26: Same Division, Different Experiences — Are You Built for Ivy, Mid-Major, or Power Four? (Part 2)

In Part 2, Susan and Meredith move from experience to decision-making.They unpack how recruiting actually works across Ivy League, mid-major, and Power Four programs — including timelines, academic expectations, scholarships, financial aid, NIL, and rev share.Meredith explains the Ivy League academic index, why recruiting timelines move differently, and common misconceptions that cause families to rule out options too early. They also compare needs-based aid and scholarships, and explain why “more money” doesn’t always equal a better fit. This episode gives families clarity and language to make smarter, more grounded recruiting decisions — without panic, pressure, or comparison.Chapters00:00 – Which athletes thrive in different D1 environments03:00 – Power Four athlete traits vs Ivy League athlete traits06:00 – Independence, pressure, and compartmentalization09:30 – Recruiting priorities beyond volleyball skill12:00 – Evaluating potential vs current level14:30 – The Ivy League academic index explained18:00 – Recruiting timelines and calculated risks21:00 – Common Ivy League misconceptions23:30 – Financial aid vs athletic scholarships27:00 – Why Ivy League schools may be more affordable than expected30:30 – Power Four scholarships, rev share, and NIL34:00 – NIL vs rev share explained simply37:30 – Choosing based on values, not hype40:30 – “Would you still go there without volleyball?”43:30 – Why recruiting is a marathon, not a sprint46:30 – Final advice for athletes and familiesConnect with Susan:Check out the website: www.nxtvb.comFollow on Instagram + TikTok: @hey.susankQuick shoutout to our podcast sponsor University Athlete. The only volleyball-exclusive recruiting platform used by 95% of college coaches. It’s where athletes get seen, get evaluated, and get recruited. Plus it's free and only takes a couple of minutes to activate your profile. Click the link below to claim your free profile.CLAIM YOUR FREE PROFILE HEREIf you decide you want to upgrade to the All-Access pass be sure to use the code ‘NXTVB30’ to save 30% on your yearly membership. Subscription boxes are all the rave (we get it, they are FUN!) and we’ve developed one for the recruiting process that comes with 1:1 support in our new Set for Success Membership!Every Month as Member You Get to Choose from One of the Following for Support:🖥️ 1:1 ADVISING CALL with either Sonja, Jessie or Susan from the NXTVB team.🎥 HIGHLIGHT FILM professionally produced and done for you.🗣️ OUR TARGETED TAKE with detailed feedback on one specific part of your process, so it's worth your time and effort! 😎 PLUS SEASONAL OFFER...