A FAR is a member of the faculty at an NCAA member institution who has been designated by the institution to serve as a liaison between the institution and the athletics department, and as a representative of the institution in conference and NCAA affairs. The role of the FAR is to ensure that the academic institution establishes and maintains the appropriate balance between academics and intercollegiate athletics.
 
As we look to highlight those individuals on our member campuses, we want to bring attention to our FARs to showcase their efforts to build bridges between academics and athletics. These are professors who spend time with our student-athletes in the classroom and cheer them on at competition.
 
They play a vital role in the growth of our young people. Let’s get to know Dr. Jennifer Hallett from Young Harris College in today’s FAR spotlight.
 
Where did you go to undergrad/ grad school?
Michigan State University and The University of California, Santa Barbara, respectively.
 
Did you play a sport in college?
No, I didn't know it was an option! Title IX existed but my high school coaches never coached us on college recruitment.
 
How long have you been a FAR?
16 years
 
What is your favorite part of your job?
Helping student-athletes balance their roles.
 
In college what did you envision yourself doing for a career?
Once I abandoned the idea of being a veterinarian as a sophomore, I knew I'd be a professor.
 
What made you choose the school you work at now?
The family-like atmosphere among colleagues, the beautiful area, and the once-in-a-lifetime career opportunity to design and implement a brand-new major in communication studies.
 
What is one thing people don't know about you?
That I once was struck by lightning.
 
What makes Conference Carolinas a great conference to work with?
The people! Great communication and connections between various groups all to serve their member institutions and student-athletes. Great programming and opportunities!
 
What advice would you give current student athletes?
Get to know the resources on your campus, including faculty (especially the FARs). We all have specialized knowledge that you might not even know you can benefit from. Only through relationships can you have those "aha" conversations.
 
What advice would you give to graduating student-athletes?
Use your athletics experience to market yourself for post-college life. The experiences and skills you gain from athletics are marketable, valuable, and sought-after.
 
What is your most memorable moment while working at your school?
Being named a "Most Valuable Professor" by a graduating student-athlete who had never taken a class from me. My role as the FAR mattered to him, and I've never been prouder to be faculty athletics representative than at that moment.
 
If you could have dinner with anyone dead or alive, who would it be?
My mom. I'd apologize for all the times I rolled my eyes at her.
 
What is your favorite hobby?
Anything involving "down time." Self-care is my hobby.
 
Where do you see yourself in 5 years with your career?
It depends on the day, but still involved with athletics and academic advising in addition to classroom teaching.