Ross Baird : Truman Scholar
Name: Ross Baird
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Major: Government and Foreign Affairs
Graduation Year: 2007
How did you start your research at the University?
Research at the University is, in some ways, a social thing. Faculty and older students encourage younger students to get involved, and help them along the way. My first major experience was in my second year. My advisor, Larry Sabato, connected me to a yearlong fellowship at the Center for the Study of the Presidency in Washington. I had worked at the Center for Politics at the University on a civic education program, and my fellowship allowed me to pursue a yearlong research program on governmental public service programs, like the Peace Corps, that are meant to increase civic engagement. The help of Mr. Sabato and Ken Stroupe at the Center for Politics was invaluable. This experience led me to apply for a Harrison grant, with which I traveled last summer.
What are your current research interests?
I am interested in democratic political participation. I spent last summer on a David A. Harrison, III grant studying voter turnout in countries that are more politically active than the United States. I traveled through Italy, Croatia, Austria, and England for several months. I am trying to understand historical, political, and cultural factors that cause people to participate in politics. I will write my Honors thesis in the Politics department on this topic.
What other activities are you involved in at the University?
I currently serve as the President of the Class of 2007. I also give historical and admissions tours as a member of the University Guide Service, intern at the Center for Politics, and coach a 7th grade basketball team.
What are your future plans?
After graduating, I want to work on public education policy. I hope to go to graduate school and get a joint law/masters’ of public policy degree. Before continuing my education, I’d like to teach first—either through a program like Teach for America or the U.Va. College Guides Program.