Thematic Communities
What are thematic communities?
Thematic communities provide residents with an opportunity to live in a community where individuals share common personal, social, and intellectual interests. Those who apply to live in one of our six communities have an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions around common themes or academic programs. Residents participating in these communities will develop support networks that can help aid in their college transition.
All students, regardless of sex, race, color, national origin, or any other protected identity, are welcome and eligible to participate in the thematic communities.
How can I apply for a thematic community?
Students who chose to apply for a Thematic Community and are selected will be placed in one of the designated floors, halls, or buildings. Any student interested in this community is encouraged to mark their interest in the housing application and answer the designated application questions. There is a limited amount of space per community, so applications will be closely reviewed on a rolling basis.
If you do not get into a Thematic Community, don't fret! All three Residential Villages will have intentional programming, fun activities, and ways to stay connected for all residents. You will feel right at home here at the Beach!
The Black & Pan-African Scholars House (BPASH) provides a welcoming place for students to engage in discourse about the Black/African American/African experience on campus and at large. This community is rooted in the spirit of connection and sense of belonging. Residents will have opportunities to explore their multiple identities, attend events, and create meaningful relationships with peers, staff, and faculty. BPASH will connect residents to offices across campus and provide academic, social, wellness, and cultural resources.
All students, regardless of race, color, ethnicity or national origin, who are interested in Black & Pan-African Scholars House are welcome to apply.
Black & Pan-African Scholars House is located at Parkside Village in H building.
As members of the BPASH community, residents will:
- Build lasting and supportive relationships with peers and university staff at
- Participate in programs and activities that celebrate history and traditions around Black Excellence
- Access to our vibrant common lounge and study room
- Celebrate their identity and lived experiences through reflection, dialogue, and events
- Connect with campus resources, departments and alumni to support their academic success and personal development
What to Look Forward to?
Collective Support
Live among peers and staff who understand your journey and are here to guide, encourage, and advocate for you.
Intentional Programs
Monthly building events and programs designed to support academic, personal, cultural, and social growth.
Opportunities to Connect
Participate in off-campus excursions and community traditions that help you build relationships and connect with fellow BPASH students.
The First Generation House (First Gen House) supports first-generation college students* of all backgrounds as they transition into college life and become active members of the community. It strives to celebrate the first-gen experience and create a space where residents can share their stories, build connections, and feel a strong sense of belonging.
*First generation college students are defined as students whose parents do not have a four-year college degree.
Residents choosing to live in the First Gen House are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, explore campus resources, and take advantage of opportunities that support their academic and personal growth. Through programs and activities focused on academic success, holistic wellness, and community engagement, residents build skills and confidence that will support them throughout their college journey.
First Gen House is located in Parkside Village in M building.
As members of the First Gen House, residents will:
- Build meaningful peer and staff connections that support their transition to college and serve as a foundation for continued engagement at
- Celebrate their identity and lived experiences as a first generation student through reflection, dialogue, and events
- Utilize campus resources that support their academic success and personal development beyond their first year
What to Look Forward to?
Tailored Programs
Monthly building events and programs designed to support first-gen students’ academic, personal, and social growth.
Supportive Community
Live among peers and staff who understand your journey and are here to guide, encourage, and advocate for you.
Opportunities to Connect
Participate in off-campus excursions and community traditions that help you build relationships and connect with fellow first-generation students.
International House (I-House) aims to provide all students of different cultures and nationalities with the opportunity to explore global cultural exchange through their residential experience at The Beach. Residents choosing to live in International House will be able to learn about other cultures and share experiences with scholars from around the world. International House provides opportunities for connection through programmatic opportunities, networking with campus partners, and opportunities to explore the Greater Los Angeles Area and beyond. A living experience in International House aims to prepare students to meet the challenges of an evolving global society through creative and critical thinking inspired by the diverse thought that comes from cultural immersion.
I-House is located in Hillside Village at the International House building across Beach Drive from the main housing office. I-House is open to all matriculated students, international and domestic.
As members of the International House, residents will:
- Participate in engaging programs that explore various histories, traditions, and cultural influences
- Foster meaningful lifelong peer connections that support their experience at The Beach and on a global scale
- Develop intercultural competency through learning to transcend cultures to appreciate our common humanity
What to look forward to:
Meaningful Connections
Continuous interaction with students from across the globe attending as an international, exchange, study abroad, or domestic student.
