Summer concert series at Soka University on the lawn. There is nothing better .. An incredibly beautiful campus . Plenty of parking with a shuttle that takes you right to the lawn. Snacks and beverages for purchase offered. The entertainment is always top notch bathrooms are clean and accessible. I only wish that they had more concerts during the summer months. Summering at Soca is sensational ! read more

Soka University - Concert series at Soka - Colleges & Universities Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

I love walking through the Soka Millennial Trail during sunsets. Parking is free on campus. It's very clean and the walking paths are very clear. It's a circular perimeter so there's no way of getting lost. Just don't go off the beaten paths and stay on the paved walkway. The fountain area is very peaceful and lovely. It feels like the day's stress gets washed off walking through them. The trail is about a a mile and a half walk. Easy and great cardio workout with dogs. read more

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Beautiful area to walk around also lots of plants and some of the trees are labeled with the name and history of them, it's a very interesting campus read more

Soka University - Beautiful area just to sit and relax - Colleges & Universities Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

Beautiful campus and staff is really nice. Lovely place to walk. Summer of Soka was really fun!!

What a hidden gem of a college campus in Orange County. Soka is a beautiful campus with wonderful athletic facilities. The serene community is filled with peaceful reminders. The buildings are designed to capture the philosophy of the founder and represent the mission of this higher education institution. The community is welcomed at this private liberal arts program. read more

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South OC Super Pod Vaccination | Pfizer Enter here! - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=mjqs652m0IHYozc4NDMdHQ&userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ I've heard about Soka University since it built roots in the local area back in.... I have always wanted to visit the campus but never really had a reason to until the recent increase in COV-19 vaccinations. I've been teaching online, ZOOM art courses since January and as the nation slowly reopens, will be doing in-person teaching this summer. Personally, I was in no big rush to get vaccinated but the program director wanted me to get it out of the way as soon as possible... 'And so here I was! Note: The Othena website you go to and sign up for vaccination put you on a wait list until a date is available. Once you have a set date/time, you are advised to "arrive early." However, it does not go into detail on what "early" means. I learned that it means "NOT MORE THAN 30 MINUTES PRIOR," when the crossing guard attired, straw hat wearing, volunteer almost pooped his pants. For a moment I thought he might jump on the hood of my car! B'WHA!! (BTW - I was 45 minutes early.) I cannot say enough for all the workers, volunteers, and medical professionals for their amazing job in keeping the rows & rows of cars moving smoothly. From first entering to exiting the parking lot; having my temperature taken; ID verified; shot administered; 15 minute post-shot wait area; forty minutes tops! You are in & out, that fast. It's really quite impressive for such a huge undertaking. "Mahalo nui!" - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=5ZAEScl33jbeCnBzBB7ABg&userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ A few months ago, I went for COV-19 testing at the Costa Mesa Fairgrounds and like Soka U's Super Pod, it too was impressively ran. This is such an immense project with many moving parts where all the cogs in the wheel have to be working together in sync to make the machine go. BRAVO! BRAVO!! Like the testing site in Costa Mesa, this was all done without you ever having to leave your vehicle. It's all drive-thru, easy & amazing! I spoke to one of the site workers while in the waiting area, inquiring whether or not people getting vaccinated now will need to get this every year? The answer I received wasn't exactly very clear it was more like a "Definite maybe." Waiting area - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=Scv6V0k0Ja0LrU_y4vz6uQ&userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ Me: So, I've been hearing different stories that people may have to get vaccinated again... Is that true? Worker: Well, you may need to get a booster shot. It may end up being something like getting an annual flu shot. So, yeh... A "definite maybe." - HA! I'm not going to lie, I had my reservations about getting the vaccine especially after hearing about complications from the other pharmaceutical companies. After my first Pfizer shot, I was fine except for what felt like a charley horse in my left, upper arm; lasted two days. I somewhat expected the second shot to be no different. I was wrong. The day after, I felt worn out & tired; similar to a hangover. I tried going about my day as usual but was unable to focus and my energy was zapped. Pull my finger! - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=xFJjgnYpLnlDq4kP22aaRw&userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ Note: To help prevent your arm from being too sore afterward; move it around after receiving your shot but DO NOT MASSAGE it. Also, I was advised to drink plenty of water & stay hydrated. And just for sh*ts & giggles, have you heard these whack-@ss theories? 1. The vaccine injections are a government ruse to put nanotechnology/microchips into people so they can track their movements. (HA! They have cellphones for that! Don't these people watch "Investigation Discovery?") 2. The vaccine will kill everyone in a year. (Well, hell, none us were ever going to get out alive; truth.) 'But seriously, hope all of you are well and staying healthy. Again, thank you to all the men & women who are tirelessly working out there on the front lines to help all of us get back to normal...'Or the new "normal." It's official and I got the sticker to proves it! Photo - https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?select=Xmh_VLmNKG2JkH7xWx2jfw&userid=O6EBodP3Fgu_n67efSKnBQ In the near future, I'd really enjoy returning to the campus to learn more about the university. - Big Aloha! read more

