An Evaluation of the Career Game Plan Program at Virginia Tech

The purpose of this project was to gain a better understanding of the perspectives and experiences that student-athletes have with the Career Game Plan program at Virginia Tech. In addition, the project sought to identify areas of improvement so that the program can further benefit the future student-athletes who participate. This qualitative study consisted of semi-structured interviews to identify the development of the student-athletes’ career skills. Data was collected by interviewing ten student-athletes who had most recently completed all four events of the Career Game Plan program. After research and analysis of the data, common themes emerged for the aspects of the program that are most valued by student-athletes, highlighting meaningful connections, quality communication, opportunities, and preparation for post-graduate life. The student-athletes also noted inconsistencies with their experience throughout the program and provided some suggestions that they felt would further enhance the student-athlete experience through this program. Interviews revealed that student-athletes truly value this opportunity that Virginia Tech provides for them, and they believe that all student-athletes should take advantage of it.