College Spotlight: Chapman University
Get the inside scoop on Chapman University.
Chapman University is one of the oldest private universities in California, located in Orange, a short drive to Disneyland and a stone's throw to LA. It’s renowned Dodge College of Film and Media Arts offers a “roll up your sleeves” and dive right in approach with majors such as Film and Television, Broadcast Journalism and Documentary, PR, Advertising & Entertainment Marketing and Writing and Film for Television. Beyond Dodge, students flock to other popular majors such as Business Administration, Communication Studies and Biology. The Chapman Panthers compete in Division III athletics and there is no shortage of clubs and organizations for students. In today’s College Spotlight we speak with Carlos Leyva, Senior Admission Counselor, who generously shares what makes the university unique– beyond the “guidebook.”
Q: What is your favorite part of campus and why?
Carlos: If we're talking about a physical space on campus, I would probably have to choose the 3rd floor athenaeum of Argyros Forum (student union). It is one of the few balcony spots we have on campus but it doesn't seem to get all that much attention. I am personally drawn to it because of my experiences as a student at the university. It was a place where I did a lot of soul searching and reflection. Today, it serves as a reminder that I should slow down sometimes in this fast paced world we live in. The student body is probably my favorite non-physical part of Chapman. Having been a part of the Chapman community for 10 years now, the people remain one of the most consistent parts of the Chapman experience. The collaborative nature of our students is something that I always share with prospective students and families. People feel supported here not just by staff but their peers too.
Q: What is your favorite campus tradition?
Carlos: My favorite campus tradition would have to be our candle lighting ceremony during Orientation Week. It is an opportunity for new students and their families to reflect on their journey thus far. In addition, it gives students an opportunity to celebrate this next chapter of their life. It tends to be an emotional event, with no shortage of tears. However, it always ends up as a highlight for me every year when I attend because of it’s significance.
Q: What academic insights can you share? Is there anything that sets you apart academically?
Carlos: One aspect about our academics that is unique is how much our classes and programs are influenced by the industry they correlate to. Our goal is to prepare students for their career and in many cases that may involve the curriculum changing for each major as industries evolve. For example, the Fowler School of Engineering works closely with industry professionals as the engineering school found that there was a need for cybersecurity experts in the workforce. Soon after, they introduced the Information Security and Policy minor that has become pertinent for students looking to enter this line of work. This shift has influenced employment opportunities for our students, affecting recruitment efforts from aerospace companies and government agencies, as the demand for their knowledge is high. This is one of many examples of Chapman not being satisfied with "what is" and instead seeking out "what could be."
Helping you soar sooner,
Carrie