Ward is a senior captain and midfielder on the men’s soccer team. Ward was a NSCAA Scholar-All-American and National Scholar-Athlete of the Year in high school. Majoring in civil engineering, he was a member of the Patriot League Academic Honor Roll in 2012 and 2013.

“Something my parents instilled in me from a young age was that there is a reason the word ‘student’ comes first in the term ‘student-athlete,’” Ward said. “It means a lot to me to represent Bucknell because I am proud of what it does for all of its students, and it has given me the opportunity to keep playing the sport I love.”

When there are two or three games in a week, in addition to practice and workouts, there isn’t always enough time for academics. However, Ward makes his schoolwork a priority, and that is a necessity in any demanding major.

“Finding a balance between my academic workload and soccer is crucial. It is most difficult when we travel for games and I have to miss class. Ultimately, it is a big test of my time-management skills, and as long as I stay on top of all my commitments, I am able to balance them enough to do well,” Ward said.

Although it can get hectic trying to balance everything, students decide to transform into student-athletes because they know the great moments are waiting for them. There are plenty of unique opportunities, and you never want to let them pass by during your four years.

“Prepare for an exciting ride. You will not have the same college experience as many of your classmates, but hopefully that is what you are committed to. Being an athlete in college will offer you some unique opportunities to represent your university and form a family-type bond with your teammates and coaches,” Ward said.