What are some good D3 colleges for student-athletes?

I'm a high school junior looking to continue playing my sport in college, but I also want to prioritize academics. I've been considering D3 schools because of their balance between athletics and education. Could anyone recommend some good D3 colleges that I should look into?

Absolutely! Division III schools are known for their balance between academics and athletics, offering student-athletes a well-rounded college experience. Here are a few DIII colleges that have both strong athletic programs and excellent academics:

1. Amherst College (Amherst, MA) - A top liberal arts college with a highly competitive athletic program and a small, close-knit community.

2. Williams College (Williamstown, MA) - Another highly regarded liberal arts institution, Williams has a strong athletic program that competes at a high level in multiple sports.

3. Pomona College (Claremont, CA) - As part of the Claremont Colleges consortium, Pomona offers excellent academics along with competitive athletic teams.

4. Swarthmore College (Swarthmore, PA) - Known for its rigorous academics and vibrant intellectual community, Swarthmore also fields competitive athletic teams in numerous sports.

5. Washington University in St. Louis (St. Louis, MO) - WashU offers a rich combination of strong academics and competitive athletics, allowing student-athletes to excel both in and out of the classroom.

6. University of Chicago (Chicago, IL) - UChicago, while known for its highly demanding academics, also has a successful DIII athletics program and encourages students to be well-rounded.

7. Bowdoin College (Brunswick, ME) - This small liberal arts college is home to a welcoming community, excellent academics, and a strong athletic program.

8. Middlebury College (Middlebury, VT) - With an emphasis on academics and a storied history in sports like hockey and skiing, Middlebury offers student-athletes a balanced experience.

9. Tufts University (Medford, MA) - A strong research university, Tufts prides itself on its commitment to athletics and academic excellence, allowing student-athletes to pursue both passions.

10. Wesleyan University (Middletown, CT) - Wesleyan has a rich athletic tradition and competitive teams, along with a diverse academic environment that encourages intellectual exploration.

These colleges not only provide strong athletic programs in Division III but also emphasize the importance of academics. As you research these schools, be sure to consider factors such as location, size, majors offered, and available resources to ensure that you find a college that best fits your needs and interests. Good luck with your search!