Grad student faces challenges competing as a collegiate athlete

Grad student athletes are few and far between on the CU campus. There are 336 athletes actively competing in the school’s Division I sports program. Only two of these athletes are currently enrolled in graduate studies.

Jessica Pixler, a current master’s student, knows exactly how challenging this commitment can be as she must juggle many things on a daily basis.

“Managing your schedule and being diligent about getting your work done in the time frame when you are traveling and competing and also training is important,” said Pixler.

Daily practices, team meetings and many hours preparing for the next track meet are not the only things Pixler has to worry about. She also has to stay on top of the rigorous course work. And part of staying on top of the work means staying motivated.

“In grad school, working hard is more of your own effort. It’s less about the grades and more about learning,” said Pixler. “So it’s a lot more personally motivated.”

Although it may be a huge commitment to continue an athletic career in graduate school, Pixler says that it’s worth the effort.

“I’m really excited. I have been training all fall and all winter and I am looking forward to this final season of competing. I love competition.”

Pixler and the rest of the track and field team will host CU Invitational in Boulder coming up on April 8, 2011. It will be a two day event.