About Baker Scholars
Since its inception in 2004, the Baker Scholar program has consistently attracted the University of Tennessee’s most academically gifted, politically curious students by offering a unique and meaningful opportunity to engage in public policy and research. Baker Scholars are not only given exclusive access to guest lecturers ranging from international ambassadors to Supreme Court justices, they often drive Baker Center programming and assist with conferences featuring top-ranked experts in the fields of political science, energy and environment, global security, historical/archival studies, and the media.
The central undertaking of each Baker Scholar is research. Each scholar may choose to address a public policy issue of their choice, propose a research topic of personal interest, and/or utilize the Modern Political Archives through a year-long research project. Here you can view the listing of Baker Scholar Projects 2011-12. Scholars are paired with faculty or professional mentors who serve as resources and help direct the research.
In addition to research, scholars are strongly encouraged to participate in Baker Center events. Guest lectures and conferences offered at the center give scholars the chance to expand their networks of professional contacts and hear first-hand accounts from political insiders.
Applications are accepted throughout the year, but students applying should have a minimum GPA of 3.35 and at least one academic year at UT remaining in order to complete a research project. To learn more and apply, review the application and appraisal form here. Baker Scholar Application 2012 ——- faculty appraisal form 2012