Southern California Colleges and Culture

With its sunny weather, thriving arts and entertainment scenes, and rich cultural offerings, Southern California is a popular destination for Dawson students heading off to college. In terms of higher education, California offers something for everyone: large state public institutions, mid-sized private research institutions, and small liberal arts colleges, as well as arts and technical institutes. For students beginning the college search process, it’s the ideal place to start.

A sampling of the schools we may visit includes the University of San Diego, UCSD, San Diego State University, UC Irvine, Chapman University, the Claremont Colleges, and Cal Poly. Our Winterim will begin on Friday, March 5 with a full day of programming at CU Boulder. Attendance is required.

In addition to learning about colleges, we will explore some of Southern California’s culture. Specifically, we will spend time in Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo as well as visit downtown Disney.  

Students will come away with a clear understanding of the college admissions process. They will visit with admissions officers, speak to current students (including Dawson graduates), and research specific majors, programs, and offerings at each school. Students will keep a journal of their impressions of each school as a way to help define their own desires for their undergraduate education.    

Educational Goals:

  1. Develop a clearer understanding of the college admissions process.

  2. Explore the students’ own interests and desires for an undergraduate college experience.

  3. Generate a journal of their impressions of each college to aid in the application process.

  4. Explore a variety of college and university environments.

Instructors: Andria Hall, Jose B. Lopez, Sarah Morissette

Open to: Grades 10-11

Limit: 18 students    

Cost: $1975

Local Day: Friday, March 5 

Depart: Sunday, March 7   

Return: Friday, March 12