24/7 Career Support: Why Student-Athletes Need On-Demand Services
Student-athletes face a fundamental conflict between their demanding athletic and academic schedules and the traditional operating hours of university career services. With the NCAA estimating that athletes spend up to 20 hours per week on their sport, time for career development activities—like workshops or counseling—is scarce and rarely aligns with a 9-to-5 workday. This time constraint creates a critical need for flexible, accessible, and asynchronous career support.
On-demand career services offer a crucial solution by providing support anytime, anywhere. Services such as online career counseling, virtual workshops, resume reviews, and job search resources can be accessed digitally, ensuring students get the help they need regardless of their location or training schedule.1 Offering 24/7 availability is vital, as online career portals and virtual career fairs allow students to focus on career development during their limited free windows, such as evenings or travel time.
The shift to on-demand models brings significant benefits, starting with personalized career guidance. Platforms can leverage individual profiles to offer customized job recommendations, skills assessments, and learning paths that maximize the impact of the athlete’s limited preparation time.2 Furthermore, online services provide a comprehensive array of resources, including resume templates and interview preparation tools, equipping students with knowledge they can access instantly. Critically, on-demand services include virtual networking opportunities like online career fairs, allowing students to connect with potential employers and industry experts without scheduling conflicts or the need for travel.3
Technology accelerates this accessibility. The use of artificial intelligence (AI), such as chatbots for instant answers or tools to optimize resumes for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), enhances efficiency.4 Equally important is mobile accessibility, ensuring that athletes can review job listings, participate in virtual events, and connect with advisors directly from their phones or tablets while on the go. By implementing flexible and accessible on-demand services, universities can significantly improve the career readiness of all student-athletes, ensuring equity and supporting their smooth transition from college sports to professional careers.