California dreamin'

Hi y'all, I'm planning on applying to colleges in California. I'm a big sucker for a beautiful campus, so could anyone tell me which Cali campuses are considered the most attractive?

California is home to numerous colleges and universities of varying sizes, each one uniquely appealing in its architecture and landscapes. Here are a few standouts in terms of aesthetics:

1. Stanford University: Known for its Mission Revival style architecture, Stanford's campus boasts scenic palm trees and Rodin’s Burghers of Calais, amongst other sculptures in the Rodin Sculpture Garden. Its main quad is breathtaking, complete with memorable arches and frequent sightings of bike-riding students.

2. University of Southern California (USC): With a blend of Romanesque Revival and modern designs, USC’s campus stands out. The red brick buildings, expansive parks, and comfortable study spaces make it a favorite for students.

3. University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB): If the beach is your ideal setting, UCSB is your dream campus. Nestled right next to the Pacific Ocean, the beach is just steps away from the academic buildings.

4. University of San Diego (USD): Another stunning campus, USD features Spanish Renaissance architecture. It also provides views of the San Diego Harbor and the Pacific Ocean, which some might find quite appealing.

5. Pepperdine University: This underrated Malibu gem overlooks the beautiful California Pacific coastline. The campus architecture blends well with the beachy surroundings.

6. University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley): If you love greenery and historic architecture, UC Berkeley would be your style. With sprawling lawns, wooded areas, and classic architectural styles, this campus has an endearing old-school charm.

Remember, while campus beauty is important to some students, you should also consider factors such as the school's academics, student culture, and financial aid when making your decision. You want to choose a school where you'll not just be in a beautiful setting, but also able to pursue your personal and academic goals within that setting.

As you build your college list, you may find college search engines useful, like CollegeVine's, which allows you to filter schools based on a range of factors. While campus beauty isn't one of them, location is, as are majors offered, student/faculty ratio, admissions requirements, and so on. This tool can help you build a list of schools that are sure to be a good all-around fit for you. You can access the search engine here: https://www.collegevine.com/schools/hub

Good luck in your search for the perfect overall campus experience!