A Phenomenological Analysis of Division III Student-Athletes' Transition out of College.

TLDR: In this article, the transition of Division III student-athletes out of the college environment through applying phenomenological analysis as a qualitative tool to investigate the participants' lived experiences is explored.

Abstract: Intercollegiate athletics is a major segment of numerous college and university communities across America today. Student-athletes participate in strenuous training and competition throughout their college years while managing to balance the rigorous academic curriculum of the higher education environment. This research aims to explore the transition of Division III student-athletes out of the college environment through applying phenomenological analysis as a qualitative tool to investigate the participants’ lived experiences. The role of Division III athletics in higher education, experiences specifically related to the Division III student-athlete population, and transition experiences as these individuals navigate out of the institution and graduate to pursue future goals will be highlighted. A goal of this study is to provide a foundation for strategic steps that can be taken by both faculty and administrative divisions of the college/university setting to address the Division III athlete population more efficiently. As the well-roundedness of all students is imperative for successful integration into adult American society, college life provides the perfect interplay between academics, social activities, and integration into the real world.