Welcome to the fascinating world of scholar athletes, a unique breed of individuals who gracefully navigate the realms of academics and sports. A scholar athlete is someone who not only excels in their chosen sport but also demonstrates outstanding academic achievements. These remarkable individuals embody the perfect balance between athletic prowess and intellectual curiosity. In this blog post, we delve into the daily life of Francesca McBride, a senior scholar athlete at East Carolina University. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of her bustling routine, gaining insights into the challenges and rewards of being a scholar athlete. From rigorous training sessions to dedicated study hours, get ready to embark on a captivating journey that showcases the exceptional abilities and unwavering determination of these extraordinary individuals.

Now, let’s get to know Francesca!

Getting to know scholar athlete, Francesca McBride:

What level of college are you in?

I am a senior!

What sport do you play?

Volleyball.

What is your major? Why did you choose this major?

I am a Psychology major. I chose this major because it genuinely interests me and I like learning about people and how we (and our brains) interact with the world around us.

When will you graduate? Are you planning on getting your masters while in

college?

I graduate with my undergrad Spring of 2024. I am planning on getting my masters using my extra year due to COVID.

What is the name of the university you currently attend?

East Carolina University

How does it feel being away from home and how was it making the

adjustment?

I actually really like it and I rarely get homesick. I like exploring and traveling so being in a new environment is really beneficial for me.

What advice would you like to share with others coming after you?

I highly encourage making friends wherever you go to avoid homesickness but learn to be comfortable in your own company. Be kind to yourself and take care of your mental health, especially being a college athlete. Use the resources that are given to you, inside and outside athletics. Remain humble, show gratitude, and stay grounded.

A day in the life of a scholar athlete:

What is a day in the life of Francesca McBride as a scholar athlete? Well, let’s explore it!

Here’s a rough recall based on her spring semester experience:

- Wake up at 6:30am

- Try to eat something light

- Practice from 7am to 10am (3 hour practice)

- Hurry and get ready for class (or study hall depending on the day)

- Brunch

- 2-3 classes or study hall depending on the day

- Maybe nap?

- Lunch

- Lift/conditioning

- Maybe get treatment if needed (i.e. recovery boots, cold tub, rehab,

etc.)

- Shower and contemplate life

- Dinner!

- Homework time

- Eat something

- Sleep

Where did you do your internship(s)?

My internship last summer was with Education Design Lab and this summer I am working with Vot-ER. Both were remote-based internships that allowed me flexibility as a student-athlete.

Highlight Some takeaways from your internship experiences?

My internship experiences broadened my interests and skill sets which has helped me start to narrow down jobs that I would want to get into in the future. My interests range from tech to community development. My skill sets are mainly based in professional development and organizational skills.

Why did you do an internship?

I do internships to gain necessary experience in things I care about while adding to my resume. It really helps when you find internships that genuinely interest you.

Do you have any suggestions for how to balance an internship while being a student athlete?
When adding internships to my plate I make sure to know my schedule and commitments with volleyball. It’s important to communicate your schedule with whoever you’re doing an internship with so they can better accommodate
you. Being flexible and organized is super important for balancing an internship and being a student athlete.

Why should other scholar athletes consider doing an internship?

When we get out of college and into the real world, it is extremely important that we have the skills and foundation to support ourselves in starting a career.

Get in touch with GradeCheck to learn more about scholar athletes and their student grade tracker online!

So, as you can see, being a scholar athlete requires a lot of perseverance and dedication. Francesca McBride's daily routine has hopefully provided you a much-needed glimpse into the challenges and triumphs that come with this unique lifestyle. Balancing rigorous training and academics can be grueling, but the rewards are equally remarkable.

The life of a scholar athlete offers invaluable lessons in time management, resilience, and teamwork. It shapes individuals into well-rounded, determined individuals who can excel both on the field and in the classroom. With tools like GradeCheck, scholar athletes can efficiently monitor their academic progress and plan for a successful future. So, to all aspiring scholar athletes, embrace the journey, stay committed, and unlock the countless opportunities that await you as you navigate the exciting path of being a scholar athlete.