Apply to Join the 2026-27 TLC Program
The 2026-27 TLC program application is now open! All incoming LMU students are welcome to apply by 11:59 p.m. PDT on June 5, 2026. If you have questions about the application process, please contact Kwyn Townsend-Riley.
Interview Process
All applications will be reviewed by the 2026-27 TLC program committee using a standardized rubric. Space in the incoming cohort is limited, and applications must clearly demonstrate how the applicant can both benefit from and contribute to the TLC community as a member of the 2026-27 TLC cohort.
Based on this review of applications, the committee will select students to interview via Zoom tentatively scheduled to begin on June 15, 2026.
Invitations to Join the TLC Community
After interviews have been completed, all applicants will be notified about the status of their application to the TLC program tentatively scheduled to be sent out by June 30, 2026.*
Students who are invited to join the TLC community must participate in the 2026 TLC Summer Program (generally scheduled during the last two weeks of August) to continue in the TLC program in the 2026-27 academic year.
*These dates are tentative and subject to change based on the size of the applicant pool.
FAQs about TLC
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- Admission to TLC is reserved for incoming first-year students who identify with the Black or African American experience.
- Please note: This program is very competitive and spots are limited. The average cohort size is 30 students.
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- Develop leadership skills to make a difference within the LMU community and beyond
- Learn what it takes to be successful at LMU
- Get a head start on university life
- Get plugged into campus resources and exclusive opportunities through your participation in the program
- Attend multiple outings to discover the cultural aspects of the greater Los Angeles area
- Meet faculty, staff and key administrators before school starts
- Move in early into your residence hall
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The TLC program begins with our summer program (generally two weeks in August) which takes place in the summer prior to your first academic year at LMU.
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The TLC program is completely FREE for all participants.
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Summer Program
- Two week summer program which generally occurs in August.
- Must live in on-campus housing throughout the duration of the summer program Must attend the entire duration of the summer program.
- Must attend ALL daytime, evening and weekend programs.
Fall and Spring Program
- Students must enroll in the TLC one-unit leadership course during fall and spring semesters of their freshman year (generally held Mondays 4-5:20 p.m. PT).
- Monthly check-ins with the TLC Program Coordinator.
- Participation in several initiatives and leadership opportunities within the community, both on and off-campus.
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All participants in the TLC summer program reside in LMU on-campus housing for the duration of the program.
TLC summer program participants who will live on campus during the academic year will be in accordance with their housing assignment for the academic year so that they do not have to transition to a different residence during Welcome Weekend.
TLC summer program participants who have not been assigned housing for the academic year (i.e., commuting students) will live on campus for the duration of the TLC summer program and will be required to move out at the close of the program.
Summer housing for all TLC participants is free of charge.
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Days begin as early as 8 a.m. PT and nights end as late as 8 p.m. PT, with breaks in between to reset. Our days are comprised of engaging classes, informative sessions, and fun community building activities.
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Participants are required to be present and participate in the entire summer program. Only emergencies will be accommodated.