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Rocky Top Commuters

Rocky Top Commuters (RTC) helps first-year and transfer students who live off-campus transition to UT by providing opportunities to engage with the campus community through dynamic programming and exclusive events designed to enhance the UT experience. Rocky Top Commuters runs from August 21st through October 1st. As a student scholar participating in the program, you will: 


  • Attend an exclusive, in-person welcome event for Rocky Top Commuters. Join us for swag, refreshments, and fun as you learn about the Rocky Top Commuters program and how it will connect you with the UT community.  Check back soon for details including the date and location. 
  • Engage in a zero-credit-hour seminar built to enhance your well-being in key areas including: 
    • Academic engagement 
    • Financial wellness 
    • Student engagement 
    • Community building 
    • Mental & physical health 
  • Attend at least six Big Orange Welcome events to build on seminar topics within the first six weeks of the fall semester. 
  • Engage with faculty, staff, and peers through Big Orange Welcome with in-person programming designed to promote your success. Each week during Rocky Top Commuters, you’ll participate in in-person events designed to build upon the theme of each module. The full list of Big Orange Welcome events can be found here. 
  • Receive a $50 stipend for registering and an additional $200 stipend for completing the program.  

Ready to become part of the Rocky Top Commuters experience? Eligible students will receive an invitation in their Vol Mail. Sign-up soon as registration closes on September 3rd!  

Have questions? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or email Kevin Reeves at kreeve15@utk.edu