Bankruptcy and athlete-focused colleges - Any insights?

I just saw a headline about a 'private college where most students are athletes going bankrupt.' That kind of freaked me out! Does anyone know more about this? How common is it for colleges to go bankrupt, and what should student athletes be cautious about?

You're right to be concerned. The college you're referring to sounds like it might be a for-profit institution, which are more likely to fold due to financial instability than not-for-profit or public colleges and universities. While bankruptcies in higher education institutions are relatively rare, they have been on the rise in recent years, particularly for small, private colleges that are heavily dependent on tuition revenue.

That said, even so, the likelihood of a college falling into bankruptcy is still relatively low. Higher education institutions have various means of raising funds and are often able to weather financial storms. These means can include larger endowments, alumni donations, or state assistance.

As a student athlete, or a parent of one, there are certain things you might be aware of to make sure your education is secure. First and foremost, you should consider the financial health of the institution. Does the college or university have a large endowment? Are they heavily reliant on tuition for revenue? You can research to discover the financial health of a college or university, or you can have someone assist you with that.

Another important point to consider is the balance between academics and athletics at the college. Some colleges are so focused on athletics that they neglect the academics, which is not a good thing for students who want a rounded education. Always make sure the athletic program of the college is also committed to academic success of its athletes.

Third, it might be important to consider how well the athletic program is supported. Does the institution have modern facilities? Do they provide necessary resources for athletes to succeed, like well-trained coaches, sufficient practice time and travel resources?

Remember that it's okay to ask questions and do your due diligence. A college education is a significant investment and you want to make sure it's a sound one.