For Mount student-athletes, the day does not end after the bell rings. Every day brings a constant demand of pressure and responsibility. After long, intense practices, and endless tests to study for, students learn how to test their time management and disciplinary skills every day.

For many student-athletes, they have to plan their time very carefully, making sure every minute counts. Many don’t realize the amount of stress and time that goes into balancing both academics and athletics. Juggling practices and tests can almost feel impossible at times, leaving students feeling overwhelmed and burnt out.

“I just wish there were more hours in a day to get everything done. I come home from practice and by the time I start my homework, I am exhausted,” Annie Seminack ‘27 said.

Staying organized plays a key role in reaching success as a student-athlete. It allows them to prioritize goals and create efficient study habits. Senior on the varsity soccer team, Kaitlyn Cunningham ‘26 said, “I just try to get everything done as soon as I get it, so it’s not too overwhelming. I like to remind myself to take it one step at a time.”

By tackling one assignment, quiz, or test at a time, students can manage their workload efficiently and constantly give their best effort. In doing so, they will achieve success.

With being a student-athlete comes countless sacrifices. Many have to give up time with friends, family, and even sleep to stay on top of schoolwork. Missing social events or staying up late to study, or finish assignments becomes a part of their routines.

“I always have to go in early and give up my lunch time for extra help,” Caroline Dougherty ‘27 said.

Although these sacrifices can be difficult to make, they reflect on the strong commitment student-athletes have towards both their teams and academics, showcasing their determination and perseverance to achieve balance and discipline.

Despite the amount of stress and pressure that student-athletes face here at the Mount, many rely on support systems, such as parents, friends, teachers, or coaches. The Mount offers a variety of resources for student-athletes to succeed both academically and athletically. However, motivation within is what truly drives student-athletes to perform to the best of their ability. Many seek the desire to feel accomplished through their own talents.

“I want to feel validated, academically, and want to perform well for myself,” Kaitlyn Cunningham ‘26 said.

Though the days may feel never ending and the pressure to succeed never subsides, these lessons will last a lifetime. Shaping them into the person they are, disciplined, resilient, and hardworking. The skills they obtain now are key in reaching success that will carry long after the Mount.