MACOMB, Ill. – Western Illinois University Athletics was represented at the NCAA Career in Sports Forum by women's soccer student-athlete, Rachel Balinao this past weekend in Indianapolis, Indiana. Balinao was one of nearly 200 student-athletes invited to attend after being nominated by the athletic administrative staff at WIU.
The NCAA's Career in Sports Forum is an annual educational program that brings together roughly 200 selected student-athletes from all three divisions to learn about and explore potential careers in sports, particularly college athletics. The forum is designed to help student-athletes network with peers and decision-makers at the campus, conference, and national level of college athletics as well as chart their own career paths.
"My experience at the 2024 Career in Sports Forum was amazing," said Balinao. "I walked into NCAA Headquarters unsure about my future and knowing no one at the event. I walked out three days later with multiple friendships, a new understanding of myself, and possible paths I can take for my future."
Balinao, who also serves on the Student-Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC) at WIU, shared that one of her main takeaways from the weekend was that her path is unique.
"I am on my own journey in my career and life, which takes time and pivoting," Balinao said. "The Career in Sports Forum was a one-of-a-kind opportunity that I wished was longer than four days. I am grateful for the experience with great team leaders, speakers, mentors, friends, and future co-workers."
Attendees of the Career in Sports Forum are in their third, fourth, fifth season of competition, or are graduate students at their respective institutions. In order to qualify to attend, they must have also participated in an NCAA-sponsored sport during the past academic and athletic year. More information about the event can be found HERE.
