Baker Organizational Observation for Knowledge (BOOK) Program

Learning Beyond the Internship

At Baker University, experiential learning extends beyond the classroom. The Baker Organizational Observation for Knowledge (BOOK) Program challenges students to take their internship experiences further by analyzing the organizations they serve and sharing those insights with the broader campus community.

Through the program, students research and evaluate the history, mission, organizational structure, products and services, financial performance, leadership practices, and overall operations of their internship organizations. Participants then present their findings in a competitive format before a panel of judges, competing for cash prizes while demonstrating professional communication, critical thinking, and business acumen.

Why the BOOK Program Matters

The BOOK Program transforms a traditional internship into a deeper learning experience by encouraging students to connect classroom concepts with real-world organizational analysis.

"As we continue developing the BOOK program, it is becoming an integral part of Baker's experiential learning," says Dr. Kevin McCarthy, professor emeritus of business and economics. "An internship alone no longer distinguishes a college graduate from other job candidates. However, the BOOK program does have that potential."

Students gain experience in:

• Professional presentation and public speaking
• Business research and analysis
• Organizational assessment
• Strategic thinking
• Executive-level communication
• Career readiness and interview preparation

Event Details

Event: Baker Organizational Observation for Knowledge (BOOK) Competition
Date: August 29
Hosted By: Baker University School of Business and Career Services
Format: Student presentations, judging panel, scholarship awards, and recognition of outstanding internship experiences.

What Attendees Can Expect

Participants will present lessons learned from their internship experiences while evaluating the organizations where they worked. Presentations explore topics such as:

• Organizational history and mission
• Leadership and management practices
• Products and services
• Financial and operational performance
• Workplace culture
• Industry trends and challenges
• Professional growth and career insights

Judges will evaluate presentations based on research quality, analysis, presentation effectiveness, and application of business concepts.

Experiential Learning in Action

The BOOK Program exemplifies Baker University's commitment to preparing students for life after graduation. By combining internships with structured research, reflection, and professional presentation opportunities, students develop skills that help them stand out in an increasingly competitive workforce.

Whether pursuing careers in business, marketing, finance, management, entrepreneurship, or related fields, participants leave the program with tangible experience demonstrating both academic knowledge and practical application.