The Volunteer Spirit
Volunteers—that’s who we are. Our unique character is built on our region’s history of showing up to serve. In our community, across the state, and around the world, our Volunteer family is changing lives for the better through our service work, educational excellence, and expertise.
Giving Voice
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Singer-songwriter Anne Buckle (’11) first became interested in refugees at an arts in education conference in 2016. When a presenter said one in every 122 people is a refugee, it moved her to action. Buckle signed up with World Relief Nashville to tutor refugees in English. She quickly learned how the teens struggled to fit into their new country. To give the refugees an outlet for musical expression, she founded a non-profit called 3 Chords. The name comes from songwriter Harlan Howard’s often-quoted description of country songs as “three chords and the truth.” Read More. |
My Degree Matters
My Degree Matters was the theme of our Welcome Week event in August 2019. We hosted our first-year students and showcased all we have to offer in the College of Arts and Sciences. Our students wrote answers on sticky notes as to why their degree matters– from solving the world’s biggest problems and helping others to acquiring transferable skills and being creative. Whether they are exploring their options or already on their chosen career path, members of the incoming first year class are inspired to change the world.
College Ambassadors
The College of Arts & Sciences Ambassadors are students majoring in our college who help incoming students discover the breadth and depth of all we have to offer. During campus tours, they meet with students to answer questions about what it is like to be a student in the college and a member of the UT Volunteer family. Learn more about the student ambassadors online.
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“I decided to become an ambassador because I wanted the chance to share the amazing opportunities UT has given me with potential students. When we give a tour or talk to a prospective student, they are gaining a perspective that is unique and personal. In my opinion, that is something prospective students and families remember when they think about their visit to UT.” -Ashtyn Hill, Junior |
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“During my first few days as an undergraduate student at UT, I was overwhelmed. I experienced a lot of skepticism and doubt, and, admittedly, a lot of negative thoughts. I started my classes thinking that I’d never feel at home. I was shocked when, a few weeks later, I found that I was head-over-heels in love with the university. I decided to become an ambassador because I wanted to help other students fall in love with the school in the same way that I did. The College of Arts & Sciences has nurtured my creativity, boosted my confidence, and helped me become a leader. I want other students to have the chance to develop in the same ways that I have developed. I want to make sure that everyone finds their home at UT.” -Bailee Wilson, Senior |
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“Being an ambassador matters because there are a lot of misconceptions about college that make students feel like it is not attainable for them, or that they can’t study what they are passionate about and still be successful in a later career. I think every student should have the opportunity to see first-hand that they can do it; that is, college can be right for them and there is a place for everyone here at UT.” -Lauren Cormany, Senior |
