We’re thrilled to announce that FirstPoint USA client, Charlie Hawkes, has confirmed his place and is committed to Arkansas State University. The rugby player is set to join the A-State Red Wolves roster this Fall. Here, Charlie shares with us, some information about his sporting background, how he and his family found the process of pursuing an American sports scholarship, and his plans for the future.
Hailing from West Somerset, Charlie is a student at Wellington School, where he is Captain of the school’s 1st XV. Charlie tells us that he has also represented Somerset County from U15-U18, as well as having represented Wellington School in XV’s and 7’s, and many regional competitions. Charlie adds that his favourite sporting memory to date was when he and the Wellington School’s Rugby XV beat Queen’s College, Taunton. The was the first time that Wellington had ever beaten Queen’s – a fantastic achievement for Charlie to be a part of!
Charlie tells us that his brother, James, has been to the States, and stayed at a number of universities whilst out there. He thought the American college experience would be a great fit and experience for Charlie, who then looked further into making this a reality.
After telling his parents about the opportunity to live and study in the US, Charlie tells us they were excited for him and the chances it would provide for him. However, Charlie notes that he and his family found the process of pursuing an American sports scholarship to be a challenging one. Stating, “It was difficult to choose the right option.”
In the end however, Charlie selected Arkansas State University; we asked him how he knew this was the right decision for him. He told us, “It was the best all-round option for me. As well as the rugby, the academic programmes and social scene seemed great to me.”
Upon beginning his life as an American student-athlete, Charlie tells us that he is most looking forward to travelling for matches, and the opportunity to explore the States.
Finally, we asked Charlie where he sees himself being in 10 years’ time. He states that he hopes to have completed a degree in Business Administration at Arkansas State, and hopes to be working for a sustainable business that will allow him to travel worldwide.
We’d like to thank Charlie for catching up with us. We’ll keep you updated on Charlie's progress throughout the scholarship process across our various social media platforms; Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Think you’ve got what it takes? Apply to FirstPoint USA today for your once in a lifetime opportunity to head to the States on a sports scholarship:
