Academics
A popular saying at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is “I Will Give My All For Tennessee Today,” a rallying cry that rings true for UT students. After all, the student body, comprised of over 22,000 undergraduates, is imbued with tremendous “school spirit.” And, given the “palpable” “community feel and family atmosphere that permeates [the] campus,” it’s easy to understand why. Academically and professionally, Knoxville undergrads benefit from the fact that the university has cultivated great relationships with “international businesses and governmental institutions such as Oak Ridge National Lab and the TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority).” Of course, prospective students should not expect their undergraduate years to be a proverbial cake walk. Students caution that classes can be “a challenge” and that UT professors certainly “make sure you earn your degree.” Despite that fact (or perhaps because of it), Knoxville undergrads speak quite highly of their professors. They describe the vast majority of instructors as “extremely knowledgeable” individuals who routinely conduct “interesting research.” Students also appreciate how their professors are “open to discussion on topics indirectly related to the lecture material.” Best of all, they seem to “actually care about their students.” Indeed, UT professors “are willing to get to know you outside of the classroom, and they want to help you succeed.”
Student Body
Fortunately, University of Tennessee, Knoxville is a school that’s “big enough [to guarantee you’ll find] all kinds of people.” And though the “student body is made up of many Tennesseans,” it still manages to “attract a large population [of] out-ofstate and international students.” Nevertheless, some undergrads do note that the “campus tends to be conservative leaning, with small liberal and leftist groups existing.” Political beliefs aside, many report that their peers are generally “kind, compassionate, and caring people that demonstrate Southern class and values.” As one grateful undergrad elaborates, “If you ever need anything, you could go up to a random person and they would gladly take the time to talk to you. I have never experienced any sort of exclusiveness here, as everyone is truly a part of the Big Orange Family.” A fellow classmate agrees, “We can all come together to celebrate the traditions of our school and community. We embrace the differences and work together to continuously improve the university for future students.” However, a handful of undergrads did note that the campus can sometimes feel “uncomfortable...for anyone who is not cis-gender, white, and/or heterosexual.”
Campus Life
Without a doubt, there’s fun to be had at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. For starters, “when the weather is nice, there are always people doing things outside. People will set up hammocks, slacklines, and play Frisbee.” You’ll also frequently see “people playing sports in campus facilities and people running on the sidewalks.” And we’re told that “there are a lot of shows and productions...that are fun to watch.” As one might expect, there are numerous clubs to join as well. Undergrads can participate in everything from “Habitat for Humanity” and “marching band” to the “Society of Physics Students (SPS)” and even “Humans versus Zombies.” Moreover, “Greek life is big and tends to keep people busy.” And, of course, “during the fall, every Saturday is dedicated to Tennessee football.” Lastly, there’s plenty to do offcampus as well. For example, “there is a popular farmer’s market...that is within walking distance from campus so many people go to that.” Additionally, “there are several music venues so [students often attend] concerts.” And since UT is “located close to the Smoky Mountains” you’ll discover that “a lot of people will go hiking on pretty days.” Truly, there is something for everyone.
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