Rice University Athletics
Beyond the Hedges Prepares Rice Student-Athletes for Professional Success
3/2/2026 10:01:00 PM | General, R Association
Mock Interviews and Networking
Rice University student-athletes gained hands-on experience in professional interviewing and networking at Beyond the Hedges, a career development event hosted by the SOAR Office of Student-Athlete Development and Letterwinner Engagement.
The evening began with student-athletes receiving professional headshots before rotating to assigned interview tables organized by industry and career interests. Athletics leadership welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of preparing student-athletes for life beyond competition through intentional professional development opportunities.
"Beyond the Hedges ensures our student-athletes gain real interview experience before it matters most, equipping them with the confidence and skills needed for life after sport and life after Rice." said Gillian Burns, Assistant Director of Student-Athlete Development and Letterwinner Engagement.
The program featured three rounds of eight-minute mock interviews conducted in a speed-interview format. Professionals evaluated student-athletes on response relevance, clarity, confidence and composure, and self-awareness, providing written feedback after each round. Student-athletes also reflected on their performance in their newly gifted padfolios, noting strengths and identifying areas for growth.
"I am very grateful to have attended Beyond the Hedges this year, as it gave me the opportunity to practice my interview skills and build confidence in a professional setting, helping prepare me for future career interviews. The chance to network with professionals who are currently in roles I aspire to pursue was both insightful and extremely beneficial," said Dayo Tennyson, soccer student-athlete and first-time attendee.
The mock interviews were designed as a low-pressure learning environment, reinforcing that the objective was growth and preparation—not perfection.
The event was supported by Thrivent, Capco, and BELFOR Property Restoration, whose partnership helped make the evening possible. Representatives from Thrivent also shared information about career pathways and opportunities within their organization.
Following the interview rounds, student-athletes and professionals connected during an open networking reception. Many participants used this time to continue conversations, practice professional communication, and expand their networks. As a result, several student-athletes left the event with follow-up interviews for internships, invitations for a specialized medical school tour, and scheduled coffee chats with industry leaders.
The SOAR Office extends its sincere thanks to all professionals who volunteered their time and expertise, as well as to event sponsors Thrivent, Capco, and BELFOR, for their continued support of Rice student-athletes and their professional development.
Browse photos from the event HERE.
The evening began with student-athletes receiving professional headshots before rotating to assigned interview tables organized by industry and career interests. Athletics leadership welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of preparing student-athletes for life beyond competition through intentional professional development opportunities.
"Beyond the Hedges ensures our student-athletes gain real interview experience before it matters most, equipping them with the confidence and skills needed for life after sport and life after Rice." said Gillian Burns, Assistant Director of Student-Athlete Development and Letterwinner Engagement.
The program featured three rounds of eight-minute mock interviews conducted in a speed-interview format. Professionals evaluated student-athletes on response relevance, clarity, confidence and composure, and self-awareness, providing written feedback after each round. Student-athletes also reflected on their performance in their newly gifted padfolios, noting strengths and identifying areas for growth.
"I am very grateful to have attended Beyond the Hedges this year, as it gave me the opportunity to practice my interview skills and build confidence in a professional setting, helping prepare me for future career interviews. The chance to network with professionals who are currently in roles I aspire to pursue was both insightful and extremely beneficial," said Dayo Tennyson, soccer student-athlete and first-time attendee.
The mock interviews were designed as a low-pressure learning environment, reinforcing that the objective was growth and preparation—not perfection.
The event was supported by Thrivent, Capco, and BELFOR Property Restoration, whose partnership helped make the evening possible. Representatives from Thrivent also shared information about career pathways and opportunities within their organization.
Following the interview rounds, student-athletes and professionals connected during an open networking reception. Many participants used this time to continue conversations, practice professional communication, and expand their networks. As a result, several student-athletes left the event with follow-up interviews for internships, invitations for a specialized medical school tour, and scheduled coffee chats with industry leaders.
The SOAR Office extends its sincere thanks to all professionals who volunteered their time and expertise, as well as to event sponsors Thrivent, Capco, and BELFOR, for their continued support of Rice student-athletes and their professional development.
Browse photos from the event HERE.
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