Domestic Exchange Student Reflections
Loyola Marymount University
Currently, I am in my second semester of domestic exchange at Loyola Marymount University. This semester, my course load is not as heavy, so I have had more time to explore what LMU has to offer, as well as Los Angeles.
Now that I have been here for almost six months, I can say that the staff and faculty really care for their students. The community is smaller than USC or UCLA; however, I prefer it because it is not too big, and not too small (about 2 times larger than Spelman). My classes have been fantastic. Professors really go out of their way to assist you, and I feel like the work is focused more on you bringing your personal understanding to the table, and diving into deeper conversations. For example, my classes have pushed me to think both subjectively and objectively about class material, but also, about how my unique identity can contribute to the industry I am studying.
Additionally, the culture of LMU is very relaxing. The beautiful palm trees and sunny days greet you every time you walk outside, which seriously puts you in a good mood. Campus never seems crowded, even when events are going on. The campus also has many spaces that allow you to concentrate and get away from distractions. Another aspect I like about LMU is the abundance of campus-to-career/networking opportunities. The Career & Professional Development office hosts one Career Trek per semester, which I participated in last October. Each year, the Treks focus on an industry (ex: Arts and Entertainment, Environmental Science, Careers in Business, etc.). Selected students get the opportunity to meet with alumni and industry professionals from different companies. These three-day outings help students to start narrowing down their career interests. The Career Trek I went on last semester helped me to network with an alumnus, with whom I am now interning at her entertainment company. LMU also holds many career fairs, as well as career talks where professionals and experts from a variety of fields visit campus to speak with students.
Since LMU is located in Los Angeles, California, I find many students spend most of their time off campus because there is so much to do. LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) is not too far from campus, and has special “College Nights” where students receive free admission. I went recently and had an awesome time. Many students from colleges all over LA attend so you get to meet people beyond your campus. It is easy to get around because LMU has a school shuttle that runs Monday-Sunday, and by reservation. Being at LMU thus far has been a valuable experience because the school is very diverse, and LA has a diverse population. LMU has also given me a deeper understanding of the importance of culture.
