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The University of Tennessee

Student Orientation and Leadership Development

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Devyn Downey

Hometown: Grenada, MS
Classification/Major: Junior, French, World Business

What is the most important piece of advice you would give new students?

  • Don’t skip classes! As much as people, even some teachers, may say you can miss lectures, it only hurts you in the long run because you will end up having to cram for tests. Go to class and you will do better in school! And don’t just go to class, actually listen intently. After each class, read through your notes and lecture outlines. If you are constantly running through this information, you are more likely to retain the information, which means easier studying when finals roll around.

What is your favorite place on campus?

  • Definitely the amphitheater, especially at night when it’s all lit up. My friends and I will go sit there at night and talk for hours. You can see all of campus and since its so open, the sky is really pretty. It’s a very peaceful place to go if you’re stressed.

What surprised you most about coming to college?

  • I was most surprised about how easy it is to make new friends and to meet people. I met someone new practically everyday – anywhere from in class or at Smokey’s to someone sitting at my table in Hodges Library. Everyone is in the same boat you’re in upon coming to college and is always open to a new friend.

Devyn Downey

Contact Devyn Downey

Student Orientation
412 Student Services Bldg.
Knoxville, TN 37996-0247
Phone: (865) 974-2435
Fax: (865) 974-1373
Email: ddowney@utk.edu