• Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • About Us
  • Contact
  • Advertising
  • Join PGM
Pepperdine Graphic

Pepperdine Graphic

  • News
    • Good News
  • Sports
    • Hot Shots
  • Life & Arts
  • Perspectives
    • Advice Column
    • Waves Comic
  • GNews
    • Staff Spotlights
    • First and Foremost
    • Allgood Food
    • Pepp in Your Step
    • DunnCensored
    • Beyond the Statistics
  • Special Publications
    • 5 Years In
    • L.A. County Fires
    • Change in Sports
    • Solutions Journalism: Climate Anxiety
    • Common Threads
    • Art Edition
    • Peace Through Music
    • Climate Change
    • Everybody Has One
    • If It Bleeds
    • By the Numbers
    • LGBTQ+ Edition: We Are All Human
    • Where We Stand: One Year Later
    • In the Midst of Tragedy
  • Currents
    • Currents Spring 2025
    • Currents Fall 2024
    • Currents Spring 2024
    • Currents Winter 2024
    • Currents Spring 2023
    • Currents Fall 2022
    • Spring 2022: Moments
    • Fall 2021: Global Citizenship
    • Spring 2021: Beauty From Ashes
    • Fall 2020: Humans of Pepperdine
    • Spring 2020: Everyday Feminism
    • Fall 2019: Challenging Perceptions of Light & Dark
  • Podcasts
    • On the Other Hand
    • RE: Connect
    • Small Studio Sessions
    • SportsWaves
    • The Graph
    • The Melanated Muckraker
  • Print Editions
  • NewsWaves
  • Sponsored Content
  • Digital Deliveries
  • DPS Crime Logs

Advice Column: Surfing Through First Semester

August 16, 2023 by Victoria La Ferla


Art by Sarah Rietz

Transparency Item: The Perspectives section of the Graphic includes an advice column based on new topics and different writers thoughts. This is the opinion and perspective of the writer.

Hey there Waves,

Make sure to ride the orientation wave to familiarize yourself with the campus. From locating the gnarliest study spots to mastering the perfect time to hop onto the shuttles, soak in all the knowledge orientation has to offer, and meet as many people as possible. You never know whom you will click with.

Diving into class assignments is crucial but so is catching a breather. Find your perfect “me time” spot with an ocean or mountain view.

Pepperdine’s options of extracurricular clubs and activities are exceptional. Whether you’re into debating the big stuff, drawing people or saving the planet, there’s a club for you.

My biggest advice is to try any club or organization that remotely piques your interest.

I never would have expected to be a part of a sorority, but the day before registration closed, I said, “Why not? Even if it doesn’t work out, at least I’ll make some new friends.” I couldn’t have been more correct.

Professors are your lifeguards, ready to help you ride the academic surf. Don’t hesitate to paddle over to their office hours with questions or to just chat about the subject matter. Pepperdine’s small size is a big benefit when learning complicated topics.

Balancing the rush of classes, assignments and beach vibes requires epic time management skills. Don’t underestimate the chill atmosphere on campus; there is a lot to do, and people expect things completed on time and to the best of your capability.

Malibu is more than just a place –– it’s an aesthetic. From its sunset evenings to its laid-back energy, Pepperdine’s campus is like a daily dose of Instagrammable moments. Embrace it, and let it inspire your creativity and outlook.

Just as every surfer conquers their fear of the big waves, Pepperdine’s hills and CCB steps are your challenge to tackle. Hike, bike, scooter or simply power-walk your way through the inclines. Your calf muscles will thank you, and the view from the top is totally worth it.

As the sun dips below the horizon, blend the world of academics with the art of sunset-watching. Review your notes, brainstorm ideas or plan your next project while soaking in the breathtaking view.

P.S. To increase your love of Malibu, get a sweet treat at Malibu Yogurt & Ice Cream, or as the locals call it, Buyo. My personal favorite flavor is the classic twist with tons of toppings.

With these tips, you’re ready to paddle out and catch the first waves of your Pepperdine journey. Embrace the challenge, ride the highs and remember — whether you’re surfing or studying — it’s all about finding your balance and riding with style.

With care,

Send your questions to PGM via email: peppgraphicmedia@gmail.com

___________________

Follow the Graphic on Twitter: @PeppGraphic

Contact Victoria La Ferla via email:

Victoria.laferla@pepperdine.edu or by instagram @vlf_insider

Filed Under: Advice Column, Perspectives Tagged With: academics, advice, advicecolumn, BUYO, ClubsAndOrganizations, Malibu, pepperdine graphic media, sunsets, surfing, Victoria La Ferla

Primary Sidebar

Categories

  • Featured
  • News
  • Life & Arts
  • Perspectives
  • Sports
  • Podcasts
  • G News
  • COVID-19
  • Fall 2021: Global Citizenship
  • Everybody Has One
  • Newsletters

Footer

Pepperdine Graphic Media
Copyright © 2025 · Pepperdine Graphic

Contact Us

Advertising
(310) 506-4318
peppgraphicadvertising@gmail.com

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
(310) 506-4311
peppgraphicmedia@gmail.com
Student Publications
Pepperdine University
24255 Pacific Coast Hwy
Malibu, CA 90263
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube