OFFICERS

PROGRAMS

LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM

The Legislative Program at TISL offers a comprehensive experience in state-level legislative processes, providing participants with an in-depth understanding of how a bill becomes a law. This program mirrors the actual legislative process, from drafting bills to debating them in committees and on the floor of the General Assembly.

CORE ELEMENTS

Bill Drafting

Students draft bills that address real-world issues, learning the intricacies of legislative language and the structure required for a bill to be considered.

Committee Work

Bills are reviewed by standing committees, where participants debate their merits, propose amendments, and strategize to gather support.

The General Assembly

Participants experience the dynamics of floor debates, working to pass their bills through both houses of the TISL General Assembly.

Unique Opportunities

Leadership Roles: Participants can take on roles such as Speaker of the House or Senate, committee chairs, and other key positions, enhancing their leadership and public speaking skills.
Networking: Interaction with peers from various institutions and with actual state legislators provides valuable networking opportunities and insights into the political process.

Benefits

Participants in the Legislative Program gain practical skills in legislative drafting, public speaking, negotiation, and strategic thinking, preparing them for future roles in public service and leadership.

LOBBYING PROGRAM

The Lobbying Program at TISL immerses students in the vital role of lobbying within the legislative process. Participants represent clients who seek to influence legislation by engaging directly with legislators, crafting persuasive arguments, and strategically supporting or opposing bills.

CORE ELEMENTS

Client Representation

Students form lobbying firms representing fictional clients with specific agendas. They develop mission statements and strategies to advance their clients' interests.

Lobbying Technique

Participants employ various techniques such as one-on-one meetings with legislators, testifying before committees, drafting amendments, and preparing talking points and information papers.

Ethical Conduct

The program emphasizes adherence to professional standards of conduct, ensuring that lobbying activities are carried out ethically and transparently.

Unique Opportunities

Floor Access: Limited floor passes allow lobbyists to engage directly with legislators during sessions, providing a unique perspective on the legislative process.

Real-Time Strategy: Lobbyists must adapt to the fast-paced environment of the General Assembly, responding to developments in real-time and adjusting their strategies accordingly.

Benefits

The Lobbying Program equips students with skills in advocacy, negotiation, strategic planning, and ethical conduct, preparing them for careers in public affairs, law, and government relations.

MEDIA PROGRAM

The TISL Media Program plays a crucial role in documenting and disseminating information about the events and proceedings of the General Assembly. Students in the media program produce a variety of content, including newsletters, videos, and social media updates, ensuring transparency and engagement.

CORE ELEMENTS

News Production

Participants create the TISL Times newsletter, providing timely updates and in-depth coverage of legislative sessions, committee meetings, and other events.

Broadcasting

The program includes a broadcasting component where journalists film interviews, report on sessions, and produce video content for TISL’s YouTube and social media channels.

Social Media Management

Students manage TISL’s social media presence, creating content that informs and engages delegates and members of the public.

Unique Opportunities

Editorial Experience: Students involved in their school's media team have the opportunity to gain valuable editorial and managerial experience by taking on various roles and responsibilities. These roles can provide students with hands-on experience in different aspects of the media production process, helping them develop essential skills and knowledge for careers in journalism, communications, and related fields.
Real-World Reporting: In addition to the editorial and managerial experience that students gain through their involvement in the media team, they also have the opportunity to develop their writing, reporting, and interviewing skills. By writing articles, conducting interviews, and gathering and analyzing information, students learn how to communicate effectively and produce high-quality journalistic content.

Benefits

The Media Program provides hands-on experience in journalism, media production, and public relations, equipping students with skills that are highly valuable in media, communications, and public affairs careers.

APPELLATE MOOT COURT COLLEGIATE CHALLENGE (AMC3)

The Appellate Moot Court Collegiate Challenge (AMC3) is a court simulation that offers students a fun, yet rigorous, experience in appellate advocacy. Participants in AMC3 assume the roles of attorneys representing petitioners and respondents in a hypothetical legal case. They are tasked with researching the relevant laws and precedents, drafting persuasive appellate briefs, and presenting oral arguments before a panel of experienced judges. The competition is structured to mimic the real-world appellate process, with participants facing off against each other in a series of preliminary rounds before advancing to the final round.

CORE ELEMENTS

Case Preparation

Teams prepare written briefs and oral arguments based on a closed hypothetical case released annually.

Oral Arguments

Participants present their arguments before panels of judges, including justices of the Tennessee Intercollegiate Supreme Court and practicing attorneys. The competition progresses through preliminary, semifinal, and championship rounds.

Judging and Feedback

Teams are evaluated by a Jury of View, consisting of legal professionals who provide scores and constructive feedback on their performance.

Unique Opportunities

Historic Venues: Oral arguments are held in prestigious venues such as the Old Supreme Court Chamber and the Tennessee Supreme Court Building, offering a unique and inspiring setting for participants.
Professional Interaction: The competition allows students to interact with legal professionals, receive mentorship, and gain insights into the legal profession.

Benefits

AMC3 develops participants' skills in legal research, writing, oral advocacy, and critical thinking. It provides a realistic and challenging environment that prepares students for future careers in law and enhances their understanding of the state’s judicial process.