Westmont College seems to have a tight-knit community, which I love, but I'm still unsure about the campus ambience. Can someone familiar with the school share what the campus like?
Westmont College is nestled in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains in Santa Barbara, California. The location provides a serene and beautiful backdrop to the campus, featuring lush greenery, ocean views, and more.
Despite being quite compact size-wise (just around 115 acres), the campus is known for its distinct aesthetic. Mediterranean-style architecture dominates the buildings, with their white stucco walls and Spanish tile roofs fitting perfectly into the Southern California landscape. This beautiful architecture coupled with the natural surroundings creates a tranquil learning environment.
The weather is generally sunny and mild, which complements the outdoor-centric lifestyle associated with California. Students often take full advantage of this, studying or relaxing under trees or on the great lawns spread throughout the campus.
Additionally, the campus features resources like a state-of-the-art observatory, extensive library, and several art and performance spaces. It even has outdoor spaces equipped with Wi-Fi where you can study while enjoying the weather.
Being a small liberal arts college, the overall atmosphere of Westmont is indeed very close-knit. With a small student population, you'll likely get to know a significant portion of your classmates. You can expect that the tight community extends to faculty members as well, as the college boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio. In classes, this could translate to greater faculty attention and opportunities for discussion.
Bear in mind, though, that the campus's secluded location makes it relatively distant from downtown Santa Barbara. While the college does provide a shuttle service to downtown, the frequency and schedule might not be as flexible or convenient as having your own mode of transport.
Overall, Westmont's campus offers a unique combination of an intimate, supportive community with stunning natural beauty. It's a great fit for students who appreciate a smaller, more personal college experience amidst scenic surroundings.
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