Robyn Chaplin—Thomas D. Dunlap Scholarship
What is your hometown, major, and year in school?
I’m originally from West Palm Beach, FL, although I have lived in Knoxville since 1994. I am majoring in Music Education and will be a senior this fall.
What has the Beaman scholarship meant to your academic career, and what has it meant for your family?
I have been blessed with a plethora of scholarships and was fortunate to be in one of the first classes to receive the HOPE scholarship. Nearly every semester, I received excess funds, which I used to purchase books, pay for housing, and even learned to cook. I have had time to focus on my studies, and have been able to get involved with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, the National Society of Black Engineers, and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers. Most notably, through the generous support of donors, I was able to spend a semester in Costa Rica, studying Latin American culture and the Spanish language. I have not taken this support lightly. Despite my involvement and travels, I have strived to maintain a stellar GPA.
What is your most memorable UT experience so far?
My freshman year, the ladies on my floor in Morrill Hall decided to cook Thanksgiving dinner. Using borrowed cookware, we had a spread of baked chicken quarters, Wal-Mart brand lemonade, macaroni and cheese, canned green beans, cranberry sauce, and cake. It was such a great time. We ate and shared our different Thanksgiving experiences, and shared a few cooking secrets.
How did you decide on your major?
In high school, I read an article about a pilot program at the University of Georgia, where scientists had retrofitted a boiler to use chicken fat as a fuel source. With one project, less solid wastes would go to landfills and there was less of a need for fossil fuels. I had always enjoyed math and science, but I knew I did not want to study only for the sake of acquiring more knowledge. I wanted to major in a field where I would be able to apply my skills to real problems. Thus, engineering was a perfect fit.
What makes UT so special? Why did you choose UT?
I chose UT because of its welcoming atmosphere. When I visited as a senior in high school, some of the professors stayed at the campus until around 10 pm answering questions. At other institutions I had visited, I had only limited interaction with faculty. UT has grown dearer to my heart over the years. Though there are thousands of people in and around the campus, it still feels like home.
What is your favorite place on campus?
There are too many to name! I love walking on the Hill during autumn. The colorful leaves decorate the vast space, the clock chimes every half hour, and the campus is gearing up for another great football game. It’s classic UT.
What would you like for the donor(s) of your scholarship to know about you? What would you like to say to the donor(s)?
To the donors who have faithfully supported me, there are not enough ways I can say thank you. During my four years here, I have interfaced with world-class professors, interned at two leading companies within the field of chemical engineering, and even went abroad and studied in Costa Rica for a semester. This would not have been possible without you. With the stroke of a pen, you have given me a springboard into life. With the utmost sincerity, please accept my deepest gratitude.
Do you have any childhood memories of UT?
I am originally from Florida. In 1998, I cheered for UT during the national championship game. Since I was still living in Florida at the time, it was an unpopular stance. Of course, the Vols pulled through and I had major bragging rights. (My parents are not alums).
Describe the UT Spirit.
UT students, alumni, faculty, and supporters are dedicated to this legendary institution. It is a place where generations intermingle and carry on a history of excellence: in the classroom, in laboratories, and (of course) on the football field. I am proud to say that I am a student at The University of Tennessee.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to begin a career in the energy sector. I am exploring my options and hoping to use my technical knowledge in the renewable energy field.
