Hey, I’m Hannah, sending you warm greetings from the United States! I’m currently doing my semester abroad at Pepperdine University in Malibu, Southern California.
My semester began with an orientation day, followed by an exciting week filled with events. Compared to MCI, the campus here is huge and overlooks the Pacific Ocean. The classes at the university are quite demanding, with submissions due each week, but my friends and I make the most of every free moment to explore the states.
My journey began by borrowing my grandfather’s car from New Jersey on the East Coast, to drive across the country to California. It took me about a week, which is why I decided to make a little vacation out of it. On my way, I visited my family and explored a few national parks and monuments.
The university's networking events and sports programs are incredibly diverse, and you can use the Athletics Center, which includes a gym and a swimming pool.
One concern I had was finding an apartment, as the dorms are pricier than getting an apartment off-campus and fill up quite quickly. So, I decided to live at Calamigos Living, which turned out to be a great experience. The rent at Calamigos also included access to 4-star hotel amenities, such as hot tubs, a gym, and the private beach club. Since I had a car, it was no problem getting to my classes from the Santa Monica Mountains. Some other exchange students opted for an Airbnb in Venice Beach and Santa Monica, where a bus line runs.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the area is prone to earthquakes and wildfires, which I got to experience. But to be honest, it just added to the unforgettable adventure and was quite exciting for someone who had never felt a 4.7 magnitude earthquake before. The Malibu Franklin Fire, which caused major evacuations, including myself for two days, broke out just next to campus and then spread onto campus. That was scarier, especially in the moment, but thankfully no one got hurt.
Spending a semester abroad in Malibu is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I can only encourage everyone to take this step and gather unique experiences that you’ll look back on for the rest of your life.
Warm regards,
Hannah
Hannah used every spare moment to explore the country © Öfner
Hannah studied for a semester at Pepperdine University © Öfner
Out and about in Pacific Park in Santa Monica © Öfner
The breathtaking view from Pepperdine University to the sea © Öfner
The Master's student also explores Los Angeles, of course © Öfner
Entrepreneurship, Tourism & Leisure Business | Bachelor
Entrepreneurship & Tourism | Master
Pepperdine University, Malibu, California
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