CALLA JORDAN / CONTRIBUTOR

While attending the University of San Diego, students are able to immerse themselves not only in their higher education, but also into a city defined by its diverse blend of nature and a distinct appreciation for individual style. California’s relaxed and nature-centered atmosphere is unique to that of other states. For many out-of-state students, this can come as quite a culture shock. However, many students take riding the wave to heart, adopting this laid-back and expressive mentality. 

USD’s   beloved  sunny  weather    catches   the   attention   of      potential   students  nationwide. Its picturesque landscapes and ocean views earn the school a consistent top-tier annual ranking in the Princeton Review for one of the most beautiful  college campuses across the country. When students  first attend USD, they experience the typical, gradual  lifestyle changes that take place in any new social environment, but a California phenomenon inevitably strikes. 

California’s beachy culture adds a unique twist to students’ college experiences. The tropical climate creates mini staycations rather than weekends for Toreros, prompting beach days, matcha dates and lively thrift store browsing in Pacific Beach. The coastal state makes it easy for students to find outdoorsy outlets, helping students relax and find peace in a relatively stressful period of their lives. 

USD   junior   from   Washington  state,  Ben Johnston, has not taken the California coastline for granted. Johnston picked up surfing as a way to connect with the environment.

“I love how peaceful surfing is,” Johnston shared. “I just love being out in the water.”

California not only provides students with the perfect environment to try out new and exciting activities, the state also often pioneers progressive cultural and political shifts, attracting creative and open-minded individuals. This ultimately leads students to feel comfortable to express themselves through their personal style. 

USD sophomore  and Houston  native, Leila Nuri,  loves       showcasing her personality through   her fashion. However, back home in Texas, she noticed that many of her peers were more likely to stick to  southern fashion trends, rather than experimenting   with   other styles.

“I would always kind of dress the way I dress now in Houston, but it was different there, because I would stand out,” Nuri expressed. “Here you might still stand out, but everybody’s kind of doing their own thing.”

Nuri knew prior to coming to USD that she wanted to attend a university outside of Texas. She liked the idea of California because of its celebrated diversity, as well as its emphasis on the environment. Since moving to California, Nuri has noticed a definite contrast between California and Texas. Nuri appreciates the chill energy of San Diego and the opportunities that come along with living in such a distinctive and paradisal place. 

“I think the nature, surf culture and music culture all contribute to this stereotype,” Nuri expressed. “How can you not be laid back when you live right next to the beach?”

The ‘California effect’ not only influences USD student’s personal style, but also often slips into other aspects of how students are perceived. USD junior from Uruguay, Tizi Habsburg, highlighted how he has gradually been influenced by the California culture.

“It’s funny, because I don’t think I would personally say that I fit the California stereotype,” Habsburg noted. “But, I’ve been told by everyone around me, people that used to know me, people that have just met me, that I’m completely California-fied. The way I speak, and the way I act are definitely examples of that.”

USD Associate English Professor Joseph McGowan specializes in historical linguistics. While          some Torero’s might deny that Californians have any accent, McGowan argued that the dialectal assimilation when moving to USD is more than apparent. 

“There is an anxiety of influence when you move anywhere,” McGowan commented. “People modify their accents in their first-year at USD. They want to fit in… [For] others it is unconscious: they go to the beach and pick up a certain way of speaking. There is always a connotation with accents.”

Accents are symbols of an individual’s cultural and social background. Habsburg incorporates California lingo into his speech subconsciously, highlighting   the intuitive nature of   individuals to adapt  to their new  social surroundings. Habsburg experienced a shift in social norms and complexities since moving to San Diego. However, he was primarily   taken  aback by       the relaxed mindset obtained by many California residents. 

“I definitely used to have a much more structured lifestyle,” Habsburg expressed. “My life has a go-with-the-flow feel to it now. I have more liberty to try new things and just do the things I love.”

Habsburg surfed prior to living in San Diego, but it wasn’t until his move that he was able to consistently enjoy the waves. 

“San Diego has really consistent swell, so I have had more opportunities to get out there and meet others who also surf,” Habsburg  shared. 

A swell is often used to describe desirable waves for surfers of all levels. 

The low-stress California mantra doesn’t just stem from unwritten cultural expectations, but also from how embedded nature is in California culture. 

USD junior Sasha Paquini recently moved to North Park after growing up in Denver, Colorado. Pasquini noted how she has taken advantage of the nearby parks and nearly perfect weather to stay grounded and refreshed.  

“I love California because of how elevated my day to day life is,” Pasquini shared. “Everyday I step outside and I am a bit more appreciative  because of how nice the environment is around me.”

Pasquini acknowledged a distinct culture shock since coming from a landlocked state to the golden coast, a change she does not take for granted.

“It comes with a price,” Pasquini shared. “California is more expensive than other states. It’s definitely a privilege to be here.”

This ‘California Effect’ is provoked by an unmatched appreciation for natural diversity and the emphasis on relaxation and enjoyment. Living in San Diego enables students to step outside of their comfort zones and find activities that foster expression and personal  growth.  Many of USD’s out-of-state students dreamt of ‘Californiacation,’ and since their  move,  have embraced   the state  full heartedly. 

Coconut water, ‘Rainbow’ flip-flops and lighthearted beach reads are all San Diego staples. Calla Jordan/The USD Vista