Living learning communities (LLC) are residential environments that build connections between a student's experiences both within and beyond the classroom. All of the LLCs available to Berklee students are focused on a particular topic or course and are overseen by dedicated staff and faculty. Students who participate in LLCs often have higher rates of academic success, graduate at higher rates, and have an easier time building connections with their peers.
LENS Living Learning Community
Students in this LLC take the same first-semester Engaging Seminar (LENS) class as others on their floor and acclimate to life at Berklee through the support of a resident assistant (RA) and student academic mentor (SAM). LENS classes are an opportunity for students to investigate ideas through the lens of a focused topic that is selected by a faculty member. Complementing their coursework, students engage in a variety of activities both in and out of the classroom that are designed to connect them to the Berklee community and help them thrive academically, artistically, and socially. Residents interact with their classmates and professors over meals in the dining hall or though special programming in the residence halls.
Core Music Living Learning Community
Students in the Core Music LLC reside within the 160 Massachusetts Avenue residence hall and are enrolled in an Ear Training I course for the fall semester, which they take with their floormates. In addition to an RA on each floor to assist the students in their transition to college and to act as a support and resource, there are two Core Music tutors (CMTs) assigned to work with the LLC. These CMTs provide approximately 30 hours of one-on-one and group tutoring within the community each week to help students reach their potential.
Social Justice Living Learning Community
Housed in the 270 Commonwealth Avenue residence hall, this LLC is designed for students interested in learning more about topics such as privilege and power, identity, systems of oppression, and social change. Participating residents have the opportunity to learn through mediums such as film screenings, performances, service projects, guest speakers, article discussions, and more. They also engage in dialogue with Berklee staff and faculty and Boston community members to help them gain the tools necessary to make change within the Berklee community and beyond. A committed faculty member and a staff member from the Center for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion work directly with this community.
Substance-Free Living Learning Community
Housed in the 270 Commonwealth Avenue residence hall, this LLC was created to support students who are committed to living in a substance-free environment. Students who choose to join this community sign a pledge agreeing to abstain from alcohol, the use of illicit drugs, abuse of prescription medication, and introducing harmful substances into their living environment. Students violating this agreement are relocated to a different community. A staff member from Health and Wellness and a committed faculty member work directly with this community.
