Success Story: Abran Kooistra’s Journey to the U.S.
As recently featured in RondOm Vandaag, 17-year-old Abran Kooistra from Leeuwarden has earned his cum laude havo diploma and is now set to join the North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) soccer program. This opportunity allows him to pursue both his athletic and academic dreams at once.
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Abran in Brief
- Academic Achievement: Graduated havo cum laude.
- Athletic Profile: Left-footed fullback, known for composure on the ball and relentless work rate.
- Dream: To play college soccer at a high level while preparing for a career in international primary education.
The Dual Ambition
Abran has long aspired to become a teacher at an international pabo (primary education college), driven by his desire to make a difference in underserved communities worldwide. The U.S. college system offers the perfect blend: two years at a junior college leading to an Associate Degree, plus credits that count toward his future education degree in the Netherlands.
How We Supported Abran
Through +31 Sports, Abran was connected with several U.S. coaches whose programs matched his sporting level and academic plans. We guided him through the scholarship application process, helped him evaluate each offer, and ensured he found a college that aligned with both his playing style and his study requirements.
The Outcome
After reviewing six interested programs, Abran chose NIACC in Iowa’s NJCAA Division II. Beginning this September, he will:
- Train daily under a coach who has revitalized the program.
- Compete in at least two official matches per week.
- Enroll in courses designed to transfer seamlessly into his international pabo curriculum back home.
Looking Ahead
Upon completing his two-year program and earning an Associate Degree, Abran plans to transfer to a four-year university—potentially on a full-ride scholarship—to finish his bachelor’s degree. Ultimately, he will return to the Netherlands to complete his pabo studies and embark on a teaching career, enriched by his international experience.
Your Turn
Interested in combining high-level sport with a solid academic pathway in the U.S.? Schedule a free consultation to explore your options, or learn more here:
- Soccer & Study in the USA → https://www.plus31sports.com/soccer/college-soccer-usa
- Scholarship Overview → https://www.plus31sports.com/soccer/soccer-scholarships
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