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Will Arts or Athletics Better Prepare Me for a Career?

Wondering whether going out for a soccer team or joining an art club will help you in postgrad life? The answer is both, and our experts will tell you why!

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You might not think there are many similarities between the two, but artists and athletes do share several foundational skills. And they’re skills from which you undoubtedly benefit as a college student and a working professional in any field.

You develop time management skills that come from juggling a busy schedule, whether it’s fitting in football practice or rehearsals for the spring musical. You gain confidence, whether it comes after displaying a painting in a competition or scoring a goal to win the game. Both are competitive fields, whether you’re gunning for the All-State team or the All-State choir. Time management and organizational skills? A confident, positive outlook? A healthy sense of competition and ambition? These things are hiring managers’ dream qualifications. So the answer is: Either! Both extracurricular areas will prepare you well for any career. 

And you can’t discount the pure joy you get from doing something you love. Life is tough sometimes, and personal happiness takes work. Engaging in these activities, artistic or sporty, even just for fun, can make for an all-around happier you going into your life after college. And that’s worth the time and effort alone.

Are you looking for a college to support the full range of your passions? Check out our article on How to Find Colleges to Pursue Multiple Interests for tips on finding the right schools

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University of Missouri

Columbia, MO