“BK101 and BK201 are both offered to students to give them a better perspective of college life and Baker as a whole,” says Baker Experience Director, Addison Woods.

BK101/201 is a central, required course that all first-year Baker University students take. The class meets once a week and teaches Baker history, offers guidance on succeeding as a college student, and provides a space for students to ask questions and address uncertainties. The program includes 18 peer mentors, current Baker students who support and connect with first-year students.

The course is designed to help students discover Baker’s lesser-known resources. Topics include career services, the speech and writing centers, the Baker Core curriculum, and more. Checkpoints throughout the semester help students stay on track for college success and career preparation. From advising meetings to résumé-building workshops and major and career fairs, the course emphasizes investing in students’ futures.

Dr. Jon Long, dean of students and Baker Experience supervisor, said the focus on helping first-year students succeed has existed in different forms for more than 20 years. In its current structure, the course benefits more than just first-year students. Peer mentors serve as secondary advisors in BK101/201 classes and earn upper-level credits and a stipend for their role in the Baker community.

While BK101/201 may not be the most popular class on campus, the Baker Experience team, Woods, co-director Makayla Chapman, and Dr. Long welcomes feedback and suggestions to continue improving the program and the overall student experience.