Weston School and Itchen College student Joe Prince-Wright who graduated from University of Pittsburg in May 2011 with Honors in English and Communications has been the focus of the Fulbright Commission's attention. The former Southampton based South Counties Colleges player is yet another Pass4Soccer success story.

Asked why he chose to study in the US, Joe said, “ The opportunity to continue playing soccer at the top level for four years whilst also completing a Degree were an irresistible combination. Although University of Pittsburgh was a World top 75 University, I was still taken aback by the incredible facilities it offered, both athletically and academically. I knew that going to the US would enhance me as a student, an athlete and a person but another major reason was the encouragement and help from Barry Poole at Pass4 Soccer about the experience of studying in the US. He said that if I made the most of it, it would be a life changing experience.  It certainly has been.”

Joe has told Pass4Soccer about 2 of his many experiences. “On the pitch, scoring two goals in the Big East playoffs widely regarded as the best university soccer league in the World was a great achievement. The team was 2-0 down, and I scored twice, including the winner with two minutes left to complete a 3-2 comeback! Off the pitch I worked as an Intern for Fox Sports Television in Pittsburgh when the Steelers won the Super Bowl and that was an experience of a life time.

At the moment I am a staff writer for the Pittsburgh Penguins NHL ice hockey team. To report everyday on their practices and games is a wonderful opportunity, and to write for one of the most respected and largest franchises in the NHL has given me lots of experience in the journalism field. 

My top tip for other UK students applying to American universities would be to revise and practice the SAT or ACT tests as much as you can. The practice tests are the best way to prepare. Also, it is important that you have all of your visa, university and immigration documents in one place. Put them all in a folder together so you don’t lose them. Being organized with stuff like that really does make everything a lot less stressful.

Through the introduction of Pass4Soccer I received a fully funded scholarship which worked out to roughly $35,000 a year. I will also be eternally grateful to the Pitts Head Coach Joe Luxbacher for providing me with this opportunity. Mind you I have worked hard dedicating myself to soccer and schoolwork. Every day in school I worked as hard as I possibly could to justify the faith shown in me.

Over the years I have kept in touch with Barry at Pass4 Soccer and I know he is as proud as my parents are of my achievements. Pass4Soccer I know attract top US soccer coaches to their showcases.

If anyone seeks to gain some kind of scholarship I would tell them to contact Pass4Soccer and grab the opportunities they generate with both hands. Provided players put in the hard work they will never regret the experience.”

Source

Pass4 Office

July 2011