Academics
Occidental College, in northeast Los Angeles, offers undergrads an "intellectually stimulating" environment, one that "really encourages [them] to take a proactive role in their education" and "experiment with a wide range of courses." As this student shares, "I love the interdisciplinary aspect of academics. I can really tailor my coursework to what I am interested in." Undergrads also appreciate that Oxy emphasizes a global perspective. Beyond traditional study abroad programs, students can enroll in courses that include an international field trip. For example, they might travel with faculty to study marine biology in Costa Rica or music history in Austria. Students can also apply to spend a semester at the U.N., completing internships with country missions or various NGOs. Back at home, undergrads have classes with professors who "encourage critical analysis, ask interesting questions, and allow students to create informed opinions about the subject." They also do a great job of "finding ways to connect [their] lectures to the real world." Perhaps more importantly, Oxy professors are "very willing to have students help them with their research." And while they work hard to ensure their "courses are challenging," it's clear the faculty "want to see you succeed." Undergrads report that instructors often "go the extra mile to make themselves available" and that "there are plenty of opportunities to get extra help on the tough material." Best of all, it's evident that professors "are invested in cultivating real relationships with students."
Student Body
One of the many reasons students love Occidental is because it's really easy to find "a good niche of close friends at Oxy." As one undergrad notes, "If you're involved on campus, expect your friend group to continually grow." This welcoming and supportive nature even extends into the classroom, where "there is a communal desire to help each other succeed." Undergrads assert that their peers are "socially and politically conscious" and care deeply about issues affecting the world at large. Although some do acknowledge that it can feel as though the school maintains an "overwhelmingly left-wing atmosphere," they also insist that "every student at Oxy treats all persons equally, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or religious views," and most are readily "accepting of different opinions." Indeed, there's an emphasis on inclusion and visibility that is evident from groups like the First Gen Coalition and Chinese Culture Club, as well as themed housing like Women in Wellness and The Latinx Culture Collective. These all make it easy for students to foster a strong sense of community at Occidental.
Campus Life
As you stroll around the campus, it's not hard to see that students are "excited to be at Occidental" and "people are really passionate about their extracurricular activities and internships." Undergrads can join a wide range of groups, including a sketch comedy troupe, a fiber arts club, and a food justice organization. Sports are also a popular social outlet. In fact, 45% of the student body is involved in athletics, be it a varsity, club, or intramural team. Additionally, school-sponsored events are typically well attended. Students often flock to hear "guest speakers [or participate in] dialogues and workshops." They also love going to the "dances, trivia nights, movie screenings, fashion shows, concerts, and food tastings" that Oxy organizes. And of course, off-campus "house parties are a huge source of fun on the weekends." And speaking of off-campus, undergrads appreciate that they have "Los Angeles as [their] backyard," especially since the school is "not isolated from the surrounding community like many other college campuses." It's common to see students hitting up "music shows, bars, and clubs" or heading out to "go to the beach, go shopping in L.A., go out to eat in Eagle Rock, and go hiking."
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