NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Part of an ongoing series, VUCommodores.com catches up with former Vanderbilt tennis standout Georgina Sellyn.
Sellyn, a native of Scotland, finished her Vandy career in 2017 and was the SEC Scholar Athlete of the Year that year and in 2016.
Sellyn recently took some time for a Q&A to update her life and career:
VUCommodores.com: What is your occupation these days?
Sellyn: “I was working at Vanderbilt Children’s hospital doing neurosurgical clinical research. I was also the volunteer assistant coach for the Vandy tennis team and teaching tennis lessons. I will begin medical school this July.”
How has COVID-19 affected you and your family?
“Unfortunately, it has caused a large financial strain. I no longer have a job because of it, so it’s definitely been financially difficult. Some of my family live in Scotland and I was planning to visit them before school started but I won’t be able to now.”
What has been the hardest adjustment?
“The hardest adjustment has been financially being super diligent now that I can’t work and also not being able to see all of my friends and family regularly.”
What has been the most pleasant surprise in these circumstances?
“I have become quite a puzzle expert. I am starting my 10th one. It has also given me plenty of time to workout at home. I don’t have an excuse now.”
Any good books, movies or games to recommend?
“Well, I do recommend some jigsaw puzzles. I am also a huge Shark Tank fan – hours seem to fly by when it’s on.”
What was your all-time favorite moment as a Commodore?
“That’s a hard question because there are so many. Winning the national championship was one of the most surreal and incredible moments, but I probably would have to pick when we won the regular-season SEC championship on mine and Sydney Cambell’s senior day. We were just so excited to have been able to finally win this and especially on our senior day with friends and family around.”
What do you miss most in the sports world right now?
“Definitely tennis. I’m really sad the grand slams were canceled.”
Any advice or words of wisdom to Commodore Nation to help us get through this?
“I know this is such a difficult time for everyone, but you’re not alone. We are all here to support each other and I look forward to seeing everyone again on the other side of this.”
Anything else you’d like to say about your time at Vanderbilt or what you’ve been up to since you left?
“My decision to go to Vanderbilt has changed my life. To have the opportunity to play under two of the best college coaches, alongside a team of incredible girls, and earn a degree from such a prestigious school – it’s a dream come true. I look back on my time with such fond memories and will always cheer for the success of this team!”
