Does being a college athlete look good on a resume?

By Jason Bolton July 26, 2023 12:39

Photo by Matt Kipp for NJIT Athletics

In today's competitive job market, standing out from the crowd is crucial for college graduates seeking employment opportunities. While academic achievements and relevant work experience are typically highlighted on a resume, there is a growing recognition of the value that student-athletes bring to the table. Employers highly value the unique skills and attributes that student-athletes develop during their time on the field, court, or track. This article delves into the ways in which being a college athlete can enhance a resume and increase employability.

One of the most significant benefits of being a college athlete is the development of exceptional teamwork and communication skills. Athletes are accustomed to working with a diverse group of teammates towards a common goal. This experience fosters collaboration, cooperation, and effective communication. Employers recognize and appreciate individuals who can actively listen, contribute to a collective effort, and work effectively with others.

Being a college athlete often entails assuming leadership roles within a team. Captains and team leaders are responsible for motivating their teammates, setting examples, and making critical decisions under pressure. These experiences cultivate strong leadership qualities in student-athletes, which are highly valued by employers. The ability to take charge, drive positive change, and make decisions in high-pressure situations demonstrates maturity, confidence, and resilience.

Student-athletes are inherently goal-oriented and results-driven. They constantly strive for personal and team success, setting and achieving targets both on and off the field. This goal-oriented mindset translates well into the professional realm. Employers appreciate individuals who are driven, focused, and determined to achieve their objectives. The ability to set goals, work towards them, and measure progress is a valuable asset that student-athletes bring to the workplace.

Another key attribute that college athletes develop is adaptability. In the world of sports, circumstances can change rapidly, requiring athletes to adjust their strategies and tactics accordingly. This adaptability extends beyond the sports arena and equips student-athletes with the ability to thrive in dynamic and unpredictable work environments. Additionally, the pressure and stress that come with competitive sports help athletes develop effective stress management techniques. Employers seek individuals who can handle pressure with grace and deliver optimal performance, making student-athletes highly desirable candidates.

To maximize the benefits of their athletic background, student-athletes should treat their sports experience as work experience on their resumes. By highlighting the skills and qualities developed through their athletic endeavors, they can demonstrate their potential value to prospective employers. Student-athletes should emphasize their leadership roles, team achievements, personal growth, and any other relevant experiences. This can be done by creating a dedicated section for athletics on the resume, showcasing achievements, and describing responsibilities in a concise and compelling manner.

While being a college athlete provides a strong foundation of skills, seeking additional career development support can further enhance employability. Many universities offer career services tailored specifically to student-athletes, providing guidance on resume writing, interview preparation, and networking. Taking advantage of these resources can help student-athletes effectively market themselves to potential employers and stand out in a competitive job market.

The value of being a college athlete extends far beyond the sports arena. Employers recognize the unique skills, qualities, and experiences that student-athletes bring to the workplace. The development of teamwork, communication, leadership, goal-oriented mindset, adaptability, and stress management abilities make student-athletes exceptional candidates. By treating their athletic experience as work experience on their resumes and seeking career development support, student-athletes can leverage their background to enhance their employability. So, if you are a college athlete wondering whether being one looks good on a resume, the answer is a resounding yes.