Inaugural Baker Class Visits Campus
Members of the inaugural class of undergraduate students at the Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs (Baker School) visited the Knoxville campus during the University of Tennessee’s s Division of Student Success Vol 103 experience earlier this month.
In the morning, students and their families viewed academic spaces, dining facilities, and residence halls across campus. While at the student union, they learned about resources that will be available to them during their time on Rocky Top.
Students and families then made their way to the Baker School for an afternoon session specifically designed for the public affairs major to get to know the Baker School and its faculty and staff. Dean Marianne Wanamaker and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs John Scheb welcomed everyone and noted the excitement of this inaugural class. Speaking on the legacy of Senator Howard H. Baker Jr., the school’s namesake, they introduced Baker’s core principles that will guide the curriculum, events, and programs over the students’ next four years—confidence in America, finding common ground, and respect for opposing viewpoints.
After the welcome session, students went to one of the classrooms for a presentation on navigating college transition. They heard from members of the UTK Academic Success Center, who provided an overview of academic coaching and explained why it is necessary for all students. They also had an opportunity to meet with another member of their Vol Success Team.
At the same time, family members met with faculty and staff to learn about what their child’s experience at the Baker School will be like. Director of Undergraduate Studies Jon Ring gave an overview of our curriculum and how it will prepare the students for future success. They learned about the Baker School’s accelerated graduate program and the other student engagement opportunities available to them, such as our Congressional Internship Program and Washington Fellows Program. Parents also heard from a current student and alumni about their firsthand experiences as Baker Students.
Everyone came back together to participate in the Cooperation Game, an interactive opportunity that foreshadows the kinds of classroom activities that students can expect. At the end of the afternoon, students were able to vote on their upcoming Baker School Inaugural class t-shirt and learn about the next steps for the summer to prepare them for August. Students were provided materials to take home that covered everything presented to them throughout the day.
For students and their families who missed this opportunity, you can learn more here.