“I committed to the University of Oregon in November of 2024 for baseball. During the summer of ‘24, recruiters from the university first saw me play during travel ball, a structure of league where I would travel to play in different arenas, kind of like the AAU for basketball. The recruiters took interest in me, and then followed up with my coach, who then eventually got them in touch with me. Over the next year and a half, we called online to discuss the various agreements, contracts, regulations, and of course, to get to know each other. It was on those calls that I verbally committed to the university, and they held their trust in me to stay true to that commitment until November, when the hard copy signatures would be sent. Although, my process wasn’t completely unconventional, as I still had to go through the regular college admissions process: applying to the university through its procedure through and through. I wrote all the essays, sent in all my transcripts, and attached recommendation letters as anyone would do. Of course, since I had already been given an offer and was committed, I was ‘accepted’ to the university—receiving a full ride scholarship that would cover my tuition and housing fees. 

Once I’m in Oregon, I’ll still have to compete to get on the school team, which is ultimately my goal. My scholarship isn’t reliant on the fact that I make the cut my first year, but I’d still like to. If not this year though, there’s always next year.”