Hollyhock House at Barnsdall Art Park
Perched atop Olive Hill, the Hollyhock House stands as one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most significant West Coast works and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the early 1920s for oil heiress Aline Barnsdall, the home represents Wright’s experimentation with blending architecture and environment, what he called “organic architecture.”

�þ��� explored the house’s Mayan Revival influences, geometric motifs and the iconic hollyhock flower design woven throughout the structure. The site offered a powerful introduction to how Los Angeles became a testing ground for architectural innovation, especially during a time when the city was rapidly expanding and redefining itself culturally.

Downtown Los Angeles: Layers of History and Movement
Traveling via the Los Angeles Metro, students experienced the city as Angelenos do, through its evolving public transit system, before diving into the heart of downtown.

Union Station – Opened in 1939, Union Station is often called the “Last of the Great Railway Stations.” Its architecture blends Spanish Colonial Revival, Mission Revival, and Art Deco styles, reflecting Los Angeles’s layered cultural identity. Inside, students observed the grandeur of its waiting rooms, tiled floors, and wooden beam ceilings, symbols of a bygone era when rail travel defined urban movement.

Angels Flight – Just a short walk away, Angels Flight, the world’s shortest railway, offered insight into the city’s early 20th-century infrastructure. Originally built in 1901, the funicular once transported residents up Bunker Hill, a neighborhood that has since undergone dramatic redevelopment. Its preservation speaks to ongoing efforts to maintain pieces of Los Angeles’ historic fabric amid modernization.

Los Angeles City Hall & Chinatown
At City Hall, students discussed civic architecture and governance, noting the building’s Art Deco style and symbolic prominence in the LA skyline. Nearby Chinatown provided a contrasting cultural lens, highlighting immigrant histories, urban displacement and the evolution of ethnic enclaves in Los Angeles.

Olvera Street
Often referred to as the birthplace of Los Angeles, Olvera Street immerses visitors in Mexican-American heritage. �þ��� explored its marketplace, murals and historic buildings while discussing the complexities of cultural preservation versus commercialization. The site reflects both celebration and simplification of heritage, an important conversation in art and public history.

Angelus Temple & Echo Park
In Echo Park, students visited Angelus Temple, a striking example of early 20th-century religious architecture and a cornerstone of the Foursquare Church movement founded by evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson. Built in 1923, the temple reflects a blend of revivalist architecture and emerging media-savvy religious practices, as McPherson was one of the first to use radio to reach a national audience.

The surrounding Echo Park neighborhood added another layer to the visit, offering insight into how communities evolve over time. Once a streetcar suburb, Echo Park has transformed into a culturally vibrant area shaped by waves of immigration, artistic communities, and, more recently, gentrification. Together, the site and neighborhood sparked discussion on the intersection of faith, media and urban change.

The Gamble House
In Pasadena, students visited the Gamble House, a masterpiece of the American Arts and Crafts movement designed by architects Charles Sumner Greene and Henry Mather Greene in 1908. Commissioned by the Procter & Gamble family, the home emphasizes craftsmanship, natural materials, and harmony with its surroundings.

�þ��� examined intricate woodwork, custom furnishings, and the intentional use of light and space—hallmarks of the Arts and Crafts philosophy, which emerged as a reaction against industrialization. The visit provided a striking contrast to Wright’s modernism, allowing students to compare different architectural responses to similar cultural shifts.

Looking ahead: Final excursions
As the semester continues, students will expand their exploration of the city’s artistic and architectural landscape with one final site visit.
The course will conclude with a visit to the Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. Celebrated for its sweeping stainless-steel forms and innovative acoustics, the building stands as a defining example of contemporary architecture in Los Angeles. Here, students will consider how modern design continues to push artistic and structural boundaries while shaping the city’s global cultural identity.

These excursions bring course themes to life, allowing students to critically engage with Los Angeles as a living museum. From early 20th-century architectural movements to the layered cultural histories embedded in downtown neighborhoods and beyond, each site offers a unique perspective on how art and environment shape one another.

By navigating the city firsthand, students not only deepen their understanding of art history but also develop a stronger connection to LA itself—its stories, its communities and its ever-evolving identity.

The immersive Study USA Los Angeles semester and summer experiences offer students opportunities for alumni engagement, community service, unique academic classes with industry professionals and site-based experiential learning. .

