Cindy Baruch is a former collegiate and professional basketball player. Baruch played one season at George Washington University before transferring to George Mason University, where she holds multiple seasons and career records. After her collegiate career, she continued to the professional scene, first trying out for the Washington Mystics but unfortunately got cut in the last rounds. She decided to head overseas to play in France for two years before coming back to the states.

2aDays: What is the best piece of advice that you can offer a student-athlete that is going through the recruiting process?

Take your time. Too many athletes feel the need to commit right away to big-name schools before taking any other visits.

2aDays: What is something you would tell a recruit to do and not do?

One thing I would suggest a recruit does is on college visits is ask as many questions as you can. Get a complete understanding of the school so you will be able to see if you like every aspect of it or you want to move on to the next. I understand that social media is now very popular, so my suggestion for a recruit is to make sure you are always on your best behavior.

2aDays: What type of questions should a recruit ask coaches on a visit?

Do not be afraid to pull out a list of questions. Some examples may include, “What position do you see me playing? How many people are you recruiting for my position? Where do you rank me on your list of possible recruits for position ____? How many types of scholarships are available for my class? Are scholarships for one year or four years?”

What is the biggest difference you notice in the recruiting process?  

When I was getting recruited, there were little to no NCAA rules, so the colleges and universities that I visited were able to give me as many benefits as I wanted. I walked away with so much gear!

How would you describe the transition from high school to college?

I think there is a huge difference between high school and college, not only with basketball but also with any sport. The one I noticed most was the difference in pace. College sports are fast-paced, not just with the physical part but mental. For example, you have to pick up plays 2x quicker than you would have in high school.

When do you think the appropriate time is to commit?

I think that it varies from athlete to athlete. Don't think that you have to rush the process. The time will come when you feel most comfortable making a decision.

Is the recruiting process similar to how it was when you were going through it?

It is nothing compared to when I was getting recruited. There is so much more competition and fight to get the attention of a college coach.

Would you have used Locker Room Talk as a resource if it were available at the time?

When I was getting recruited, the Internet was not a thing, so having the internet as a resource would have been great. I am just now hearing about 2aDays and think it is an amazing resource for all student-athletes to understand the icing that is going to top their layered cake. I definitely would have used it.

What is the funniest thing that happened to you when you were out on the field/court?

When I played, I was a PG, so I brought the ball up to call our offense. When I was dribbling up, I tripped on my own feet, turning the ball over allowing the other team to get an easy layup. It was so embarrassing because I heard multiple people in the stands laughing at me.

* Originally published on October 28, 2017, by LRT Staff