Whittier College calls itself a “hidden gem,” and honestly, it’s not just marketing speak. With fewer than 1,500 students, it feels more like a cozy hangout than a massive lecture hall factory.
Think of it as the quirky indie coffee shop of colleges, while the big state schools are chain restaurants. It’s personal, it’s intimate, and your professors will actually know your name—and your dog’s name, probably.
Plus, the campus is a gorgeous mix of Spanish Mission-style architecture and modern buildings. It’s like a vacation that also gives you a diploma.
A History That (Actually) Matters
Founded in 1887 by the Quakers (the peace-loving folks who also gave you oatmeal), Whittier started as a place for “non-sectarian” education. Translation: they were chill about religion before being “chill” was trendy.
That Quaker influence is still alive today. The school emphasizes social justice, community service, and dialogue over shouting. It’s basically the opposite of a Twitter argument.
And hey, the city of Whittier itself is a cute, walkable suburb with a historic downtown. It’s not Hollywood, but you can get a killer burrito and find parking easily. Winning.
