 The number of students at the University increased from 1,000 to 2,000 while he held this position and the Old College buildings were completed.In 1810, before these new buildings were built, it was reported that 24 professors shared 11 rooms and two professors had to teach by candlelight even in the middle of the day.In 1800, Baird was chosen as Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland.