Collegium Built for Biola Commuters
Undergraduate commuters represent nearly one third of the undergraduate population, and to assist these students, Biola created the Department of Commuter Life. This department offers services and programs with the goal of building community among the commuters.
The first service offered is the Collegium—Latin for “Gathering Place”— Program, which costs $75 to become a member. This 1,300 square foot home-like environment includes a fully equipped kitchen, eating area, computer area with ports and wireless access, a sitting area and a living room with a fireplace.
According to John Back, Dean of Student Affairs, the Collegium allows members to “experience community on a more engaging level as they hang out together between classes, attend Faculty Fireside Chats, participate in special meals together, and attend cultural and social events.”