Comments | _occidental: What's it like?

emilytravel in _occidental

What's it like?

Nov 08, 2005 22:21

Hello. I am considering going to Occidental for Cognitive science. (I am a transfer student, so I'm pretty sure that's what I want to major in) Anyone out there have any insight into the program? Also, what is Occidental like in general? And the Los Angeles area? What kind of recreational sports are popular? Are people very politically minded? Is ( Read more... )

Comments 7

iplaythepart November 8 2005, 09:08:19 UTC

I don't know from science, so we'll skip that part.

Oxy's a good school. It has its quirks like any school, but it's good people, that's a very important thing.

You either love Los Angeles or you hate it. That's how that works. I was born and bred here, never want to leave.

There's tons of politics going on, but I don't concern myself with those...

There's a nice queer community. That said, I still can't find a boyfriend.

I don't know from science workloads, but I don't think in general it's that bad.

One of my best friends is a juggler. He juggles fire, knives, clubs, small children, it's fun times. We're preparing a show up at the theatre featuring his talents.

Good Jews here, too. I'm on the Hillel mailing list, even though I go to services in Hollywood.

It's a good school. But just come to campus and talk to people. That's the best way to find out.

But yes, queers, jugglers, and Jews. We know our priorities.

deadlierchair November 8 2005, 09:17:05 UTC

I would agree, queers, jugglers, politics, Jews, all seem to be pretty active here at Oxy (though 'active' on a 1800 student campus and a 20,000 student campus can mean different things I would think). Right now I'm doing a physics major and the workload is not bad at all. I guess I work maybe 2 hours a day and more if a paper or whatever is due.

It depends on where you come from I think if you like LA. If you're from LA or California or love being able to not go anywhere without having a car (heh) then you'll probably enjoy it. But even for a big, dirty, sprawling city you can still enjoy yourself and not feel so overwhelmed walking around Pasadena or Eagle Rock if you're desperate.

juggleboy November 8 2005, 10:54:46 UTC

Jugglers!

I am the aforementioned friend of Brandon's that juggles. And yeah, there's a bunch of jugglers on campus. In fact, there's one right across the hall from me. Do you juggle? You should come to Oxy and juggle with us!

kaytathan November 8 2005, 16:35:07 UTC

..were you in a brochure-type-thing that oxy sent out about all the unique kids that go there etc.? because if you were, then i read your entire article and was very impressed..and a little scared (good way). i like your outfit

ps. i'm applying early D to oxy, hence the brochure

-kayt

juggleboy November 8 2005, 16:47:14 UTC

Um, I think so? There was an article about me (and a few other weirdos ;-) ) that make up this year's freshman class, but it was in the alumni magazine. I suppose they could have sent that to you.

I'm glad you like the outfit :-)

Good luck with your application! If you need any help or advice or whatever, feel free to ask.

kaytathan November 8 2005, 17:26:55 UTC

Good deal, and i hope that you keep the bowtie.. forever.

thanks for the offer, i just might take you up on it! good luck with school and juggling sharp dangerous things that can kill you

(im just jealous because i cant juggle for my life)

tardcorps November 8 2005, 17:25:04 UTC

I'm Jewish, was on the track team and graduated with the BA in Cogsci last spring.

I feel like it might be easier if you contacted me via email or IM. I could share a lot more information that way than just typing into this reply box. That way you could ask me specific questions about the program, sports, as well as Judaism on campus.

Just as a blurb right now, the Cogsci program is superb; I'm very glad I majored in what i had. Most of the professors in the department are wonderful, with a particular emphasis on Dr Brighouse and Dr Linden. The whole department is very open and caring which really is a huge plus. I loved all of my professors in the department, but particularly had a fondness for the afore mentioned teachers.

Feel free to contact me on facebook or myspace. The facebook one also has a link to my IM. Please feel free to contact me on any of those services (facebook, myspace or AIM). I would be glad to talk to you about all that Oxy has to offer ( ... )