23 Oct 2024
Aspire Academy has held two university fairs in its bid to ensure that its student-athletes strive to continue their development after graduation.
The first fair featured US universities, some of which are based in Qatar and others in the USA.
The second event allowed other universities in the country and companies with graduate programmes, such as Qatar Airways, the police and the army, to highlight the opportunities they can offer.
Student Affairs Services Manager Abdul Aziz Al-Jedaia said that Aspire is keen to ensure that the student-athletes have the widest possible choice of high-quality paths to follow after they leave the Academy.
“The student-athletes are coming to the end of their time with us, and they need to prepare for the next step,” he explained.
“So we want to offer them the chance to explore what some high-level universities have to offer in terms of specialities, other fields and how they can best pursue their sports.”
“Of course, many of the universities provide their education here, but also give the option of studying abroad as well.
The student-athletes also appreciated the chance to discuss their options for continuing their studies after Aspire Academy.
“I am taking the chance to take a closer look at what kind of choices I have – especially in sports management as that is the career I would like to follow,” swimmer Mohammed Jassim Al-Marri said.
“Of course, I am keen to continue my swimming, so I am looking at universities that have an excellent swimming programme, too.”
“God willing, I have a future in sports, but I need a career as a backup, and further studies are crucial for that."
Footballer Kristijan Saric echoed his thoughts.
“These university fairs are really helpful for us as we look to choose what we want to study next,” he said.
“I am looking to stay here in Qatar, and there are some really good ones that offer the majors that I would like to study.
“It is important to continue with my education as earning a career in sport is tough and never guaranteed.”