May 9, 2012
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By Doug Richards
UCFAthletics.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFAthletics.com) - A.J. Rompza is accustomed to a hectic schedule. Rompza balanced academics and athletics during his four-year stint as UCF's starting point guard, and even managed to write a book in his spare time.
Rompza's collegiate career may be over, but the Chicago native is still staying busy. Last week alone he earned his bachelor's degree, served as principal for a day at a middle school, accepted an opportunity to play basketball in China later this month and worked on his plans to finalize his second book.
As someone who rarely stays idle, Rompza is relishing each moment.
"I am enjoying every single day. Some people take three months off after college, but ever since the season ended, I have been working on my goals. I have been working on my dreams. I think that if you take a day off, you are losing. I just want to continue to pursue my dreams," he said.
Rompza provided UCF fans with dozens of memorable moments inside the UCF Arena as a player, but his proudest achievement inside of the building may have come Saturday morning when he earned his degree in four years.
"I definitely think that graduating will be up there with some of the great wins we've had," he said. "This is a great accomplishment to graduate in four years. It is a great feeling, not only for me, but for my whole family."
Rompza's passion for education was on full display Thursday when he visited Corner Lake Middle School near campus. He had the chance to interact with students and spoke to classes about the importance of excelling academically and goal setting.
Rompza signed autographs for students and staff members and also informed them of his time at UCF, and the importance of higher education.
"That was one of the best times that I have had," Rompza said. "It was great. I had so much fun and hopefully impacted some of the kids' lives. Some of them maybe were not thinking of going to college, but maybe they will now."
Rompza has plenty of post-college plans, including organizing a youth basketball camp in July, but he will also continue to pursue his dream of playing professionally later this month. He has been invited to visit China and play with other former U.S. college players against national teams from Asia. The tour will allow Rompza to show off his talents in front of professional scouts and coaches.
"I think it is a great opportunity. I jumped at the opportunity. Hopefully it will open doors for me," he said.