SoccerWire is publishing Q&A articles with players who have Featured Profiles in the SoccerWire Recruiting Directory. The series allows players to share their stories on the college recruiting process, playing the game at the international level, travel and high school soccer, and their passion for the beautiful game.
In this edition we will showcase defender Aris Yu, who plays for Bay Area Surf in the ECNL, and has verbally committed to play for Brown University in 2028.
What made you decide to verbally commit to Brown University?
I chose Brown University because I was drawn to the genuine, supportive, and competitive culture of the program. From my conversations with the coaches and the players I’ve met, I could feel that Brown is a place where people truly care about each other while pushing one another to become better every day. I was especially inspired by the team’s mindset, ambition, and commitment to competing for championships at the highest level. I want to be part of a group that challenges me to grow not only as a soccer player, but also as a teammate and person.
Beyond soccer, I love Brown’s campus, its open curriculum, and the freedom it gives students to explore their interests. I can truly see myself thriving at Brown and having an amazing four years both on and off the field.
What was the recruiting process like and what did you learn about yourself while going through it?
The recruiting process was definitely nerve racking at times, but it was also really exciting and rewarding at the same time. I enjoyed meeting different coaches, learning about their programs, and having conversations with them over the phone and in person. Throughout the process, I learned that finding the right people and environment mattered a lot to me. I didn’t want to choose a school just because of its name or reputation, and I wanted a place where I genuinely connected with the coaches, players, and overall culture. Recruiting also comes with a lot of uncertainty, so I learned to be patient, stay confident in myself, and keep working even when I didn’t know exactly how everything would turn out.
How do you feel your strengths on the field will help the Bears?
I think one of my biggest strengths is my ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball. I’m comfortable defending in important moments, but I also like stepping into the attack and helping create opportunities going forward. I think my athleticism, competitiveness, and ability to play in transition will allow me to help the Bears in high pressure moments and contribute wherever the team needs me.
What are your favorite subjects in school and what do you think you would like to study in college?
My favorite subjects are history, English, and math. Right now, I’m interested in possibly studying economics and applied math, but I’m also interested in exploring the pre-med track. One of the things I love about Brown is the Open Curriculum, because it will give me the freedom to explore those different interests before deciding exactly what I want to pursue.
What has your experience been like playing for Bay Area Surf in the ECNL?
Playing for Bay Area Surf has been an amazing experience. I’ve been surrounded by such a great group of teammates and a coaching staff that genuinely cares about every player individually. It’s a really competitive environment where everyone pushes each other to improve every day. My teammates have become some of my closest friends, and the experiences we’ve had together have helped me grow both as a player and as a person.
What are your favorite pair of cleats that you have ever owned?
Mizunos
If you could give one piece of advice to a younger player that wants to play at a high level, what would it be?
Put in the extra work, especially when no one is watching. Talent is important, but the small things you consistently do outside of team practices are what really add up over time. You also have to be patient and trust the process, because improvement doesn’t always happen immediately.
Is there anyone that you would like to give a shoutout to who has helped you both on and off of the field?
My family, especially my parents. They’ve supported me through every part of my soccer journey: the practices, games, travel, injuries, recruiting process, and everything in between. They’ve made so many sacrifices for me and have always encouraged me no matter what, so I’m extremely grateful for everything they’ve done to help me get to this point.
