Student Life

With the California sun above, and the Pacific Coast as your backdrop, you couldn’t ask for a more spectacular summer setting. And we’re positive you’re going to find plenty of activities that match your interests indoors and out! Join us for The College Advantage Pac-12 prep program in LA, and you’ll spend weekends exploring spectacular cultural and entertainment destinations after touring top college campuses. You’ll eat at the most popular LA restaurants and visit can’t-miss destinations and attractions. We promise an unforgettable summer preparing for your college career and participating in amazing adventures!

Your home in California, Westwood, sits on the steps of the stunning Cascade Mountains. Westwood, the entertainment center of the UCLA community, features a wide range of shops like Brandy Melville, American Apparel and more. Westwood also has plenty of fun restaurants, mom and pop diners, and — of course — movie theaters! The iconic Regency Village Theatre hosts renowned movie premieres and is a prime location for celebrity sightings.

Freedom-of-Choice Activities

The College Advantage students will sign up for daily and evening activity options (called Freedom-of-Choice), and staff will be assigned to those activities to facilitate and assist each student during his or her time on the program.

Los Angeles Favorites

Santa Monica Pier– A favorite for Hollywood movie scenes, this California icon comes alive at night. Take a ride on the world’s first solar-powered Ferris wheel, or stop by the famed aquarium to get nose-to-nose with exotic ocean life!

Third Street Promenade– The world-famous strip features designer boutiques and award-winning restaurants, all in the heart of Santa Monica. The outdoor mall is full of colorful street entertainers, magicians and dancers who take advantage of perfect California weather to perform.

Palisades Park– Stunning ocean views makes this the perfect place to savor nature. In contrast to the fast pace of LA living and Hollywood glamour, this is an ideal spot to just chill out, California style.

The Grove– For shopping, dining and simply living life, you can’t do better than the Grove. Make sure to sample some the fresh fruits and veggies next door at the original Farmers’ Market, an LA landmark.

Venice Beach– Stroll the shops and eateries on Venice Beach’s beautiful Boardwalk. It features plenty of far-out attractions and some of the best people-watching on the planet.

Hollywood Walk of Fame– This entertainment icon immortalizes more than 2,400 stars along a two-mile stretch of Hollywood Boulevard. Take a stroll, and you’re bound to spot a favorite TV or movie star.

TCL Chinese Theater– The most sought-after theater for Hollywood premieres, this famed theater has witnessed the debut of too many blockbusters to list.

Zuma Beach– Stunning views along the Pacific Coast Highway lead to three miles of pristine sands that have long been a favorite for movie location scouts. Feeling active? Grab a volleyball and try your skill on the same beach the pros have competed on for decades.

Universal City Walk– LA comes to life at the City Walk. Grab a bite at one of the famous restaurants and then hit the trendy shops before bracing yourself for thrilling activities, all set under the beautiful California stars.

Marina del Rey– One of LA’s most beautiful marinas lets you stroll down the docks while enjoying a California sunset.

First-Rate Rec Facilities

You’ll have access to state-of-the-art workout facilities such as the renowned John Wooden Center and plenty of other athletic and recreational options during your stay. You can lace up your running shoes for a jog on campus, hit one of the top-notch gyms to pump some iron, or get moving on an elliptical trainer. Outdoor tennis courts, basketball courts, swimming pools and plenty of other options are sure to keep you active and busy. Of course, a game of touch football or a little Frisbee is always a campus classic. One of the most exciting things about LA is you never know who you may run into whether it’s Kobe Bryant shooting hoops in the Wooden Center or Real Madrid practicing out on the soccer fields.  Just make sure to pack your workout gear — it’s going to be a very active summer! 

You will have time to take advantage of all the outstanding options available at the John Wooden Center, which include:

• Squash Courts
• Weight Room
• Basketball Courts
• Cardio Room

UCLA’s other world-class facilities include:

• Pauley Pavilion Arena
• Sunset Canyon pools
• Los Angeles Tennis Center
• Drake Track Stadium