Frequently Asked Questions

No. The program is fast paced and not designed for delegates to have visitors. However on Friday, there will be a picnic for family and young ladies who are Inaugural Ball guests. No visitors will be allowed in the Boys’ State Headquarters area, to include the dorms.

Do I need a physical for Boys’ State?

Yes. A medical card is sent and must be filled out by your physician. You must have had a physical within six months prior to the start of Boys’ State.

What kinds of items should I bring?

Notarized Medical Certificate/Insurance Form; 1 blanket, 2 sheets, 1 pillow/pillow case, towels, PJs, Suntan lotion/Sunscreen, toothpaste/brush, clothes hangers, tennis shoes, rain gear, 2 dress shirts, 1 pr dark slacks, 1 suit or sports jacket, socks (several pair, including two dark pair), plenty of T-shirts, flip flop / shower shoes

Optional: Softball glove, tennis racquet, brief biographical sketch, camera, and musical instrument.

Will I have access to the Internet to check email, etc.?

No

Can I bring a cell phone?

Yes. However, you will need to be aware of some basic rules for cell phones at Tennessee American Legion Boys State that are strictly enforced. Cell phones are not to be brought to any program meeting/function/gathering. Cell phones may only be used in the student dormitories during student personal time (typically breakfast, lunch and dinner or early morning/late night). If you violate the rule and bring your phone to a session, it will be confiscated and held for you to claim in the Tennessee American Legion Boys State office at the end of the week.

What sports are offered at Boys’ State?

Tennis (you need your own racquet), softball (you need your own glove), flag football, volleyball, basketball, ping-pong (If you have your own special paddle, bring it), and badminton.

If I drive to Boys' State, is there a place to park my car?

Yes. Look at the Orange card that is sent to you. Parking is indicated on the card. You will be given a placard to put on the dash of your car.

When is the first meal?

Dinner is served at 6:00 p.m., Sunday for delegates and counselors. We suggest that you eat lunch BEFORE you arrive at TTU.

What will I need to do if I have to leave early?

If you attend, you are required to attend the entire program until graduation on Saturday. If you cannot attend the entire week, please do not apply.

Due to circumstances beyond my control, I may have to arrive after the registration line is closed. What should I do?

As soon as you know you will be arriving late, contact the Boys' State office at TTU, (931) 372-6252 and let us know. If this situation arises the day of registration, our number (931) 372-3730.

I want to play in the marching band. If I bring my own instrument, is there a place where it can be stored safely?

Yes, a locked room will be provided for secure storage of band instruments, however, Boys' State assumes no responsibility for lost, stolen or damaged instruments.

What time are we dismissed on Saturday?

Usually between 11:30 and 12:00 a.m. on Saturday. Your parents and friends are invited to the closing ceremonies. A parade (Pass-in-Review) will take place on the TTU football field, followed by the Inauguration Ceremony in the Hooper Eblen basketball arena (walking distance).

Can I leave campus during the week?

No. With over 600 delegates and counselors, we restrict off campus travel to emergencies.

How much money do I need to bring?

We suggest no more than $75. All your meals are covered. The extra money would be used for snacks and any souvenirs you might want to purchase (i.e., jackets, shirts, cups, etc. at TTU bookstore). We are not responsible for lost or stolen articles or money.

My friends and I are coming to Boys' State. What are the chances of us rooming together?

Hopefully little. One of the major benefits of the program is the chance to meet at least 50+ people on your residence hall floor whom you don't know. The room assignments are based on a sophisticated computer algorithm.

I am diabetic. Is that a problem?

No. We have a great medical staff at Boys' State and provisions will be made for you to keep any medications you need.

I assume alcohol, tobacco, and drug use are not allowed at Boys' State.

A good assumption. But in case you were wondering, if you are caught in possession of, or using alcohol or drugs, you will be sent home immediately. We will contact your sponsor and high school and explain to them why you are being sent home and why their fees will not be refunded.

There is no American Legion in my hometown. Whom should I contact for sponsorship?

While Boys' State is a program of the American Legion, many other civic organizations sponsor delegates like Eagles, Kiwanis, Lions, Rotary, high schools and others. If you have trouble finding a local sponsor to pay the FULL amount, you may use more than one sponsor to help defray the costs or your parents may help to sponsor part of, or all of your costs.