Discover Los Angeles through guided experiences with fellow Occidental students.
LA Engage is a SLICE program that introduces students to the vibrant city of Los Angeles through guided experiences throughout the year. Led by LA Engage student trip coordinators and supported by staff and faculty chaperones, these outings help students explore the city鈥檚 culture, art, history, food, neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks鈥攚hile building community with new peers.
Whether you鈥檙e new to Los Angeles or looking to deepen your connection to the city, LA Engage is designed to help you feel oriented, curious, and confident navigating L.A.
What to Expect
LA Engage experiences vary each year, but often include opportunities to:
- explore iconic Los Angeles landmarks and cultural institutions
- discover neighborhood 鈥渓ocal gems鈥 and hidden favorites
- experience Los Angeles through food, art, architecture, and the outdoors
- connect with other students in a fun, welcoming setting
- learn practical tips for getting around and making the most of Los Angeles
Past Experiences and Highlights
To give a sense of what LA Engage can include, past experiences have featured:
A classic L.A. 鈥渨elcome鈥 night out
A private screening at Vidiots (a beloved neighborhood theater)鈥攁n easy and fun way to meet classmates and kick off the Occidental experience.
Neighborhood explorations (local gems in Eagle Rock and Highland Park)
- a light hike with panoramic city views
- sweet treats along a neighborhood corridor
- a food-focused scavenger hunt featuring local favorites
- a community hangout activity such as bowling at a historic venue
Los Angeles icons and cultural landmarks
- visits to architectural and arts destinations (for example, performance halls and contemporary art museums)
- a ride on Angel's Flight, an historic L.A. railway
- lunch at Grand Central Market, a landmark market known for diverse food options
- a planetarium show and sweeping views from the iconic Griffith Observatory
Coastal and beach day adventures
- a stop at a the Getty Villa museum and gardens overlooking the coastline
- scavenger hunts and exploring well-known beach neighborhoods including Venice and Santa Monica
- free time to enjoy the ocean with options like swimming, games, bike/scooter rentals, or a guided walk
Signature L.A. sports nights
Group outings to major-league games, an L.A. tradition and a memorable way to celebrate the start of every season.
How to Find Upcoming LA Engage Events
Current students can find upcoming LA Engage events and sign-up details on RAFTR (Occidental鈥檚 campus engagement platform) and through SLICE communications. If you have questions about participating, please contact Ta铆na Morales at tmorales@oxy.edu.
