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.
Allegra Canelos
Hometown: Tucson, Ariz.
Major: Music Composition
Minor: Philosophy
What were some of the things you were looking for in a college and how did you first learn about Occidental College?
I was searching for a school that offered opportunities to be mentored by industry professionals and experienced professors while also being located near a large urban city. Since I am interested in the music and entertainment industry, Los Angeles was one of the top places I considered. Additionally, it was important to me that my peers were friendly and creative. I first learned about Occidental from a friend at school who thought I might enjoy the atmosphere, and I’m glad she recognized from the beginning that it would be a good fit for me.
If you want to go to a school with driven, yet collaborative and creative students definitely apply to Oxy. We have great professors who are willing to support you and a great campus that offers an amazing college experience.
What motivated you to apply to Occidental? What separated Occidental from the other colleges you were considering?
I decided to apply to Occidental because the small class sizes and residential campus life seemed like a unique college experience. Unlike other colleges, I knew I would be living in my own community within the major metropolitan area of Los Angeles. In addition, I was drawn to the liberal arts education which would allow me to explore classes across multiple topics and interests.
Describe the moment when you knew Occidental was your final choice. What are the reasons you decided to enroll?
I knew that Occidental was my final choice after visiting and getting an actual real life experience of the atmosphere and student body on campus. Students, faculty, and staff were all friendly, and I could tell everyone genuinely loved the institution. Sitting in on a class, I was impressed by the discussions going on and could tell how driven all the students were. I knew Occidental was a welcoming environment that I wanted to be a part of.
What misconception did you have about Occidental when you applied or what is a common misconception among new students?
A lot of people believe that Occidental is going to be too boring for them, or that it is super hard to make new friends because the school is only about 2000 people. In my opinion, we have the perfect balance of on campus fun and familiar faces around (since we are so small), mixed with the vastness and fun opportunities of Los Angeles. I am constantly meeting new people, inside of Occidental and outside in our immediate neighborhood and beyond. I have never been bored at Occidental!
What would you tell a student who is considering Occidental right now?
If you want to go to a school with driven, yet collaborative and creative students definitely apply to Oxy. We have great professors who are willing to support you and a great campus that offers an amazing college experience. Los Angeles is one of the most active cities in the world, and Occidental provides you with immediate access to all the wonderful opportunities of LA.