While this year’s seniors are just now deciding where to spend their next four years, Elle Conlin, 10, is two years ahead of the game.

On April 12, Conlin verbally committed to attending Boston University in fall of 2018, where she will play on their soccer team. While sophomore year may seem early to commit to a school, Conlin says that it’s not unheard of for Division 1 (D1) schools to scout years in advance.

“Top D1 schools fill their roster spots for 2018 recruits early, by summer of this year,” she said.

Conlin’s soccer career started at the age of four, when she joined a recreational soccer team. Since then, she’s played for multiple teams and programs, including Minnesota Thunder Academy, Elite Clubs National League and Minnesota’s Olympic Development Program. In addition, she’s played on the Mounds View varsity team since freshman year.

Last November, Conlin reached out to Boston University, inviting them to watch her December showcase in Florida. Her performance impressed recruiting scouts, who later contacted her coach.

“They came and expressed interest through my coach since I am a sophomore, and they cannot contact me directly,” said Conlin.

Encouraged by their enthusiasm, Conlin visited the school in January. She ended up falling in love with both the athletics and academics of Boston University.

“Boston University is a strong academic school and their soccer program is very competitive,” said Conlin. The school is ranked 48 out of 330 Division I teams, and the school has been the champions of the Patriot League, a northeastern college soccer division, for the past three years.

Following her visit, she continued to stay in contact with the coaches. They attended her next showcase in California in early April and offered her the opportunity to play for the school.

“After [my California showcase] I gave them a call, and they offered me a scholarship and spot on the roster,” she said.

Although she has verbally committed to attend Boston University, her letter of intent must wait until senior year. “I am not signed and will not be able to officially sign with them until senior year,” said Conlin. “With the verbal commitment, I can call and email them to keep in touch or visit the school.”

In the meantime, Conlin will continue her soccer career on the high school team and her off-season team, the Minnesota Thunder Academy. While she looks forward to being a Boston University Terrier, Conlin plans to pursue a different career after college. “I don’t want to play after college,” she said. “I want to move on and get a good job.”