I went to a football school, which meant that I went to a university that served up education and was simultaneously operating a sports franchise.

The quote “I went to a football school, which meant that I went to a university that served up education and was simultaneously operating a sports franchise.” by Susan Orlean reflects on the dual identity of many American universities where academics and athletics intersect. Orlean uses the term “football school” to describe institutions where sports, particularly football, are not just extracurricular activities but major enterprises with significant cultural and financial influence. In her view, these universities balance the mission of providing education with running what amounts to a commercial sports franchise.

By calling attention to this dual role, Orlean highlights a tension in higher education: the pursuit of intellectual growth versus the pursuit of athletic prestige and revenue. In football schools, the visibility and profitability of sports programs often rival or even overshadow academic priorities. Her words suggest a critical awareness of how education can become entangled with entertainment and business, shaping the culture and reputation of universities in ways that go beyond the classroom.

The origin of this perspective lies in Orlean’s career as a journalist and author, known for her keen observations of American culture. Having attended the University of Michigan, a school with a powerhouse football program, she experienced firsthand the strong integration of athletics into university life. Her reflections mirror broader debates in the United States about the role of college sports, student-athletes, and the balance between academic integrity and athletic enterprise.

In essence, Orlean’s quote underscores the complexity of the American university system. It suggests that higher education in such environments is not just about books, lectures, and research, but also about the spectacle and business of sports. Her words invite reflection on whether this blending strengthens or distracts from the true mission of a university—to educate and prepare students for life beyond campus.