Sports are a powerful social tool that brings people together and fosters a sense of community. They form connections that bring people from all walks of life together. Playing pick-up basketball at the gym was the quickest and easiest way for me to make friends as an international student at the University of Rochester. In fact, on my second day on campus, I made two friends who showed me around and gave me advice on how to live in Rochester.
As an undergraduate student majoring in electrical engineering and electronics, I had very difficult classes and occasionally had to deal with bad homework or midterm grades; my ego suffered as a result. Playing sports, I believe, taught me how to deal with failure and disappointment in life. I learned that I will not always get the results I desire, but that I must persevere and not give up. Sports instilled in me a positive attitude in which I view failure as an opportunity to learn how to pick myself up.
Furthermore, exercising is a io games great way to get away from the stressful college life of homework, presentations, and group projects. Sports, in fact, help students relax and reduce their anxiety. Personally, I believe I would go insane if I did not go to the gym at least three times per week. Physical activity is recommended by health care professionals as an essential component of any stress-management activity.