Student Life

A vibrant, close-knit liberal arts college experience in the heart of Los Angeles. That’s something you won’t find anywhere else.

Oxy students are socially active and globally aware, and when opportunities come along they’re all in. Check out a new Oxy Arts exhibit. Write for The Occidental newspaper. Shine onstage in Dance Production. Work in the FEAST organic garden. And of course, L.A. provides limitless opportunity to play, get involved and expand your classroom experience.

Our student body is diverse, with nearly half of our students identifying as domestic students of color or international students. Our community strives for inclusivity when it comes to sexuality, gender identity and faith, and Oxy students take full advantage of L.A.’s rich cultural diversity.

 

Never a dull moment

There’s no shortage of opportunities to explore your passions, try new things and meet new people. Join student government (or another of our 100+ student clubs), play an intramural sport, or take part in community service.

- Clubs & Organizations
- Student Leadership & Involvement
- Athletics & Wellness

 

an Occidental student studying at her desk in her residence hall room

Home away from home

Oxy students are a close-knit group. You’re required to live on campus for three years—though most stay for four. Our 13 residence halls and themed and multicultural housing options help make the experience uniquely yours.

- Living at Oxy
- Our residence halls
 

 

two Occidental students hold up their plates in the Marketplace dining hall

What’s cooking?

Between Marketplace, the Tiger Cooler and the student-run Green Bean coffee shop, it’s easy to find what you’re looking for.

- Eating at Oxy
- Eating in the neighborhood

 

 

 

los angeles city skyline at sunset with mountains in background

Location, location, location

The surrounding Eagle Rock and Highland Park neighborhoods are full of food trucks, record stores, and art galleries. You can also bike through the arts district downtown, eat your way through Koreatown or catch the cool ocean breezes in Venice.

- Making the most of L.A.
- Getting around town

 

An Occidental College professor sits next to a student as they look at their laptops together

We’re here to help

Your Oxy journey will be challenging, transformative and rewarding. Our team of dedicated professionals is here to offer guidance and support whenever you need it.

- Student resources and support
- Student Success
- A Culture of Care

 

 

Occidental College Neighborhood Tour: Highland Park

Occidental College is tucked between the eclectic neighborhoods of Eagle Rock and Highland Park. In this tour, Shae Campbell shows us around the shops and cafes on Eagle Rock Blvd. and York Blvd. and give some tips on how to get around the city.

Inside The Occidental: The College’s Student-Run Newspaper

Since 1893, The Occidental has been written, published and distributed by students for the Occidental College community. Meet some of the team behind the student newspaper and hear about what makes the newsroom such a special part of campus.