The best time to begin considering your university choice is now, regardless of where you are in high school.
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If you’re in the ninth or 10th grade, begin by assessing both your athletic and academic abilities. Understanding your strengths and weaknesses will help you set realistic goals for your academics and rowing.
As you approach the summer before your junior year, it’s time to refine those goals. This is an ideal time to think about the type of school you’d like to attend. Do you envision yourself at a large state university, a smaller liberal-arts college, or something in between? With so many options, the process can feel overwhelming. There are also great club programs that offer attractive opportunities to keep rowing.
For rowers, official (paid) visits are allowed in both the junior and senior years. Many athletes take advantage of early visits, even before they’re ready to decide. While early visits can be helpful, it’s important not to rush your choices.
So when is the right time to begin the process of selecting a university? Again: now. Wherever you are in the process, there’s always a productive next step. Even if it’s the fall of your senior year and you’ve just decided you want to row in college, it’s not too late. Begin by expressing your interest to university coaches. Your current coach or a recruiting expert can guide you through the next steps.
Whether early in high school or nearing the end, it’s never too soon—or too late—to begin preparing for your university rowing careeer.
Robbie Tenenbaum coached at the NCAA level for over 30 years and with the U.S. Junior National Team for eight. He now helps parents and families navigate the university recruiting process.
