Meet The Team

We believe every student has a unique story - and our dedicated coaches, advisors, and educators are committed to helping them share it. From test prep to essay coaching, academic performance to mindset support, each member of our team brings a specialized skill set and a passion for student success. Get to know our team below.

Christina Hardin

Program Manager

Christina Hardin brings a wealth of diverse experience across multiple industries, combining her expertise in business administration, event management, and education. After earning a degree in Business Administration from James Madison University, Christina began her career at Pepsico, where she gained invaluable corporate experience. She then transitioned into hospitality, working as an Event Manager for Kimpton Hotels and Restaurants, where she honed her skills in organizing and executing events.

Christina and her family relocated to North Carolina, where she shifted her career focus. She joined the Finance area at Kenan-Flagler Business School and eventually became the Program Manager for the Center of Excellence in Investment Management. It was during this time that Christina discovered her passion for helping young adults navigate their future paths, which led her to The College Edit.

At The College Edit, Christina plays a vital role in supporting the operations of the business. She leverages her diverse experience to help ensure that the team can deliver personalized, holistic guidance to students and families. By contributing to the smooth running of the organization, Christina helps the team fulfill its mission of empowering students and building stronger futures for the next generation.

Jamie Smith

Math Content Specialist

Jamie Smith is a graduate of the University of Delaware with a degree in Math Education. Originally from New Jersey, she taught eighth grade in Chestertown, Maryland, before relocating to North Carolina to join her now-husband, Caleb. Jamie spent seven years teaching high school math in Chapel Hill Schools before leaving the classroom to focus on raising her family.

Currently, Jamie owns and operates Core Computations, LLC, a private tutoring company dedicated to helping middle and high school students deepen their understanding of math. She specializes in all math content areas up to and including Pre-Calculus and is well-versed in all North Carolina standards for these subjects.

In her free time, Jamie enjoys watching sports, reading, and spending time with her husband, Caleb, and their three boys: Carter (7), Theodore (5), and Landon (2). She is thrilled to join Gina and The College Edit team!

Chris Clark

Chris Clark is a native North Carolinian and a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Chris came to education after a decade in sports media and has spent the last 15 years teaching Math and Social Studies. He has taught in Harnett, Chatham and Wake counties and has tutored students from middle school to Pre-Calculus.

Chris spends his time cooking for his family, being outside, and driving to as many soccer games as possible for his 13 year old son and 10 year old daughter.

Mike Charles

Content Specialist & Essay Coach

Mike Charles is a dedicated educator in Chatham County Schools, where he thoughtfully incorporates writing instruction into all of his classes. Through this approach, he has spent countless hours exploring the effectiveness of writing instruction and reviewing a wide range of student work, from informal “braindumps” to structured, research-based essays.

In 2012, Mike earned his master’s degree in social studies education from the University of South Carolina. His commitment to teaching was recognized with the Preston Award for Exemplary Achievements in Secondary Education.

Mike is married to fellow educator Ashley Charles, and together they have two children, Craig and Charlotte.