Being a Professional and a Scholar

At the University of Kentucky, your college experience is shaped by both formal and informal learning environments—and each plays an essential role in your academic and personal development.

Your formal learning environment includes lectures, readings, assignments, and structured activities within your courses. Here, you build foundational knowledge, sharpen your skills, and engage deeply with your academic discipline.

Your informal learning environment is just as important. Through conversations with peers, student organizations, community events, and cultural experiences, you’ll begin to understand and appreciate diverse perspectives, expand your worldview, and develop a strong sense of belonging.

The Department of Political Science values both parts of this educational journey. We believe that one of the most important goals of your time here is learning how to think and write like a scholar. This is not simply a result of earning a degree—it’s a mindset, a way of engaging with the world that is rooted in curiosity, evidence, and reflection.

Scholarly thinking goes beyond critical thinking. While critical thinking involves evaluating and questioning information, scholarly thinking invites you to generate new ideas, challenge assumptions, and contribute to academic conversations. It’s about seeing complexity, asking meaningful questions, and pursuing thoughtful answers.

Throughout your time at UK, you’ll have access to resources, mentors, and opportunities that support you in developing these skills. In the chapter ahead, we’ll highlight some of the tools and programs designed to help you grow into the scholar you are meant to become.

Note:  The original text has been adapted and edited for content and tone to better suit the intended audience.