Two Standards, One Athlete

Abstract

The purpose of this literature review is to provide an examination of collegiate student athletes, primarily focused on the integration of both academic and athletic roles.  The review focused on student athletes and how they mesh their role as a student and their sport. How do student-athletes who play sports in college continue to grow and be successful in their student role while also playing their sport? Primary integration was used as the type of review. This meant that peer-reviewed journal articles were used, and prior theories were analyzed. There were no participants because this was a review of articles. Articles were chosen based on similarities in themes throughout the literature. This literature focused on collegiate student-athletes. Themes included time management, role strain, social support, coping, and career development. What was found is that student-athletes tend to struggle with many things on and off the field. But they learn many skills that can help them transition into their career after college. Student athletes who coped through different strategies, had social support, and had access to university resources, had more success in their sport and as a student. By looking at student athletes through the lens of Integrated Studies, we can help students be successful not only during college but after by focusing on their academic, psychological, social, and career development. Limitations and future recommendations would be to allow universities to have better programs that focus on students in all aspects. Such as mental health and career development.

Keywords: Time-Management, Role Conflict, Coping Strategies, Social Support, Transitions 

Year Manuscript Completed

Spring 2026

Senior Project Advisor

Tricia Jordan

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Commerce & Leadership

Document Type

Thesis - Murray State Access only

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