Being a student-athlete requires a tremendous amount of commitment, hard work, and sacrifice—something Dr. Katie Rybakova is well acquainted with from her own experience.

Playing Division I tennis at Florida State University and holding many titles while playing there, Dr. Rybakova experienced a stereotype that often comes with being a student-athlete.

“The hardest part I think was actually battling the stereotype that competitive student-athletes are expected to cruise through classes. Every single one of us worked and studied incredibly hard—in my eyes sometimes even more so than the average student because we had to manage our time around our traveling schedule,” said Dr. Rybakova.

All the hard work and commitment it took to be a student-athlete is something Dr. Rybakova still honors to this day.

“When employers see that you played a sport AND were successful in the classroom, it speaks for itself. People know the work ethic and time management it takes to be successful on and off the court. You can apply those skills in your future career,” she said.

Dr. Rybakova said she grew from being a student-athlete. From gaining lifelong friends and an appreciation for teamwork and leadership, she says she may not have learned these treasured lessons otherwise.

Many students participate in various sports in the duration of their time here at Thomas College—creating a one-of-a-kind community. Seeing student-athletes in the classroom, Dr. Rybakova says that she has very high expectations of all her students and can often relate to what they’re experiencing.

 

“At Thomas we have a great academic support system—use it! Create that culture within your team that as student-athletes you hold each other accountable for the classroom, not only your sport. Go to class. Communicate with your professors. Ask for help from tutors or any other supports on campus. Be proactive. It won’t always be easy,” said Dr. Rybakova.