Bulldog punter Baker Swedenburg understands the importance of efficiency. Whether in the game or in the classroom, he knows that time is too precious to waste. That's why the Columbus native focused on earning his bachelor's degree in just three years, so he could work on a master's degree during his remaining two years covered by an athletic scholarship at Mississippi State.
A 2011 business information systems graduate, he plans to complete his master's in information systems this coming spring. This summer, Swedenburg began an internship with BankTEL Systems in Columbus, which develops and supports auxiliary financial products. His work includes beta testing a new software product, demonstrating the software to customers, providing technical support, as well as writing a guide book for future interns.
The Heritage Academy graduate said his father owns his own business and has passed down a business mindset. Additionally, Swedenburg said he's always been technically inclined and built his own computer when he was in 10th grade.
"I'm that guy everyone calls if they have a computer problem," he said.
He visualizes his ideal job as being one which combines business and technology in some sort of liaison role that helps translate "tech speak" to executives, and vice versa, "to be able to relay back and forth to both sides of a business," he said.
During his last season as a Bulldog football player, Swedenburg is enjoying college to the fullest. Deemed one of the best punters in the Southeastern Conference, he's been a fan much longer than he's been a player.
"I haven't missed a State football game since I was 5. It's definitely a dream come true and a blessing," Swedenburg said.
He said his family is true maroon, adding that his parents have been to every home and away game since he's been on the team. His older sister Lindsey is a 2006 MSU alumna, who also majored in business.
Swedenburg recently became engaged to be married, and while his fiancé graduated from Auburn, her brother is his Bulldog teammate, long snapper Winston Chapman. In fact, MSU football is what brought the happy couple together.
Aside from athletics and academics, Swedenburg also enjoys many other things in life, including playing guitar and drums at Sunday church services. He said if he hadn't majored in business, he definitely would enjoy majoring in music.