Throughout the evening, students worked efficiently to package and distribute meals, demonstrating both attentiveness and care in every task, from ensuring each scoop of food was evenly portioned to selecting the best-quality pastries for distribution. The dinner service featured chickpea curry over rice as a vegan option and Thai breaded chicken for those preferring a meat-based meal. Chocolate milk, a treat among guests, was offered as a special beverage. �þ��� embraced a variety of roles with enthusiasm and flexibility, supporting one another and staff while creating a welcoming environment for guests.

Volunteer efforts extended beyond food preparation. �þ��� displayed sensitivity and responsiveness in their interactions—fetching extra napkins when needed, offering hand sanitizer and respectfully engaging with those served. Notably, student Lexi Riolo ’26 took a lead role in managing sign-in procedures and providing sanitation supplies, helping the process run smoothly as the line grew.

The evening began with a customary safety debriefing led by HoFoCo’s longtime security coordinator, Crisco, whose signature mix of humor and sleight of hand set a positive tone for the evening. In addition to the standard orientation, students received a sobering reminder from a staff member named Julio regarding the potential presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, a growing concern amid increasing reports of enforcement actions near shelters and service centers. Fortunately, the evening proceeded without incident, and volunteers were able to focus fully on ensuring every guest was served with dignity.

That evening, the team served 176 new guests and many returning community members, ultimately distributing all 260 meals with no leftovers. For students participating in the �þ��� LA program, a semester-long immersive experience that blends academic coursework, internships, and city engagement, opportunities like this highlight the importance of community involvement.

Student Sarah Carss ’26 expressed enthusiasm about the experience, describing HoFoCo as “THE spot to be,” and asking how she could return independently to continue volunteering. This reaction reflects a key goal of scheduling community service early in the semester to spark students’ interest in sustained civic engagement throughout their time in Los Angeles. By participating in meaningful service experiences early on, students are encouraged to see themselves not as visitors, but as active contributors to the community during their semester in the city.

Amid the current climate of heightened immigration enforcement and social instability, acts of compassion take on heightened significance. The Hollywood Food Coalition service experience provided students with a deeper understanding of the communities they live among, and the power of small gestures to create a meaningful impact. More than a volunteer opportunity, it was a call to recognize one’s role as an active and empathetic member of a broader community.

Since 2008, �þ��� students have participated in the Los Angeles program through Study USA and National �þ��� Programs. Applications for the spring 2026 term are now available, offering students another opportunity to engage with the industry and communities of Los Angeles in impactful ways.

“It was great to be a part of two different opportunities to help the Los Angeles community after the devastation of the wildfires, and I look forward to helping as much as I can while I’m here,” said student Reilly Galloway ’25.

�þ��� Los Angeles launched a commitment to community service last year, which has since served to both immerse students into the community and culture of LA, as well as giving back to those in need. This semester’s efforts have focused on services for people impacted by the recent wildfires and those challenged by homelessness and food depravity.

More than a meal

�þ��� volunteered at the Hollywood Food Coalition to serve up dinner and conversation with residents of the community. Upon arrival, students were welcomed by the warm, welcoming faces of the Hollywood Food Coalition team and a mix of volunteers. The majority of the volunteers were seasoned regulars, so they immediately embraced their roles as mentors.This generosity of spirit set the tone for the evening. �þ��� quickly and efficiently set up an assembly line system preparing packaged meals.

The Hollywood Food Coalition offers those in need more than a meal. There are also donated clothing and other items available. As the line of people in need began to form, students enthusiastically went to work.

Macy Mills, the program assistant for �þ��� Los Angeles, was stationed with two male students at the clothing distribution area.

“We only had women’s clothing available, which required us to get a little creative in making the items appealing,” said Mills. “It became clear that the individuals we were serving needed more than just a meal—many looked forward to connection. I had the pleasure of engaging in conversations with those who came through the clothing station. One woman, delighted by the compliment I gave her on her nails, shared the sparkly marker she used to create the design.”

By the end of the night, volunteers felt a deep sense of fulfillment.

“There was a gentleman who, after trying on some clothing, expressed interest in visiting colleges in North Carolina one day and asked for tips,” said Mills. “One of the most moving moments of the night was hearing a gentleman announce that he had finally secured an apartment for his puppy and him, as a result, he announced they would see less of them at the food service.”

