KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — A dozen Austin-East High School seniors were surprised on Friday by University of Tennessee Admissions staff, who surprised them with full-ride scholarships to UT while their families watched and celebrated.
Austin-East is one of 38 flagship high schools for UT. If students meet the requirements for admissions and meet the deadline, they are granted tuition and fees for eight semesters.
The twelve students had notes prepared. Their teachers told them they would sit on a panel to give advice to students on college applications. They were met with a huge surprise instead.
Information about the backgrounds and achievements are available below.
Meet the new Vols
Tylan Baker was admitted to pursue a degree in business analytics. Baker is part of Austin-East’s football, basketball and baseball teams, and participated in UT's Project Grad and is a mentee of the 100 Black Men of Greater Knoxville. Baker is a member of the National Honor Society and the National Achievers Society and is an all-regional football academic scholar.
Samuel Beaty was admitted to pursue a degree in journalism and electronic media. Beaty, who will be a first-generation college student, is co-captain of Austin-East’s football team.
Shaniya Cherry was admitted into child and family studies. Cherry has been part of Austin-East’s cheer team and student government association and is a member of the National Honor Society and the National Achievers Society.
Saevyon Cozart was admitted to pursue a degree in business analytics. Cozart participated in UT’s Project Grad.
Noah Djenini has been admitted to the business administration exploratory track. Djenini is a member of Austin-East’s basketball and track teams and participated in UT’s Project Excellence.
Jamia Hackler was admitted to the university exploratory track.
Jamya Hackler was admitted to pursue a degree in psychology.
JaMya Hollis was admitted to pursue a degree in psychology. Hollis is a member of Austin-East’s cheer team, dance company and student government association and is on the honor roll.
Angeline Irankunda was admitted to pursue a degree in psychology. Irankunda is a part of Austin-East’s dance team.
Samyah McGhee was admitted to pursue a degree in Studio Art.
Charleston Thomas has been admitted into accounting. Thomas is a member of Austin-East’s band and is involved with UT’s Project Grad Summer Institute, Pellissippi State Community College’s Virtual Summer Institute with Project Grad and KUB TeenWork.
Jaymee Walker was admitted to pursue a degree in communication studies. Walker will be a first-generation college student.