Each spring, NCAA Division III institutions across the country come together to celebrate and recognize the impact of athletics and student-athletes on campus. 

As part of that celebration, we asked several student-athletes to give us their view of what it is like to be an NCAA Division III student-athlete at Martin Luther College.

Today's entry comes from Carson Oestreich, a sophomore multi-sport athlete who competes in football and track and field. Questions are in bold.

What are some of the most significant changes you have encountered in your individual transition from a HS athlete to becoming a Division III athlete?

One significant change was the transition from the atmosphere of high school events to events in college. It took a while to get used to a whole different level of competition at the collegiate level.

Martin Luther College is a member of the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference; can you describe what the competition is like in the UMAC?

The competition at the UMAC is perfect for the level of talent we have at MLC. I see how MLC can compete with anyone in our conference, making the competitions more exciting.

Division III has often been called the "Academic Division" of college athletics.  How do you as a student-athlete, balance your schedule for coursework and in season demands?

Balancing my coursework and athletics can be very difficult at times. The expectations academically are very high at MLC especially. I believe doing sports keeps me on top of my studies and helps me be more productive in school. Doing sports makes me utilize all the time I have intelligently.

Can you describe in your own words what it is like to be a Division III athlete at Martin Luther College?

Being an athlete at Martin Luther College at the D3 level means a lot to me. Students, including myself, are allowed to use our God-given talents in the classroom and on the stage of competition. We are given a chance to give God the glory as we compete to our best ability.

What do you like about being a Division III athlete?

I love being a D3 athlete because I can pursue the exact direction I want to lead concerning my future profession and play the sport I have a passion for. Living both of these worlds is a blessing that can be taken for granted.

What would you tell or what advice would you give to a Senior in High School about being a Division III athlete?

I would tell a high school student to expect to obtain lifelong memories with teammates as they compete together at the collegiate level. It is a big step up from high school, but this step makes the sport much more exciting to be a part of.