<p>What is it like for non-christian students at Pepperdine? Are there many? Would a nonreligious Jewish girl from the suburban northeast have trouble fitting in?</p>
<p>To be honest, I didn't get the impression there was a significant amount of non-christians. The church is very active on campus, religious life is strong, and the student body is generally conservative. I have a feeling there arn't many "nonreligious jewish" students there. If you're open-minded and have a desire to be in an enviroment that you are not used to then you shouldn't have too much trouble fitting in. You might find the whole Christian aspect to be a little overwhelming at first. Also remeber that Pepperdine finds religious affiliation/commitment important</p>
<p>I don't think you'd have any trouble fitting in. I have no idea what about the percentage is, but there is a pretty large amount of non-religious students. The religious life is definitely strong on campus for those who seek it, but it's not pushed upon those who aren't interested.</p>
<p>The application was pretty well laced with questions about faith, church involvement, etc. I would think it would be difficult to get in to P is one was honest and also practicing a non-Christian faith, or none at all, if these questions are taken into account for admission.</p>
<p>My D chose not to apply because of these questions. She's looking for a more diverse population in college. If the application doesn't really reflect typical students at P, it would be of interest to me to know that. She attends a nondenominational Christian church, but is not a leader there, or an evangalist!</p>
<p>Essay prompt from application:</p>
<p>"Seaver College, a Christian institution dedicated to the highest standards of academic excellence, presents its students with a unique atmosphere in which students are encouraged to explore faith as well as scholarship. This is reflected in Pepperdine's affirmation statement, which states, "Truth has nothing to fear from investigation." Please respond to this statement in terms of your own spiritual commitment, describing the ways in which you might explore faith and investigate truth during your time at Pepperdine."</p>
<p>Thanks.</p>
<p>Wow! I'm was hoping my DD would check out Pepperdine. That prompt might be her favorite so far.</p>
<p>I hope I didn't come across as critical of the app question. My intent was to demonstrate what P seems to be looking for in prospective students. Questions like the one I printed should really target a population of like-minded students.</p>
<p>However, if P is trying to attract a range of faiths, this question works against that goal. </p>
<p>I assume P seeks Christians who are very comfortable talking about and living their faith.</p>
<p>Sorry about poorly worded earlier post.</p>
<p>I certainly didn't take it as critical. I'm looking for a diverse population for my daughter, but also a place she'll feel comfortable ( and maybe get some merit aid!)If it was me, I wouldn't be applying, but that sounds SO much like my DD, I think she'd be intrigued even if she wasn't before.</p>