by 
Renard Miles, II is a native of Jackson, Tennessee, and a graduate of the University of Memphis with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice and Austin Peay State University with a Master of Science in Management. He is currently working on a Doctor of Philosophy in Learning and Leadership from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Presently, Renard serves as the Assistant Director of Career and Employer Development at the University of Tennessee at Martin. In this role, he oversees the day-to-day operations of both the Career Development and Employer Relations units. Renard also has experience working in secondary education and nonprofit organizations. Renard enjoys both learning from students as well as sharing what he has learned from his professional experiences. In his free time, Renard enjoys spending time with his family and be serving as an active volunteer with his fraternity, Sigma Phi Epsilon. His hobbies include traveling and group fitness exercises.
How did you get into the Career Services profession?
I started my career in Career Services at the University of Memphis as a Career Peer Educator. At that time, I had no inkling of what career services were, let alone what they did for students. I vividly remember one of my instructors asked me if I was looking for an opportunity to work on campus. Hesitantly, I said maybe and a couple of weeks later, I found myself working in the Office of Career Services. To my surprise, that was eight years ago, and to this day, I am still grateful that I accepted her offer.
Describe your SoACE Experience. How did you get involved and how has that experience influenced you? (feel free to elaborate on your current role or past roles)
When I first became active in SoACE four years ago, I was very shy and intimidated by the process. I did not know anyone, and on top of that, I had moved to a new university, so everything felt like a rollercoaster. Though all of that played a part in my initial experience, one thing remained true: I wanted to get involved. Thankfully, everyone I came into contact with was very welcoming and nice, and they encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone. During my second year, I took several individuals’ advice, and I joined the Employer Relations Knowledge Group (ERKG) and became the Assistant Program Coordinator for Webinars and Virtual Professional Development. I served in that role before later moving up to the Program Coordinator for Webinars and Virtual Professional Development. After having some transitions within our KG, I was presented with the opportunity to serve in my current role as Chair of the ERKG. Reflecting on my experiences reminded me of the importance of getting involved. Had I not listened to my supervisor and colleagues from SoACE, I would not be as involved as I am today. SoACE has impacted my professional career greatly, and I am extremely grateful for the numerous opportunities the organization has given me.
What advice do you have for new professionals who aspire to get more involved in the profession?
Do not be shy and chase your professional goals and aspirations. SoACE is a unique organization, and we encourage all of those who seek to grow to be involved. Lastly, do not be afraid to ask questions on how to get involved. Your SoACE experience is what you make it.
What is your favorite quote?
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
– Nelson Mandela
How have the relationships you have built over the years impacted your career?
The relationships that I have built within SoACE have provided me with me some of my closest friends, and it has given me several additional networks and resources that I can use throughout my professional career. From calling a colleague about programming questions to asking a friend how we can better serve our student-athletes, these opportunities would not have been a reality without my SoACE relationships.
What is a unique fact about you?
I am a certified cycling instructor. Over the past seven months, I vowed to accomplish a new goal, and becoming a certified fitness instructor was one.
You can connect with Renard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renardmiles/
