Thomas Smith IV

Thomas is a Junior University Scholar from Houston, Texas with secondary majors in Economics and Philosophy, and concentrations in Professional Writing & Rhetoric with a Minor in Legal Reasoning and Analysis. Thomas lived in Martin Hall during his first year at Baylor and plans to attend law school after graduation. On campus, Thomas is involved in the William Carey Crane Scholars, Student Government, Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity, and Phi Sigma Tau Philosophy Honor Society. 

Thomas’ favorite reading list book was Kierkegaard’s Fear and Trembling. His current thesis plan is to research the effects of the Clinical Integration System in large healthcare systems on the fair competition of private physicians and maximization of healthcare outcomes. He has worked with faculty mentors Dr. Mark Kelly, Dr. Thomas Hibbs, and Dr. Charles North.

To the new students Thomas says: “Cherish the opportunity to be a University Scholar. There are not many programs around the country that allow the freedom to study such a wide variety of topics, especially at an institution that values the intersection between faith and reason. Read good books, make good friends, get involved on campus, and don't forget you are more than your grades!”

Extracurricular Experiences

Baylor Summer Fellowship for Religion and Social Life: Interned in the Senate as a legislative intern, performing policy research as well as clerical work. As a member of the summer fellowship I completed a two month intensive of seminars, spiritual formation, and mentorship centered around vocation and professional development in Washington, D.C.