Academics/Athletics and eclectic interests

Colleges & Universities A-Z University of California - Los Angeles
1

<p>I am concerned about how I would fit in being a very nerdy bookworm who also likes athletics. I am not an athlete, although I considered it. But I didn't want D1 to take over my life, so I am not training in any sort of off-season team now. I am beginning to miss my team though as I become more sitting at home w/ my book sort of person lately.</p>

<p>In my school, the jocks are usually not as intellectual and nerdy as I am and the nerds don't play sports. I hope this is not the same case here. I've heard that there are negative stereotypes w/ athletes here. Does this only apply to varsity athletes?</p>

<p>I used to swim for my varsity high school team (season ended last Nov) and I also was one of the higher level figure skaters on my team until it dissolved this year. No senior ice show for me! :( I enjoy both sports very much but I think I would have to pick one in college: club swimming or club figure skating. Would I be stressed to skate twice a week and swim three times a week, what I sort of did during high school? Do grad schools even CARE about these things?</p>

<p>In addition, I enjoy writing and I write for my high school newspaper. I am also a creative writer and love to dedicate time writing creative non-fiction...argh am I going to die if I pursue all of my hobbies? If I stop something it seems as if my soul may be taken away.</p>

<p>*Sorry if I offended anyone. My stereotypes are quite sharp.</p>

2

<p>Students were not accepted to UCLA solely on the basis of academics. They excelled in other things such as sports, music, dance, etc. I have met a lot of well-rounded students while at UCLA. There's a gymnast, several competitive soccer players, several band geeks, photographers, artists, multi-sport athletes... and.... combinations of those groups alone on my floor. </p>

<p>Multiple Sports in College No one can answer this question except for you. Shop around your first few quarters at UCLA or however long you need to find your niche. You cannot do everything here. Try things out. See if they are worthy investments and then proceed. </p>

<p>Do grad schools CARE? Grad schools admissions are different (to say the least) from the college admissions process. What kind of graduate school? Master's/PhD programs leading to a career in academia? Business/law/medicine school? They have all have different admissions standards. Really, right now is too early too worry about ECs and grad school. You're not even in college yet! </p>

<p>I think that you should come into school with the mindset that you will not be able to do everything. Also, you might find other activities that interest you. So, shop around. Pick and choose... and then invest!</p>