Dear Next Wave — By Jeni Griffin - Tulane University Athletics

Dear Next Wave,

You are about to embark on one of the most rewarding journeys of your life that will bring you much pride and joy. You will have the opportunity to dive into the pool every day with other accomplished athletes, who will soon become some of your best friends, and train together toward a common goal. Looking back on my experience as a student-athlete at Tulane, I am so thankful for the memories I've made and the lessons I've learned that have set me up well to be successful in my future.

As fun as these next four years will be, I would be remiss if I didn't say there were challenges that come along with being a student-athlete. Some days, you might not perform as well as you'd like to in the pool, and other days, you might feel stressed about school. Know that these feelings are normal and that you will experience the most valuable personal growth as a result of the hardships you face. Additionally, the athletics department at Tulane is filled with helpful resources and friendly staff members who are there to help you with any problem you may face. Take advantage of those resources, and don't be afraid to ask for help.

College swimming is about more than just yourself and your individual times. It's also about the school and the team you represent. Don't let that overwhelm you; rather, let that fuel you! Go into every practice – and every meet – with the mindset of racing and beating the person next to you. You'll find that swimming is so much more fun when you have the energy of an entire team behind you.

You will quickly find that your teammates will become more than just the girls you train with – they will become your family. Not only will you be there for each other during the tough practices, but you will also celebrate your biggest successes with them. Invest in your relationships with your teammates, both inside and out of the pool, and don't be afraid to ask an upperclassman for help. One day, it will be your turn to step up and be a leader on the team.

While you will become quite busy with your life as a student-athlete, don't lose sight of your identity outside swimming. Whether it is participating in community service, joining a student organization, or investing some time in a hobby, finding balance in your life is a key to staying happy and motivated. I joined the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee my freshman year, which allowed me to meet other student-athletes and invest more time in community service and leadership development. When I needed to have a mental break from swimming, it was nice to have that community to lean on.

As a Tulane student, you have the unique opportunity to study at a university that is located in a city so rich with culture. Take advantage of that and spend time exploring! Some of my favorite memories in New Orleans have been from trying local restaurants, watching the Saints play and celebrating Mardi Gras. The way in which New Orleanians support and celebrate each other is unlike any other city I've experienced, and soon this community will become a part of you, too.

While it's time for a new chapter in my life, I look back on my experience as a student-athlete with nothing but gratitude. The challenges I overcame, the lifelong friends I made and the lessons I learned, will always be a part of me. Time goes by fast, so I encourage you to take advantage of every opportunity to make these four years some of the best yet! Roll Wave!

Jeni Griffin
Class of 2021
Bachelor of Science, Public Health/Economics

Dear Next Wave — By Jeni Griffin

Players Mentioned

Jeni Griffin

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