Christina Amoriello - Western Carolina University
The best part for me was being signed early! I will never forget that phone call and day I signed. To know where you are going and having your dreams come true is the ultimate feeling of happiness. The next best part is the official visits. Meeting everyone and getting a taste of college is fun and exciting! It also is a very important step because that really helps in your decision on whether that school is the right one.
NCSA had the biggest impact! The NCSA got my name and information out to the schools I wanted exposure to. Without them I do not believe I would have found the school I did, which in return would have changed my path in life. The guidance and advice they also gave me helped a tremendous amount. I really believe the NCSA is why I not only got signed, but signed early!
I constantly wrote letters to coaches expressing my interest and asking if they would like information. I looked at each school web site to view their academic and athletic information. Then, once the coaches and I were allowed to talk by phone, I did so as much as possible. My swing video was a great way for coaches to see my game if they were an out-of-state school.
For me, it was deciding where I would be the happiest. You don't really know what life will be like at each school, you have to experience it. I really had to listen to my heart and take into account all the factors of college.
This is a stressful time. You need to be patient, persistent, organized, but most of all be yourself! Really be open with coaches and do not be afraid to ask questions! You have to realize that the more assertive you are in showing an interest, the greater your chances of not being just "another" recruit! Hard work pays off. Plus coaches are usually "in season" when recruiting, so they are very busy. Keep your name on their mind!
