First Generation Living Learning Community Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Living Learning Community? 

A Living Learning Community (LLC) is a residential community that introduces and integrates academic and social learning through faculty/staff involvement and holistic education. LLCs at UT are designed to create a greater sense of community through increased opportunities for faculty and peer interaction around specific topics. Students living in LLCs live together in the same area of a residence hall and share experiences that reinforce the theme of their LLCs. LLCs provide students and faculty opportunities for connection outside the classroom and support networking across common interests.

What role does University Housing and Dining have in the First-Generation LLC? 

University Housing and Dining (UHD) partners with New Student Services to provide the living space and dining plan for students within the Living Learning Community. New Student Services facilitates all programmatic aspects of the LLC (mentorship program, regular meetings and events, etc.), while UHD assists with occupancy, resident hall management and supervision of the Resident Assistant.

Is there a discounted rate for living in the Living Learning Community If not, how much does it cost? 

There is not a discounted price for the Living Learning Community (LLC). Students are responsible for the “Renovated Jester Shared Space with Community Bath Rate” found here.

Are there scholarships available for housing?

The University of Texas at Austin launched a new, pilot scholarship program for students who receive tuition support through Texas Advance Commitment and live in on-campus housing at Dobie Twenty21 or one of our 15 residence halls, including Jester West. The scholarship was created to help lessen on-campus housing costs for students and increase their access to the many benefits of living on the Forty Acres that contribute to retention and success. Learn more: https://texasadvance.utexas.edu/#housing

How is the room and hall set up for the First-Generation Living Learning Community?

The Living Learning Community is located in Jester West, which is a renovated community bath setup.

Am I able to be part of the Living Learning Community without living on campus? 

Unfortunately, students are only able to be involved with this specific group if you are able to live in Jester West, which is where the Living Learning Community will be located. However, there are a lot of opportunities to get involved with your fellow first-generation students at UT Austin, and this will not be your only opportunity to connect with your peers. Check out all of our resources for first-gen students at UT: firstgeneration.utexas.eduprovost.utexas.edu/first-generation-working-group.

If you are considering living off-campus, you can learn more about off-campus living in Austin through the Off-Campus Website. It has information about housing, transportation, and more. On-campus housing is facilitated through University Housing and Dining.

I want to be part of the Living Learning Community, but I already have a roommate in mind. Can I still be in the Living Learning Community and live with my friend? 

Students are required to live on the same floor and with a roommate who is also a part of the Living Learning Community. This will establish a sense of community, bonding, and we will also have several meetings with your Resident Assistant (RA) on this floor.

If your intended roommate is a first-generation college student and is wanting to apply for the First-Gen Living Learning Community, there is a space on the application to request a roommate who is also applying.