Santa Monica College Choices

Hey guys! I'm a junior in high school and I've been looking into colleges in Santa Monica. Which ones do you think I should consider and what's unique about these schools that make them worth checking out?

Hello! Santa Monica is a great area with some good college options. I'll mention a few that you might consider and highlight what makes each of them special:

1. Santa Monica College (SMC): This is a highly-regarded community college known for its strong academic programs and transfer rates. SMC has a supportive academic environment, a beautiful campus, and a variety of extracurricular activities. It's particularly well-known for its strong transfer program to 4-year institutions, including the University of California and California State University systems, as well as numerous private colleges.

2. Loyola Marymount University (LMU): While LMU is not located directly in Santa Monica, it's nearby in Westchester, just a short drive away. It is a private university with a beautiful campus and a diverse, inclusive atmosphere. LMU offers various majors and minors, with strong programs in liberal arts, film and television, business, and engineering. As a Catholic Jesuit institution, LMU emphasizes social justice and service to others.

3. Pepperdine University: Though not located in Santa Monica, Pepperdine is in neighboring Malibu and might be worth considering. It's a private, Christian university known for its breathtaking campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Pepperdine offers a strong liberal arts education with popular programs in psychology, business administration, and communication. The university's Christian values are well integrated into the curriculum, and you'll find opportunities for spiritual growth on-campus.

4. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA): Another college that's not right in Santa Monica but close by is UCLA in Westwood. This highly-ranked public research university is part of the prestigious UC system and offers a wide range of academic programs. With state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant student life, UCLA has a lot to offer in terms of research opportunities, clubs and organizations, and athletics.

Take some time to research each of these colleges and their respective programs to determine which ones align with your academic interests and personal values. You may also want to visit the campuses and attend information sessions to get a better feel for the school culture and environment. Good luck with your college search!