News from The Mahurin Honors College

Jakob Barker, a first-year student from Wilmore, Kentucky, is embracing every opportunity WKU has to offer. With a unique blend of interests ranging from international affairs to engineering, Jakob’s journey is defined by a willingness to explore new academic and personal frontiers.

Jakob’s high school years laid the foundation for his current academic ambitions. As a participant in the Governor’s Scholars Program (GSP), Jakob formed connections with a supportive network of peers—many of whom are now at WKU. “GSP helped me build a community that I’ve carried with me into college,” Jakob reflects. This program encouraged him to explore his broad interests and develop the confidence to pursue various opportunities.

Originally double majoring in International Affairs and Economics, Jakob’s passion for understanding different cultures and government systems took shape early. “In high school, we participated in the Kentucky United Nations Assembly, where we created legislation and represented countries,” he recalls. “That experience shaped my love for government and legislation.” His role as a leader in that program left a lasting impression on his academic interests.

However, Jakob’s curiosity didn’t stop there. Over time, he developed a strong affinity for science and mathematics, prompting him to consider a shift to engineering. He’s currently leaning toward mechanical engineering with hopes of retaining a minor in international affairs or political science. “I feel like engineering is a more interesting field to get involved in,” Jakob explains, “but I still want to stay connected to my passion for politics and global issues.”

Choosing WKU was a family affair. Jakob’s sister, Ela Barker, a junior at WKU and a member of Honors herself, was a factor in his decision. Additionally, building in some separation from his hometown and his intended university, as another. Jakob’s decision came down to WKU or the University of Virginia, but WKU’s vibrant opportunities won him over. “I knew WKU would give me more chances to grow,” Jakob shares.

One of the standout experiences in his first year has been his involvement in WKU’s Catalyst Cohort, launched and supported by the Office of Scholar Development, WKU Sisterhood, and the Mahurin Honors College. During his participation in Honors MASTER Plan, a first-year student orientation hosted in early August, Jakob learned of the program and applied. “Catalyst helped me broaden my perspective on study abroad opportunities,” Jakob says. “I’ve made so many connections with students who push me to think bigger.”

His involvement in SCUSA (Student Conference on U.S. Affairs) at the West Point Military Academy in early October 2024 was one such opportunity. Participating in a roundtable on Russia’s rise as a global power, Jakob and his WKU cohort were among the youngest attendees—working alongside graduate students and senior government officials. “It was intimidating at first, but I found common ground with people from all walks of life,” he reflects. “We were all there to learn.” The conference theme, Multipolarity, challenged participants to devise policy responses to pressing global issues, such as the war in Ukraine. Jakob’s group crafted three policy objectives, one of which they presented to the larger conference body.

Jakob’s commitment to civic engagement extends to his campus involvement. As President of WKU Democrats, he is focused on increasing student political participation. “We’ve organized events like the Presidential and Vice-Presidential debates in collaboration with Honors,” he says. Additionally, Jakob was elected as an at-large freshman senator in WKU’s Student Government Association (SGA), an organization dedicated to spearheading initiatives like loaning TI-84 calculators and blue books for exams. Another major goal of SGA has been advocating for a polling place on campus for the upcoming federal election on November 5, 2024. Though the effort was denied by local officials, Jakob and the SGA team are working on establishing a bus route to city-based polling locations.

Looking ahead, one of Jakob’s primary goals is to study abroad with WKU Global. He credits his experience with Catalyst for sparking this interest and motivating him to seek international opportunities like the Gilman Scholarship and Fulbright Program. “Do everything you can—that’s what I was told when I started,” he advises fellow students. “Applying can be nerve-wracking, but the more you put yourself out there, the more likely you are to succeed. And the more you apply, the less anxious you feel about the process.”

As Jakob continues to explore new academic paths—whether in engineering or international affairs—he remains committed to making the most of his Hilltopper experience. Whether through leadership roles, political engagement, or global learning opportunities, Jakob Barker is setting the stage for a bright and impactful future.