Theo Baker spent four years investigating Stanford. Before he leaves, here’s what he found.

Theo Baker, a standout member of Stanford's class of 2026, has made headlines long before graduation. In his first semester, he uncovered a scandal that led to the resignation of Stanford's president, Marc Tessier-Lavigne, a feat that earned him the prestigious George Polk Award. With his graduation approaching, Baker is set to release his book, "How to Rule the World," which delves deep into Stanford's intricate ties with the venture capital world and the often unseen pressures within the university. Baker's journey began with aspirations in tech and entrepreneurship. He quickly immersed himself in campus life, participating in hackathons and advanced computer science courses. However, the recent loss of his grandfather, who encouraged him to pursue journalism, led him to join the student newspaper. What started as a way to connect turned into a groundbreaking investigation that would challenge the university's leadership. Initially, Baker faced warnings about the integrity of Tessier-Lavigne, but he pressed on. His investigation revealed troubling comments on PubPeer, a site where researchers critique published work, suggesting irregularities in studies co-authored by the president. Within months, his findings prompted an official inquiry, though it became clear that financial ties complicated the investigation. The book also explores what Baker calls the "Stanford inside Stanford," revealing a hidden culture where aspiring tech entrepreneurs are groomed and separated from mere poseurs. He describes a secretive class led by a Silicon Valley CEO, designed to cultivate the next generation of tech leaders. This underground network creates an environment where connections outweigh talent, leading to a culture that prizes access and networking over genuine innovation. Baker's observations are particularly astute given the backdrop of significant events during his time at Stanford, including the collapse of FTX and the rise of AI technologies like ChatGPT. He notes that many of his peers, facing a shrinking job market, have turned to entrepreneurship as a survival strategy, with the tech landscape shifting rapidly. Reflecting on his experiences, Baker emphasizes the importance of authenticity in one's pursuits, advising future students to be mindful of their motivations. As he prepares to graduate, Baker recognizes his newfound passion for journalism, hinting that whatever path he chooses next will undoubtedly intersect with storytelling and uncovering truths.