Love waking up at 6 am to workout? Ever want to have no free time to do anything? Want to be sweaty all the time? Want to feel sore every single day? Be a college athlete!

EAT SLEEP and RUN! That's my life.

I run cross country and track at Utica College. I'd be lying if I said I didn't love it. I run about 40 to 45 miles a week and it is probably the best decision I have ever made.

Stress reliever

I may have a nursing exam the next day but running an 8 mile long run or having an 8 am lift makes me forget about everything. I just focus with what I'm doing within that moment and I feel like nothing else matters.

The Infamous 6am practices

Even though hated by every collegiate athlete, deep down we love them. We love how we feel afterwards and how we have already accomplished so much before our roommates have even gotten out of bed yet. Whether it be a 6 mile hill workout or tempo run and some strides at the end I know that I'm done for the day and knowing that I don't have to practice later on is a great feeling.

Team Bonding

I love my team. I always have people to sit with in the caf. It's almost like they never leave. But with all jokes aside, I know I always have people there for me. They cheer me on when I'm running that rigorous 6k in the scorching heat after a 6 hour bus ride. They are there for me whenever I need a shoulder to lean on. Whenever I am stressed out I know they are there. During our workouts I know they are right by my side feeling everything that I'm feeling and still pushing themselves to their limit. I couldn't have asked for a better team. They are truly a wonderful support system.

Time Management

They have study hours! This is where we are forced to stay on top of everything and get a 3.0 the first semester or you will never leave study hours (I have graduated from study hours). I just think being a college athlete has helped keep me very organized and focused on what I need to do in order to be successful. I would workout anyway so these practices just give me that designated time to "workout". It also allows me to schedule when I will study and do my homework. It is etched into my schedule that way. I truthfully think it has helped me achieve the grades that I strive for.

As tough as it may be it truly is so worth it in the end. You stay in shape, it's a stress reliever, you make wonderful and lifelong friends, and also learn how to manage your time wisely.