It was a humbling experience for them that reinforced the importance of community and empathy in the face of adversity. This experience was a powerful reminder of the difference that small acts of kindness can make.

“A new perspective emerged for many of us: the people we were helping were not to be feared,” Mills said. “Despite the visible signs of distress in some of the individuals, the reality was that none of them showed signs of aggression. They were simply people in need, just like the rest of us, seeking help in the best way they knew how.”

More than just an industry

�þ��� Los Angeles students also had the opportunity of volunteering at the MultiCon Benefit event, held at the Elon in LA home base The Preserve. It was an extraordinary gathering held to raise funds for United Way LA, in support of the recovery of Los Angeles and its residents in the wake of the devastating wildfires.

The event, organized in just 30 days by Hollywood executive Michael Tessler, proved to be an exceptional feat of coordination, featuring a star-studded lineup of celebrities in panel discussions and other activities with attendees. It served as a testament to the power of community and collaboration.

“Los Angeles is the greatest city in the world and our resilience knows no bounds,” said Tessler. “As we recover and rebuild, we will do so through the power of community, imagination and storytelling.”

Joining Tessler’s Multihouse Productions in the execution of the event was the Bond Companies, owners of The Preserve property. The joint venture raised funds from ticket sales, celebrity signings, photo opportunities and a silent auction. First responders and those displaced by the wildfires were offered complimentary tickets, autographs and photos, an important gesture that underscored the event’s commitment to community healing.

“Everyone knows someone whose life was turned upside down from the wildfires. We have planned this event to not only raise funds to help those in need, but to also provide an opportunity for people to start the healing process,” said Larry Bond, chairman of Bond Companies.

The �þ��� Los Angeles students volunteered in a variety of roles, from assisting with the silent auction and autographs to helping usher at panel discussions, all while engaging with guests and helping to ensure a smooth operation. The opportunity to interact with celebrities and industry professionals was an added highlight for all of them.

“The pillars of giving are time, talent and treasure, and watching people come together at MultiCon to give all three to help everyone hurt by the fires was awesome,” said student Adam Alkins ’25. “I now have a lot more respect for the actors, filmmakers, and content creators that participated.”

The panels were a major draw for attendees, with some of the biggest names in the comic book world, television and voice acting participating in insightful discussions. The students eagerly took photos and videos with their favorite stars, gaining valuable insights from the creators behind The Walking Dead, Deadpool, and Star Wars. The interaction between the students and the celebrity talent showcased the power of storytelling and how it unites people across different communities.

�þ��� left the event with both a sense of fulfillment from their volunteerism and with an overwhelming appreciation for the scale and success of the MultiCon benefit. It was an inspiring reminder of the ways in which people from all walks of life can come together to support a shared cause, especially when that cause is as urgent as helping a community rebuild after a disaster.

“We’re more than just an industry,” Tessler said. “We’re a community of working-class dreamers and doers who care for one another and will roll up their sleeves when our neighbors need help.”

�þ��� Los Angeles students are proud to now to be a members of that community.

The event was designed to give them invaluable, face-to-face interactions with high-profile LA-based alumni who have established their prolific, professional careers in the city. Held at the Elon Los Angeles home base, The Preserve in Hollywood, the event featured six distinguished alumni, all of whom participated in the �þ��� Los Angeles program as students.

The alumni panel included: Kendra Chideya, a creative professional with a background in film production and client services; Eric Hernandez, an Emmy-nominated director and producer at Infinitus Pictures; Matt Holt, a literary manager’s assistant at Ensemble Entertainment; Grayson Lichtenthaler, an emerging actor and Groundlings trainee; Oliver Smith, a page at Paramount Pictures; and Jordan Young, a filmmaker and writer.

�þ��� rotated through six conversation stations, where they engaged in 15-minute, one-on-one conversations with alumni. This process enabled each student to maximize their learning, receiving personalized advice on everything from job search strategies to navigating the challenges of relocating to Los Angeles after graduation. Alumni provided unique insights into their personal journeys, including how the �þ��� Los Angeles program has impacted their careers. They heard stories of how their transitions to LA were shaped by their time at Elon, offering invaluable lessons on how to land full-time roles in the competitive entertainment industry. One theme that emerged throughout the night is the strong community fostered by Elon alumni in Los Angeles.

“The Elon network in L.A. is like a family: we’re all invested in each other’s success,” said Young.

