Student Voices is a blog where current students share firsthand stories about life at Occidental, from academics and athletics to student organizations, study abroad, research, and everything in between. Discover what it's really like to be an Oxy student through their experiences and perspectives.
Driven by a passion for serving others, Sophia transferred to Occidental to attend a college that emphasized community engagement. Her first year at Oxy included securing two internships and joining the ultimate frisbee team.
What began as a tentative return to the classroom for transfer student Ty Lyman ’27 became a journey of confidence and discovering Occidental as a place where he belonged.
From dawn surf sessions and geology research to hiking with friends and Sunday runs, Alex's weekend is always in motion.
For international student Sam, Oxy’s top-ranked academics, access to a major city, and a meaningful experience at an Occidental reception in China helped confirm that Oxy was the right choice for him.
Music major Lily Pesikoff spends her weekends balancing rehearsals, performances, KOXY Radio, Ultimate Frisbee, and time with roommates.
Occidental checks all the boxes for Maddie. A smaller school with a close-knit community. Access to a big city with warm weather. Politically engaged students. The decision to enroll at Oxy has led to endless possibilities.
From representing classmates to hiking with friends, no two weekends look exactly alike. Here's how ASOC President Trisha Bhima balances leadership, academics, research, and time to recharge.
The emerging artist was drawn to Occidental after a recommendation from a friend. The small class sizes, liberal arts education, and immediate access to opportunities in Los Angeles have contributed to an amazing college experience.
For geology major Maggie Hill ’28, the Richter Faculty-Led Research Abroad program offered the chance to take an ongoing research project on campus to the volcanic landscapes of New Zealand. There, she discovered how fieldwork, collaboration, and cultural exchange can transform scientific research.
An hour-long video call with a current student about campus life, academics and juggling soccer and rugby convinced Drey to travel from Hong Kong and enroll at Occidental.