Division I volleyball isn’t one experience — and treating it like it is can lead families down the wrong path.In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Susan sits down with Meredith Schamun, a Division I coach who has coached at the Ivy League, mid-major, and Power Four levels. Meredith brings a rare, behind-the-scenes perspective on what actually separates these environments beyond the label of “D1.”They break down how time commitments, training windows, academic priorities, and daily expectations differ across Ivy League and Power Four programs — and why many athletes are surprised by what Division I really demands. This episode helps families zoom out and understand the landscape before making assumptions about where an athlete will truly thrive.Chapters00:00 – Why Division I is not one experience02:00 – Meredith’s coaching journey across D1 environments05:00 – How Ivy League volleyball compares to other D1 programs08:15 – Time commitments: Ivy League vs Power Four11:00 – Summer training and reporting differences14:00 – Shorter seasons and limited training windows17:00 – What surprises athletes most about Ivy League volleyball20:30 – Power Four expectations and daily demands23:30 – Adjusting as a freshman at a Power Four program26:30 – Travel, holidays, and life balance29:30 – Independence and self-management at each level33:00 – Who tends to thrive in Ivy League environments36:30 – Who thrives in Power Four environments39:30 – Pressure, expectations, and culture differencesJoin Susan for a monthly recruiting lesson January-June inside the Volleyball Recruiting School! Become a subscriber here. Or register for January's class all about highlight film here! Click here for a discount on our go-to, and the hands-down best and most affordable Recruiting Tool + Software we recommend every baller has to increase her efficiency in all that she does 👉🏼 PRODUCTIVE RECRUIT Want to support your baller in getting her process started and have an experienced volleyball recruiting advisor walk her through it? Enroll in RECRUIT READY: LAUNCH 🚀 Need help getting unstuck in the recruiting process? Apply for a RECRUITING INTENSIVE. Connect with Susan: Check out the website: www.nxtvb.com Follow on Instagram: @hey.susank P.S. If you’re an athlete with big goals, a parent who wants to support the journey, or a coach who cares deeply about your players, this podcast was made for you. Hit subscribe and come grow with us.

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