Introduction
Founded in 1887, Occidental College is a private liberal arts college located in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. It is one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the western United States. Occidental offers a wide range of academic programs and opportunities for students to explore their interests and develop their skills. The college has a vibrant student life and a strong sense of community. In this post, we will explore some of the fun facts about Occidental College that make it a great place to learn and grow.
History and Traditions
Occidental College is steeped in history and tradition. The college was founded in 1887 by a group of Presbyterian ministers and laymen. It was originally named Occidental College and School of Music. The college has grown over the years and now offers a wide range of academic programs and opportunities for students to explore their interests and develop their skills.
The college has an impressive collection of traditions, including the annual May Day celebration, which features a procession of students dressed in traditional May Day costumes. The college also has an annual “Oxy Idol” competition, where students perform in front of a panel of judges. The college also hosts a number of distinguished speakers each year, including former presidents, Nobel laureates, and other prominent figures.
Campus Life
Occidental College offers a vibrant campus life. The college has a wide range of student organizations and activities, ranging from academic and cultural clubs to student government and intramural sports. The college also offers a wide range of student events and activities, including film screenings, lectures, concerts, and other events.
The college also has a wide range of recreational facilities, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool, tennis courts, a fitness center, and a climbing wall. The college also has a wide range of dining options, including a variety of restaurants and cafes.
Notable Alumni
Occidental College has produced a number of prominent alumni, including U.S. President Barack Obama, actor Jack Nicholson, and musician Frank Zappa. The college has also produced a number of prominent scholars, including Nobel Prize winners John Nash and George Akerlof.
The college has also produced a number of prominent athletes, including Major League Baseball players Mark McGwire and Troy Percival, and NBA player James Worthy. The college also has a number of notable alumni in the entertainment industry, including actors Ryan Gosling, John Krasinski, and Emma Stone.
Athletics
Occidental College has a long and proud history of athletics. The college fields teams in a number of sports, including baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball, swimming, and track and field. The college also has a number of club sports, including rugby, ultimate frisbee, and water polo.
The college is a member of the NCAA Division III and competes in the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. The college has won a number of conference championships and has produced a number of All-Americans.
Academics
Occidental College offers a wide range of academic programs, including majors in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The college also offers a number of interdisciplinary programs, such as environmental studies, gender and sexuality studies, and urban studies.
The college also offers a number of pre-professional programs, including pre-law, pre-med, and pre-business. The college also offers a number of study abroad programs, including programs in Australia, China, France, and Spain.
Conclusion
Occidental College is a vibrant and historic liberal arts college located in the Eagle Rock neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. The college has a long and proud history and a wide range of academic programs and opportunities for students to explore their interests and develop their skills. From its impressive collection of traditions to its impressive list of alumni, Occidental College is a great place to learn and grow.