KPMG Personal Development Program

Description

This is a research article published in Frontiers in Sports and Active Living in January 2025, focusing on dual-career student athletes in Spanish universities. The study investigates the characteristics, challenges, and interests of elite university athletes balancing their sports and academic careers. Through a comprehensive survey of 411 students from 27 Spanish universities, the researchers examined various aspects including demographics, sports participation, academic pursuits, and the support systems available to these athletes. Key findings reveal that these student-athletes face significant challenges in time management, with 36% at the international sports level and 59% at the national level. The research highlights the importance of university support mechanisms, such as flexible exam scheduling, scholarship programs, and absence justification. The study also demonstrates a strong interest in international mobility, with 84% of dual-career students expressing desire to participate in Erasmus+ programs. Ultimately, the research aims to provide insights that can help universities develop more effective support strategies for student-athletes pursuing dual careers.