Chris Giles was a two-year member of the Oxford College of Emory University men's program competing during the 2013-2014 and 2014-2015 campaigns. During his sophomore season, he was a key contributor to a team that won their first NJCAA Championship for Coach Pernilla Hardin.
Chris was an NJCAA National Champion at Flight 4 singles and Flight 2 doubles, which, earned him 1st team All-American honors.
We recently caught up with Chris to see what he is doing and discuss his experience at Emory Oxford College.
Q. What do you do now? Where do you live?
Live up in Boston, MA (where I'm originally from) and working for a consulting firm Private Equity Due Diligence, focusing on commercial due diligence.
Q. Who at Emory Oxford made an impact on your life?
Without a doubt, my tennis coach, Pernilla Hardin, had a profound impact on my life. Her coaching skills aside, it was her ability to inspire belief in her players, both on and off the court, that left a lasting impression on me.
Q. Outside of your professional career, what hobbies or interests do you like?
Still a big tennis fan (play and watch) and have picked up a bit of golf along the way.
Q. Is there any part of the Oxford student-athlete experience that has benefited you professionally?
Being a two-year campus, you're placed into leadership roles from the jump at Oxford. Freshman are immediately asked to contribute in a meaningful way and Sophomores are asked to lead the Freshman. The ability to handle pressure and work collaboratively with teammates during intense matches translated well into my professional environment, where teamwork and adaptability are highly valued.
Q. Any advice to Oxford student-athletes academically and/or athletically?
I would say cherish the time you have with your teammates, friends, and coaches. The two-year experience is unique and full of opportunities for personal growth and connection, but also limits the time you have on campus. Embrace the challenges on the field and in the classroom, and use them as stepping stones to become a better version of yourself. Make the most of your leadership roles and savor the valuable lessons you learn from both victories and setbacks. Enjoy every moment of your journey at Oxford College, as it will undoubtedly shape the path ahead.