A Fullback's Journey at Rice University: Balancing Football, Academics and Business Aspirations

Meet Charles (Geron) Hargon

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Team and position:
Football and Fullback

Graduating year:
2024

Where are you from?
Shreveport, Louisiana

What do you love about football?
I love that it brings people together from different backgrounds to unite in the chase for a common goal and purpose. It truly is a team game. Everyone on the field has to play as one to come out victorious.

Who do you admire?
I admire my mom. Her love and support through everything means the world to me. She is truly the strongest person that I know.

Why did you select Rice University?
I selected Rice University because it gave me a great opportunity to pursue a world-class education while playing Division I football. The coaches and professors who I met during the recruiting process were very transparent and honest, which I really appreciated.

What do you love most about being a student at Rice University?
I love how the professors push you to be the greatest version of yourself while also being accommodating and supportive. The professors do a phenomenal job of getting to know you as a person and encouraging you to push yourself beyond what you think your limits are.

What has been a highlight for you as a Rice athlete in the past year?
My highlight was when we clinched bowl eligibility for the second year in a row with a win over Florida Atlantic University. It is only the second time since 1960 that Rice has made consecutive bowl appearances. It's cool to be part of history. 

Why did you select the business major?
I selected the business major because I wanted to surround myself with some of the
brightest business minds. Whether it's finance or a management-focused class, I knew that I would be challenged to learn new ideas and expand my knowledge. 

What internships have you had?
During my time at Rice, I've held multiple internships. Last summer, I worked at Texas Capital Bank as a corporate banking intern. This was an incredible experience and I was able to put a lot of the concepts that I had learned in class to the test while expanding my knowledge of the banking industry. In the spring, I interned with the Rice Athletic Office where I worked on a diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) review framework submitted to the NCAA.

Two summers ago, I interned with the Houston Dynamo, working in business development. It was exciting to work with a professional sports team. In the spring of 2022, I worked for the Rice Development Office, learning the ins and outs of fundraising at Rice University. 

What advice do you have for prospective students?
Coming to Rice is one of the best decisions I've ever made. The love and support I've received during my time here is truly incredible. Believe in yourself and never put limitations on what you can do. It's easy to get intimidated by class rigor or other students but trust in yourself. Your professors are there to support you as well.