Chellgren Student Fellow Alumni Spotlight Q&A with Bailey Smith, Chellow Class of 2021
Celebrating 20 Years! Chellgren Student Fellow Alumni Spotlight: Q&A with Bailey Smith, Chellow Class of 2021
The Chellgren Center for Undergraduate Excellence is celebrating the 20th class of Chellgren Student Fellows by hosting an All-Class Reunion in October 2026 to celebrate! In honor of 20 years, we are highlighting alumni from the program by sharing where they are now and reflecting on their time as Chellgren Student Fellows.
Bailey Smith, originally from Dayton, Ohio, pursued a degree in Community and Leadership Development. Being a part of the Chellgren Center helped broaden her understanding of the opportunities available to her. Research has become a passion of hers since being in the class. She is now a Human Resources professional for the Veterans Administration and has also obtained her Master’s Degree in Learning Design and Technology from the University of Kentucky.
Why did you choose to attend the University of Kentucky, and how did you first get connected with the Chellgren Center?
I chose the University of Kentucky because it immediately felt like home. I first became involved with the Chellgren Center by attending an informational session after seeing it promoted on social media.
What was your involvement with the Chellgren Center during your time at UK?
I participated in the sophomore year fellowship program and became connected with my first (and only) undergraduate research mentor through that fellowship, as well as participated in workshops and field trips related to undergraduate enrichment and preparation for applications for nationally competitive awards.
How did that experience enrich your undergraduate years? In what ways did your Chellgren experience prepare you for where you are now?
My experience with the Chellgren Center was instrumental in shaping my current path, as it broadened my understanding of the opportunities available to me. I applied to the Chellgren Fellows program somewhat hesitantly, not expecting to be accepted. However, once I became involved, I discovered that my involvement extended beyond attending classes—it introduced me to research, which has since become one of my passions.
What have you been up to since graduation, and how did that path unfold?
Since graduating, I have worked as a Human Resources professional for the Veterans Administration and have also obtained my Master’s degree in Learning Design and Technology from the University of Kentucky.
What advice would you give to an undergraduate student considering getting involved with the Chellgren Center?
My advice to undergraduate students considering involvement with the Chellgren Center is to be proactive and open to discovering new aspects of yourself. It can be intimidating, and I acknowledge that imposter syndrome was a challenge I faced at times. However, the resources and support provided by the Chellgren Center can help nurture your potential. Take the initiative—it's an experience you'll likely find rewarding.
About the Chellgren Center Student Fellows Program
The Chellgren Center Student Fellows Program is designed for second-year students. This program provides experiences that go beyond the classroom. Through the Chellgren Center programming, you will gain many experiences that will help you get a head start on your career and inspire your goals. You get to experience faculty-mentored research, career advising, professional development, and so much more. You will collaborate with students, mentors, faculty, and staff.
The Chellgren Center began in 2005 with a generous gift from Mr. Paul W. Chellgren and his family, which was matched by the state to create a $4.5 million endowment. The center aims to foster undergraduate excellence through programs like the Chellgren Student Fellows program and by inspiring innovation in teaching and learning, aligning with Chellgren’s vision to enrich the lives of students and faculty. The first class of Chellgren Student Fellows began in the fall of 2007 when Dr. Philip Harling became the director of the student program and the first endowed chair of the center. We have seen many changes over the years, including the growth of the student program, financial assistance to undergraduates traveling to conferences or performing research, annual trips for the Chellgren Student Fellows, and the restructuring of one of our faculty programs. For more information on the Chellgren Center for Undergraduate Excellence, visit our website: https://chellgren.uky.edu/.