What Occidental College Students Think of Eagle Rock

Wednesday, Sept. 5, will mark a week since reopened after the summer break. According to a banner that has been flying lately on the intersection of Colorado Boulevard and Eagle Rock Boulevard, Oxy students were warmly welcomed by the Eagle Rock Chamber of Commerce and the CD 14 office of Councilmember José Huizar (see photo).

Eagle Rock Patch interviewed a few Oxy students—and one recent graduate—on campus Tuesday and asked them about their thoughts regarding Eagle Rock, especially what they love about it and where they enjoy spending time in the neighborhood. Excerpts:

Taylor Rowland, Senior, Film major

Eagle Rock is a great place but it’s still an untapped jewel of sorts. When I talk to people downtown or in Greater Los Angeles, they’re not sure what exactly Eagle Rock is. So we often get a privileged look at a small town from people who don’t necessarily know about it and don’t think of it as a part of East LA or Northeast LA.

Rebecca Miller, Oxy Graduate in English, 2012

I love Eagle Rock. Even though we’re in Los Angeles, it feels like its own town. People are friendly, even though they may not know you. It feels like home now.

Eddie Gonzalez, Sophomore, Art major

I always eat at . The pad thai there is the best—and I can’t go to any other Thai restaurant. I also love the . People are friendly and the nightlife is very calm and chill.

Jackie Swett, Junior, Art History major

I love that Eagle Rock is a diverse community. It doesn’t feel like Occidental College is a bubble.

Chris Harms, Junior, Kinesology major

It like the laid-back atmosphere. It’s nice to get away from all the business of the city, but at the same time I like the closeness to the city, too. There’s plenty to do here—and Pasadena is five minutes away.

Michaela Tsuha, Freshman, Biology major

I haven’t been able to venture out in Eagle Rock yet, but I’ve heard there are a lot great eating places. I heard there’s a real great Thai place and a Mexican place, although I’m not sure if they’re within walking distance of Occidental.