BCL is no joke. Every day, students face complex dilemmas head on, from the housing crisis and urban blight, to climate change and community resilience. We don’t shy away from gnarly questions, and we partner with professionals and decision-makers to envision solutions. In BCL, the issues and the stakes are real.

But it doesn’t always feel like work. Somehow, despite the real-world rigor, there is also a pervasive sense of lightness, connection, and joy.

It’s a great feeling to do BCL. I’ve made so many new friends. Before I started the class I knew one or two people in the class, and now I know everyone. I’ve also gained a lot of information that helps me feel intelligent in grownup spaces.

• Gus

When i’m in BCL, it feels colorful — not just because I’m out of the mall, but also because we are always doing something meaningful and interesting. Being in BCL feels like a whole new learning environment.

• Quinten

The one word that comes to mind is “community.” BCL is a place where you meet a bunch of people you never would have met otherwise. The fun things we do are always memorable, like sailing and other Fun Blocks. We also meet with a lot of community partners, so the larger community of Burlington is a huge part of the course.

• Pramudita

BCL makes feel happy every day, because we get to fun stuff. And I really love going on trips and learning new things in Burlington. BCL just gives me a lot of joy and happiness because it’s fun to go out learn stuff and have fun with people.

• Lazizi

In BCL, it feels like you are a part of a community where everyone gets along and knows each other. We are able to do community-building in our Fun Blocks, but this feeling also shows up in every educational activity.

• Glenna