For nearly 17 years, Elon University has offered specialized, career-focused and immersive academic programming and internship opportunities for students in domestic National �þ��� locations. Enrollment for the �þ��� Los Angeles summer 2025 program is now open. Visit the Los Angeles National �þ��� site for information.

�þ��� dove into their tasks of making sandwiches, packaging sweet treats and assembling lunch bags. Their volunteer efforts resulted in distributing an impressive 2,100 lunch bags on Sunday afternoon.

The day of service provided a valuable opportunity for students to see the importance of community involvement and how small acts of service can make a substantial impact. As members of the �þ��� Los Angeles program, the students are encouraged to see themselves not just as visitors but as active participants in the community’s efforts to support those in need.

“Picturing the smiling faces on those who we helped made my day a lot brighter and made me feel more fulfilled in my time here in Los Angeles,” said Braxton Mayhew ’26.

The students created an efficient assembly line, becoming a well-oiled machine by the end of their shift. Beyond meal preparation, the students assisted with distributing the packed meals to different foundations. This involved helping with pre-arranged meal pick-ups every 15 to 30 minutes.

“Being able to give back to a community across the country from where I live is an experience I’ll never forget.” said student Seamus Lappin’ 26

“It was a wonderful opportunity to engage with the �þ��� Los Angeles program while also supporting my new local community in Hollywood,” said alumna Michaela Zussmann ’23, who volunteered with the students. “I look forward to finding more impactful ways to contribute, not only within the local community but also to the �þ��� Los Angeles program.”

Zusmann’s continued involvement in local service highlights the importance of remaining engaged with the community, even after graduation.

The Hollywood Food Coalition has been serving the Los Angeles community for over 30 years with a mission to reduce food insecurity. HFC provides daily meals to individuals experiencing homelessness, low-income families and other vulnerable populations. In addition to meal services, the coalition offers case management, hygiene kits and connections to essential resources to help individuals rebuild their lives.

For more than 16 years, Elon University has offered specialized, career-focused and immersive academic programming and internship opportunities for students in domestic National �þ��� locations. Enrollment for the �þ��� Los Angeles summer 2025 program is now open. Visit the Los Angeles National �þ��� site for information.

Brad Lemack, director of �þ��� Los Angeles, hosted fall semester students, alumni, Los Angeles Bridges program participants, staff and faculty for the debate watch and a post-debate discussion about how the two candidates, Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and Republican nominee Donald Trump, scored on their branding, their performance and the impact of their presentation on the ABC News event.

For many students, it was their first time viewing a presidential debate; some shared that they had limited political knowledge or prior interest, making this event a timely opportunity to analyze the debate from business, communication and public relations perspectives.

�þ��� made several insightful observations after the viewing, commenting on various elements, such as wardrobe, set design, the role of the moderators, debate format and the impact of muted microphones. Chris Holt ’25 observed that Trump wore a traditional red, white and blue pin, while Harris opted for a gold flag pin, leading to a discussion about how subtle choices contribute to a candidate’s branding. Edgar Ramirez Luna ’25 noted how Trump frequently used his time to respond to Harris, while Doug Baker ’25 remarked on Harris’s quick, precise and targeted communication, which he attributed to her focused preparation.

Entertainment PR professor Mitch Messinger shared his experience as a White House intern during the George W. Bush administration, which provided a valuable insight into the political campaign process.

“Debates seldom change voters’ minds, as most tend to focus on what aligns with their preexisting views,” said Messinger, providing an important perspective for attendees to consider in the conversation about their assessment of the candidate’s performances.

The goal of this �þ��� Los Angeles gathering was to create awareness among students that their voices, and, more importantly, their votes, matter. For many in attendance, they will be casting their first vote in a presidential election in November. Doug Baker ’25 had an evening more than well-spent: “After watching the debate, I feel more encouraged to make sure that I vote,” said Baker.

For more than 16 years, Elon University has offered specialized, career-focused and immersive academic programming and internship opportunities for students in domestic National �þ��� locations. The endeavor began with �þ��� Los Angeles, under the umbrella of Study USA and the Isabella Cannon Global Education Center, in 2008. Enrollment for the �þ��� Los Angeles spring and summer 2025 programs is now underway. Visit the Los Angeles National �þ��� site for information.

�þ��� is hosting many events for Election 2024 aiming to promote civic discourse and engagement in the democratic process on campus. More information on upcoming events can be found here.