UIC's Corey Steven, HL's National SAAC Rep, sits down for a Q&A session
Feb. 18, 2005
Of all of the accolades you have received since high school, which do you feel most proud of, or which holds the most significance to you and why?
I am most proud of being the Horizon League's National SAAC representative for the NCAA Division 1 SAAC Committee. It is a privilege to be the representative and impact thousands of student-athletes.
Why did you decide to attend the
It's quite an interesting story, but I will narrow it down quite a bit. I actually had my heart set on going to a major Big 12 school, but heard about how awesome the coach was here at UIC. I took my final 5th visit here and found myself to love the school, city and coach. I felt at home and I knew that I would be happiest here.
Can you describe your experience being the Horizon League's National SAAC representative and the Horizon League's SAAC President? How have these two positions impacted your life as a college-athlete?
This has been my first year being SAAC President and the NCAA representative for the Horizon League. I have had the privilege to work with amazing people through these positions. I don't think our administration gets the credit they deserve sometimes. They care about the student's welfare and will do the best they can to keep it intact. I have also developed a greater appreciation for the NCAA and all the time and effort that go into it. With these two positions, I have learned life lessons that I can take with me on and off the tennis court.
My life as a student-athlete honestly has changed due to these two positions. I have a greater amount of knowledge about the NCAA, the Horizon League, and how to improve institutions/student-athletes. I hope make some positive changes and make an impact.
Can you describe the experience of being away from home for college and attending a school located in a major metropolis such as
I must say, it was quite a change coming from
What is the thing you will miss most about being part of a team as a player and teammate to others?
There are 2 things I know for sure I will miss. I will definitely miss the competitive edge college sports have to offer. But on a more fun note, there is no doubt that I won't miss the crazy and fun van rides with my coaches and teammates. I don't know if I will ever know a team who has as much fun as we do!
What did you find to be the most challenging part of tennis (singles and doubles), and how does it compare with the challenges you have had to face in the classroom as a student?
In reality, my first two years, I thought singles was more challenging for me than doubles. I loved playing with a doubles partner, and I always enjoyed doubles more. But in this past year, doubles has actually been more challenging than singles. I have had about 5 different doubles partners throughout my collegiate career and have had to learn how to communicate and succeed with a new one every time.
In the classroom, my biggest challenge is studying for every class a night. A friend told me once, if I put as much dedication into my school work as I do tennis, I will succeed in the classroom. I am learning to dedicate more of my free time towards school, which isn't always the most exciting thing to do!
How has being a student athlete enhanced your college experience at the
Being a student-athlete has allowed me to interact with administrators, teachers, and fellow student-athletes. I also had to learn quite quickly how to mange my time quickly. But on a more exciting note, traveling is a favorite of mine. I love traveling with my teammates from city to city.
Have any of your classes had any influence on the way you view yourself as a student-athlete?
I look at myself now as someone who needs to put in double the work due to our crazy schedules. After going to classes and then practice all I want to do is relax. But I've recently learned that I have to fight through my urge to relax, get focused and study for classes. It's all about managing my time.
Can you describe the difficulties of maintaining a high performance level academically while striving to perform at an equal level on the court?
This actually is a difficult situation for me as we speak, but I believe it is an ongoing struggle for all student-athletes. It is hard to juggle between the two. But what I've learned is to give everything you have every second of the day. Whether I am on the court, in the classroom, or at a meeting I need to give 100% of my effort at that moment and majority of the time I will perform well. I believe hard work on the court carries on into the classroom.
As an upperclassman, can you offer any advice to your younger teammates or other athletes that may be just starting their own collegiate careers?
I would advise other athletes to use their resources wisely. Everyone at your institution truly cares about your future in sports and academics. Listen to the advice others give you, because by listening to their constructive criticism, it can positively change you. Don't forget that you only get 4 years, time will run out fast, so prepare well and don't get caught behind.
During your off-season, how do you like to spend the extra amount of free time that you have?
In my free time I enjoy a variety of things. But mostly I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, watching movies, and traveling.
What are your career plans or goals after graduation next May?
After graduation I plan on attending dental school.
