SXU Double-Major Named a Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete
For the third time in her career, Saint Xavier University (SXU) golfer Emily Hunt was named a Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete and landed on the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC) All-Academic Team at the end of the academic year. Off the course, Hunt finds that her SXU education thoroughly prepared her to excel in her future career as a veterinarian.
Over 400 student-athletes from 124 institutions were named scholar-athletes, and to be eligible, one must maintain at least a 3.50 grade point average (GPA). The CCAC All-Academic Team requires a 3.25 GPA. Holding a 3.97 GPA and a stellar athletic record, the biology and business double-major was an ideal recipient for the accolades.
"Receiving the NAIA scholar-athlete recognition for the third time in my collegiate career is an honor. This acknowledgment reinforces the significance of my efforts both on and off the course. Balancing athletic and academic pursuits has allowed me to pursue my passions. Being recognized for this balance serves as a validation of my hard work and dedication, spurring me on to maintain excellence in both areas," Hunt said.
Hunt competed in seven tournaments during the year and played 13 rounds of golf with an average score of 89.6. She finished the season with three consecutive top 10 draws, including back-to-back top five finishes. She recorded a season-low score of 84 three times.
While being a student-athlete can be challenging, Hunt found that golfing at SXU taught her the fundamentals of teamwork and how to work in high-pressure situations, which ultimately transferred into the classroom.
"Competing at the collegiate level provides valuable experience in high-pressure situations. It has helped me learn how to become resilient on the course and persevere in tough mental situations. Participating in competitive matches regularly helped me identify my areas for improvement and refine my game through feedback and experience. My time playing with SXU has provided a conducive environment for growth as a golfer, combining opportunities for competition and teamwork that contributed to my development and success in golf," Hunt said.
Hunt graduated from SXU in May and also held a minor in chemistry. She recently has been accepted into the University of Wisconsin Madison Veterinary School, where she will pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian. Hunt credits her acceptance and feelings of preparedness to her academic journey at SXU.
"SXU has prepared me through rigorous classes in both biology and business. Not only was I able to continue my love for biology and pursuit of my veterinarian degree, but I was able to learn the business aspect as well. The education I have received at SXU not only equipped me with knowledge and skills relevant to being a veterinarian but also fostered critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication. SXU's emphasis on holistic education encouraged me to explore diverse subjects, perspectives, and experiences, enriching my understanding of the world," Hunt said.
With an incredible Athletics Department, expert faculty thought-leaders, and endless opportunities for internships and career preparation, Hunt couldn't boast more about her experience at SXU. She encourages prospective students to consider applying to SXU, as the University's career preparation resources are invaluable.
"SXU's supportive academic environment, personalized attention from faculty, and opportunities for research, internships, and community engagement can help you develop networks and gain practical experience. I have been able to go on field experience trips to Yellowstone National Park, the Ozarks, and to the Florida Keys with the Shedd Aquarium through my ACCA course, Marine and Island Ecology. These experiences, combined with the credibility of an SXU degree, can enhance your prospects for employment or further education after graduation," Hunt said.