Why Student-Athletes Are the Ultimate Hires

From the playing field to the corporate office, former student-athletes are proving to be some of the most sought-after employees. Companies like Northwestern Mutual, Enterprise, and OTO Development are actively recruiting them, recognizing that the skills they develop in sports are invaluable in the professional world.

Corry Oakes, a former Wofford football player and co-founder of OTO Development, sees it firsthand. He attributes his own success to the discipline and work ethic he learned as an athlete. According to Oakes, the majority of his company’s leadership team has a background in athletics, which he says is no coincidence. He highlights key traits that make student-athletes exceptional employees:

• Time management and discipline: The ability to balance a demanding practice schedule with academics translates directly to juggling multiple projects and deadlines in a job.
• Teamwork and communication: Student-athletes understand that every role is critical, from a star player to a support staff member. This fosters a collaborative mindset essential for a company’s success.
• Perseverance and optimism: Sports teach resilience. Athletes are accustomed to facing setbacks and pushing through to achieve a goal, a skill that is crucial for navigating the challenges of a competitive business environment.

Mike McCrimon, a Wofford alumnus and former football player, agrees. Now working at Enterprise, he draws a direct parallel between his time on the field and his career. “You want to help your branch be the best branch in the group,” he says, mirroring the team-oriented approach of football. He notes that the competitive, fast-paced nature of his job feels familiar and rewarding.

Industry experts also echo this sentiment. Kelley Stovall, a chief recruitment officer at Northwestern Mutual, says that more than 90% of his team has an athletic background. He emphasizes that student-athletes are highly “coachable,” making them excellent interns and employees. Similarly, Enterprise’s Vice President of Talent Acquisition, Marie Artim, states that her company’s success is tied to recruiting college graduates, with a special emphasis on former student-athletes and the value they bring to the business.

Ultimately, companies are looking for more than just a college degree. They are looking for the proven drive, resilience, and collaborative spirit that student-athletes embody, which gives them a significant advantage in the job market.