International Development Academy’s College Placement

International Development Academy’s College Placement

At the International Development Academy, we are dedicated to providing our student-athletes with the best opportunities for collegiate placement. Through our strategic partnership with BRUSA Sports, we offer a comprehensive College Placement Service included in the standard tuition at all three of our academies.

Meet Michael Michalidis, Our College Placement Coordinator

Leading our College Placement Service is Michael Michalidis, a seasoned professional with a rich background in both UK and US collegiate soccer. As an international player who transitioned to playing college soccer in the US, Michael brings invaluable firsthand experience to his role. Founder of BRUSA Sports, he is uniquely positioned to offer exceptional guidance, helping players and their families navigate the intricate college placement process.

The College Placement Process

Our College Placement Service begins with a thorough onboarding session. Michael meets with the player and their family to understand their goals and set realistic expectations. This personalized approach ensures that each player receives tailored advice and support throughout their journey.

Key Components of the College Placement Process:

1. Goal Discovery and Expectation Setting: Michael works closely with players to identify their aspirations and establish achievable targets.
2. Film and Communication: Recognizing the critical importance of visibility and communication, Michael assists players in creating standout highlight reels and crafting effective emails to coaches.
3. Resource Access: All players gain access to an app loaded with valuable resources, including information on colleges, coaches, and division-specific details.
4. NCAA and NAIA Clearance: Michael guides players through the necessary steps to gain eligibility for NCAA and NAIA participation.
5. Direct Coach Contact: Leveraging his extensive network of over 500 college coaches, Michael can sometimes facilitate direct connections between players and coaches.
6. Visa Guidance: International players receive essential guidance on navigating the visa process.

Premium College Placement Service

For families seeking a more hands-on approach, we offer a Premium College Placement Service for an additional fee. This premium option includes all the benefits of the standard service, with the added advantage of Michael actively making calls and sending emails on the player’s behalf. His well-established connections and expanding community network significantly enhance the chances of securing a coveted college spot.

Post-Placement Support

At IDA, our commitment to our players extends beyond college placement. In collaboration with BRUSA Sports, we provide ongoing support to ensure our players thrive in their college careers. This continuous support helps players remain confident in their college decisions and career paths.

Success Stories

Our alumni have been placed at some of the top colleges in the country, including:

• University of California, Berkeley
• Virginia Tech
• NC State
• University of Dayton
• Amherst College
• Gonzaga University
• Rollins College
• Cornell University

Our College Placement Service, led by Michael Michalidis and powered by BRUSA Sports, is a testament to IDA’s commitment to excellence and the future success of our student-athletes. With personalized advice, extensive resources, and unwavering support, our students are well-equipped to achieve their collegiate soccer dreams.

For more success stories, visit IDA Alumni.