For Students
Baker Living Learning Community
The Baker Living Learning Community (BLLC) provides first-year students interested in politics and public service with an instant community that will enrich their undergraduate experience. The BLLC is designed for first-year students who want to improve their understanding of our system of governance and public policy within an established mentored student support network. Students accepted into the BLLC live together in a university residence hall and take courses together their first-year, which also fulfills Volunteer Core requirements for many majors.
Named after former US Senator from Tennessee and US Ambassador to Japan, Howard H. Baker, Jr., the Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy serves as a place for engaged learning. This close association with the Baker Center gives students access to the research, programs, conferences, and events in various policy areas such as leadership and governance, energy and environment, and global security.
The BLLC has monthly socials and bi-weekly professional development events focused on teaching students about careers and opportunities in public policy. Join us and share your passion for public service as you learn more about government and policy and how you can make an impact.
Live with Us
Clement Hall serves as home base for all Baker LLC students. The traditional suite-style rooms are double-occupancy rooms connected with a semi-private bathroom. In addition to student rooms, Clement Hall has a variety of shared spaces for residents. Its newly remodeled basement is complete with TV’s, lounge areas, and game tables, making it one of the most popular spaces in the building.
The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy Building is conveniently located just a short walk away from the residence hall.
Learn with Us
Baker LLC students develop strong bonds while taking common courses, forming study groups, participating in tutoring sessions, building teamwork skills, and building connections within the Baker Center community. Students are encouraged to participate regardless of their major.
Fall Semester:
- FYS 101 – The UT Experience (1 hour)
- BCPP 101 – Introduction to Public Policy (3 hours)
Spring Semester:
- BCPP 102 – Freshman Seminar (1 hour)
Lead with Us
Baker LLC students will be provided with opportunities to attend professional development workshops, network with individuals that have careers in public policy and public service, participate in civic engagement initiatives, and take on leadership opportunities within the Baker Center that will help build the skills and knowledge necessary to become future community leaders.
Zoom Information Sessions
Students interested in participating in the BLLC are highly encouraged to attend one of the two information sessions. This will be your chance to hear more details about the program and meet the two coordinators, Lindsay Herrell and Erica Ury.
- Tuesday, February 7, 2023 from 5-6pm
- Thursday, February 23, 2023 from 5-6pm
Zoom Link: tiny.utk.edu/BakerLLCInfoSession
Apply
Baker LLC is open to all first-year students with an interest in politics and public service. Applicants will be accepted on a rolling basis until spots are filled, so students are encouraged to apply early.
Students interested in participating in Baker LLC should first complete their online housing application. Once complete, students will be able to access the online Living and Learning Community application (available in early February). For more information, contact the Department of University Housing.
To learn more about the Baker LLC, contact the Student Programs team at bakerstudents@utk.edu or (865) 974-0931.
