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 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.
The Baker LLC will be located in Clement Hall for 2023-2024. All LLC locations are subject to change.
Community Requirements
The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy Building is conveniently located just a short walk away from the residence hall.
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.
Participants are required to enroll in the following courses:
Fall 2023 Semester:
· FYS 101 – The UT Experience (1 hour)
· BCPP 101 – Introduction to Public Policy (3 hours)
Spring 2024 Semester:
· BCPP 102 – Freshman Seminar (1 hour)
BLLC 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 (i.e. Vols Vote), and take on leadership opportunities within the Baker Center that will help build the skills and knowledge necessary to become future community leaders.
Contact
Lindsay Herrell
Student Programs Coordinator
Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy
1640 Cumberland Ave
Knoxville, TN 37996-3340
Telephone: 865-974-0931
E-mail: lherrell@utk.edu