Senior Madison Johnson talks to the audience in Smothers Theatre at the 2026 Pepperdine Oncology Symposium on Feb. 25. Johnson said organizing the conference required significant time and effort but ultimately proved worthwhile. Photo courtesy of Madison Johnson When Madison Johnson arrived on campus as a first-year student, she said she already knew she wanted to study to … [Read more...] about The Student Behind the Symposium: Aspiring Oncologist Sparks Cancer Conference
Annslee Mitchell
‘Hollywood’ in Malibu: RSFF17 Celebrates Student Films and Cinematic Dreams
In Hollywood, the red carpet is reserved for A-list celebrities and social media influencers — in Malibu, it belongs to Pepperdine students with stories to tell. Presented by the Student Programming Board (the Board), Pepperdine’s 17th annual ReelStories Film Festival brought together student directors, writers and actors to showcase their work under this year’s theme, “A … [Read more...] about ‘Hollywood’ in Malibu: RSFF17 Celebrates Student Films and Cinematic Dreams
‘Rich in Giving’: International Studies Student Leads with Compassion
Leadership is often associated with authority and visibility, but senior Tsion Gerbaba said she takes a different approach. She leads compassionately, valuing diligence over control and impact over recognition. Gerbaba’s path from Ethiopia to Pepperdine has developed her understanding of leadership and service, shaping her aspiration to work for the United Nations. “I want to … [Read more...] about ‘Rich in Giving’: International Studies Student Leads with Compassion
Transparency or Bias? Students Rely on Rate My Professors When Choosing Classes
Professor Michael Folkerts (center) poses with grad students Avery Encalade (left), Kelsey Carlton (second from left) and Sabrina Krebs (right) on April 13. Folkerts said students should ask upperclassmen for class advice. Photo courtesy of Michael Folkerts Before attending the first day of class, students said they had already formed judgments on their new professors through … [Read more...] about Transparency or Bias? Students Rely on Rate My Professors When Choosing Classes
Relieved or Regret? Pepperdine Women Opt Out of Greek Life
First-year Urielle Rubayita (left) poses with friends at the Brock House welcome event Aug. 15. She said there are many ways to develop friendships on campus. Photo courtesy of Urielle Rubayita As a new semester begins at Pepperdine, some students participate in Continuous Open Bidding (COB), an informal recruitment process that takes place in the spring. While COB offers a … [Read more...] about Relieved or Regret? Pepperdine Women Opt Out of Greek Life