Convenient Engagement Opportunities
Regular programming from department staff, Study Abroad @ The Beach, and campus partners from the comfort of your living room, backyard, and shared kitchen
Understanding of Self and Others
Learn more about others through formal and informal programs and dialogue leading to cultural exchange and have the opportunity to make meaning of your own values and experiences.
Pride House provides a welcoming residential community for students interested in exploring and celebrating diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and intersecting identities. This community encourages residents to engage in dialogue about issues impacting LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, etc.) communities while building a strong sense of belonging and connection within the residential environment.
Residents of Pride House will have opportunities to participate in educational programs, connect with campus resources, and engage in conversations that promote understanding, advocacy, and inclusive leadership. Pride House aims to create a supportive and affirming space where students can explore identity, develop meaningful relationships, and grow both personally and academically.
All students, regardless of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, who are interested in Pride House are welcome to apply.
Pride House will be located at Hillside in B building.
As members of the Pride House community, residents will:
• Build supportive relationships with peers and staff who value identity exploration and inclusive community
• Participate in programs and conversations that highlight and celebrate LGBTQIA+ history, experiences, and advocacy
• Access to shared residential spaces that foster connection, reflection, and community engagement
• Explore their identities while learning about the diverse experiences within the LGBTQIA+ community
• Connect with campus resources, departments, and organizations that support LGBTQIA+ student success and wellbeing
What to Look Forward to?
A Supportive Community:
Live among peers who value authenticity, belonging, and creating a welcoming environment for all identities.
Meaningful Programs:
Participate in programs and discussions that explore identity, advocacy, and the experiences of LGBTQIA+ communities.
Opportunities to Connect:
Attend community events, traditions, and excursions that foster friendships and strengthen connections with fellow Pride House residents.
The Transfer & Continuing Student Community (Transfer Community) welcomes continuing and incoming transfer students of all backgrounds, majors, and experiences offering them opportunities to live and learn in an environment that fosters academic success, social support, professional and personal development. This community provides a specific place for students that have transferred from community colleges & other universities the opportunity to make connections with students of similar experiences, access to campus resources, life on campus, and a built-in peer network that will aide in their successful transition at .
Transfer Community will be located at Hillside in Los Alamitos Hall. Depending on the number of applicants to the Transfer Community, non-thematic community residents may have the opportunity to live in Los Alamitos.
As members of the Transfer & Continuing Student Community, residents will:
- Reflect on their transfer student identity through acknowledging the strengths, experiences, and perspectives they bring.
- Engage in programs and opportunities to deepen their connection to the Transfer community.
- Connect with resources to explore and develop academic and professional goals.
What to Look Forward to?
Tailored Programs
Monthly programs with Transfer needs in mind to provide support navigating s academic and social communities.
Dedicated Staff
Live in staff who intentionally focus on supporting transfer students; people who understand your transition and honor your experiences.
Community that “gets it”
Living with peers who know what it means to balance school, work, family, and transitioning to a new institution. A community where you can find encouragement, celebrate your experience, and build a community that lasts beyond your first year at .
The University Honors House (Honors House) provides a residential community for students admitted to the who are committed to academic excellence and intellectual curiosity. This community supports students as they navigate the academic rigor and collaborative nature of the Honors curriculum while living among peers who share similar academic goals and aspirations.
Residents of Honors House will have opportunities to engage with fellow Honors students, participate in community-building programs, and develop connections that support both their academic and personal growth. This residential environment fosters meaningful dialogue, peer support, and interdisciplinary thinking that enhances the Honors student experience.
All students admitted to the University Honors Program who are interested in living in University Honors House are welcome to apply.
University Honors House will be located at Hillside in Los Cerritos building. Depending on the number of applicants to the Honors House community, residents who are not in the honors program may have the opportunity to live in Los Cerritos.
As members of the University Honors House community, residents will:
- Build supportive relationships with fellow Honors students navigating similar academic experiences
- Participate in community programs that encourage intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and discussion
- Access to shared residential spaces that support studying, group collaboration, and community engagement
- Develop a supportive network that enhances both their academic journey and residential experience
- Connect with peers who share interests in academic achievement, leadership, and interdisciplinary learning
What to Look Forward to?
Academic Community:
Live alongside peers who understand the challenges and opportunities of the Honors Program and value learning together.
Collaborative Environment:
Participate in programs and discussions that encourage idea sharing, intellectual exploration, and meaningful connection.
Supportive Residential Experience:
Be part of a community that values scholarship, curiosity, and building relationships that extend beyond the classroom.
