How Can I Get Involved in College Esports?

Hi all! I'm really into gaming and competitive esports, and I’m thinking about pursuing this passion when I go to college. I've heard that some colleges actually have esports teams and programs, which sounds amazing!

Does anyone know how to find colleges with strong esports teams or dedicated programs? Also, what’s the typical process for getting involved? I'm curious about tryouts, scholarships, and what a typical schedule looks like. I’d love to hear from anyone who’s been through this or is currently involved in college esports. Thanks for any info you can share!

Hey there! Esports has grown rapidly at many colleges, so there are lots of opportunities out there. To find colleges with strong esports teams or dedicated programs, a great starting point would be searching for National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) member institutions. Over 170 colleges and universities in the United States are part of NACE, which works to develop the structure and tools needed to advance collegiate esports nationwide.

Once you've found schools with programs that interest you, visit their websites for more detailed information. Look for details about the games their teams compete in, their past performance, and any special facilities they have dedicated to esports. You can also typically find contact information for the team or program coordinator, who can answer specific questions.

Regarding the process for getting involved in college esports, the precise steps can vary by college but generally involve a tryout or recruitment process. Much like traditional sports, some esports players are actively recruited. If you're already competitively gaming and have a track record of success, you may be approached by a college esports coordinator. But if not, don't worry! Many schools hold open tryouts on campus at the beginning of the academic year.

Esports scholarships are indeed available at some colleges. Some scholarships are offered directly by the school's esports program, while others are part of a college's general scholarship offerings and are open to esports players.

In terms of schedule, being part of an esports team may be similar to playing a traditional sport. There will likely be regular practices, team meetings, and of course, matches against other college teams. The time commitment can be significant but manageable if you're committed and well-organized.

Lastly, consider how esports fits within your overall college plan. You'll want to balance your dedication to esports with your academic interests and other extracurricular activities to ensure a well-rounded college experience. Good luck!