positive, supportive team culture makes tough practices and long seasons manageable. The wrong environment can feel isolating, even if everything else looks good on paper.

Location, Lifestyle, and Comfort

Climate, campus size, distance from home—these factors matter more than athletes often admit. Where you live affects your daily routine, recovery, and overall happiness. If you’re uncomfortable off the field, it shows up in your performance.

Financial Fit Still Counts

Athletic scholarships are only part of the picture. Understanding the full financial commitment—and what happens if circumstances change—is critical. A good fit means stability and fewer distractions from your goals.

Bottom Line

The best college for a student-athlete isn’t the highest level or biggest name—it’s the place where you can develop as a player, succeed as a student, and enjoy your life. When you choose fit over flash, you give yourself the best chance to grow, compete, and thrive.