The Atlantic East Conference held a Career in the Sports Symposium for its student-athlete members, along with the spring 2024 student-athlete advisory committee (SAAC) meeting, at Immaculata University on Sunday, February 4, 2024. 

At the symposium, a variety of guest speakers gave eye-opening presentations with the common theme of life after sports. Guest speakers included Bree LeCompte from Strive Leadership, Chidozie Ibeabuchi and Jasmine Ramirez from By Any Means Coaching, and Katie Hargrave from Striving Beyond Sport.

For student-athletes who have played their sport their whole life, the transition to a normal life can be difficult. Being aware of the resources that are available gives student-athletes the confidence to carve their paths towards a fulfilling life after sports. 

“It was very interesting to listen to the speakers and take a moment to think. Life after sports is something so many student-athletes try to avoid, but it is so important,” said Eve Haddad, captain of the Cyclones’ women’s soccer team. 

In addition to the Career in Sports Symposium, student-athlete representatives from each university participated in the spring conference SAAC meeting. During the meeting, representatives shared their schools’ plans for DIII Week, fundraiser ideas, and how they are addressing sportsmanship. 

“It’s great to hear about what other schools are doing to celebrate their student-athletes. We can take ideas and use them here to make our experience more enjoyable,” Kaylie Elsbree, a guard for the Lady Cyclones basketball team, commented. 

The Career in Sports Symposium and conference SAAC meeting served as a valuable platform for student-athletes to get together, share ideas, and learn about what life is like after sports.