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My husband & I visited Soka this weekend. Huge disappointment! The security guard told us to feel free to look around. We found a table to enjoy our lunch. Unfortunately, there were bees everywhere. We quickly packed up. We walked to the gym to use the restroom. When we were leaving we were met by a angry security guard. He said we are not allowed in this area. If your going to allow the public on your campus you need RESTROOMS. Make it clear when entering the campus. We will not be returning! read more

I would like to commend ever who He or She was responsible for organizing the COVID-19 vaccine shots at Soka. My wife and I have taken both shots and I must say that I can't remember ever in my life time anything working so efficiently! Every person there had a job and they handled it so well. Such a smooth system we did not spend much time there each time we were there for our shots. Can't say enough about all the volunteers! Each one gave precise instructions that made the process so easy! Thank You. James L. Curry, Sr. read more

I had no idea this university was located in Orange County of all places in the United States. It was interesting to come visit for the first time, just to explore the campus buildings and see what this school was about. The best part was the fountain area right outside of Founders Hall. It had crystal blue waters in the pool/fountain, and the view was pretty, with the dome building + performance center in the background. See photo for what I mean. There was a quaint art gallery on the 2nd floor of Founders Hall for the public or student/staff to see some nice artwork by local artists and students of Soka. Behind Founders Hall, you can see the outside of the Performing Arts Center. The glass building looks like a great piece of modern architecture. As you venture further up and into the campus, the road will take you to a higher hill area where the residence halls are located, along w/ the Alumni Center + the Library, and more. The campus seems relatively small since most things are centralized in a common area. Good thing students have access to the rest of Orange County outside of the campus, or else I could imagine how bored they may get! :) read more

Soka University - Founders Hall & outdoor fountain - Colleges & Universities Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

Beautiful Place for a wedding!! My friend got married here and I was so impressed with this campus. A perfect backdrop with plenty of parking for that special day. I was told it's not even expensive. I believe it only 1500 to host your wedding there! Amazing deal for such a beautiful place. There is a huge body of water that makes it look gorgeous for photos read more

Soka University - Colleges & Universities Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

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I'm not a student of Soka University, but I have been here many times since some of my friends are students here. This campus is very pretty. It's a smaller campus but the way it has been maintained with all their student and dorms is very impressive. If you're a visitor have your student full name and dorm room number to check in at the gate with. They take your license plate and name down for security and then you're allowed to go in. There is a jogging/hiking trail that locals in the area use because they have very nice view specially during sunset. I personally love all the picturesque places for photography. There is a Lilly pond and a very pretty fountain situated in the middle as you're driving in. The dorms are tiny but very clean, and it doesn't seem as rowdy as most dorm would be. read more

Soka University - Lilly pond - Colleges & Universities Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

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12-Mar-21 My wife and I both got our 1st vaccine at Soka today. What an incredibly efficient process. Drove up. Found out that they were doing DRIVE-THRU!! Never had to leave the car. Perfect. Timing (in the comfort and security of the car) ------- 5 minutes to get on campus. 15 to get checked-in. 5 minutes to get shots 15 minutes parked in "observation" to ensure all went well - which it did. A really big thank you to everyone involved and, especially, to Soka for hosting. It's been a very tough year but now there is definitely light at the end of the tunnel. read more

I live down the street from Soka and absolutely could not ask for a better neighbor. I spend most every Saturday morning walking on the path around campus (exactly 1 mile) and enjoying the spectacular views of Laguna Beach (top of the world) and the rest of South OC. I am very thankful they are so amenable to the community enjoying their meticulously maintained campus. Hands down my favorite (non-beach or ocean) spot in the OC. read more

Soka University - Soka. One of my favorite places - Colleges & Universities Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

This is a review of their Annual Halloween Haunted House: I attended their Halloween Haunted House earlier tonight and it was a blast. The students did an amazing job setting up a super cool maze with props and costumed actors. It took about 10 mins to get through and they charged $5 for it. Well worth the visit. I'm goingback next year for sure with more people. On a side note this campus is absolutely beautiful. I love the giant lake/fountain area near the entrance. read more

What an amazing place for architectural wonder. I spent 3 hours today touring the grounds finding each turn, each corner each step a eye opening exciting adventure. The university is gorgeous with grand style water effects and building set in a Tuscany European style motive. . The university has a small population of students that reside on campus which makes it all the more charmimg. I've promised myself that when I return for my PhD it will be here. Take a look at my pictures to see exactly what I am saying. . I also understand the University employs a large variety of top quality professors. .. read more

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I almost don't want to write this review because I like keeping it unique, but we loved this campus the first day we toured it. We had our wedding ceremony and reception here and it was amazing (October 2014). The campus is just naturally pretty and so private. Fae was our special events contact and she was such a pleasure to work with. She answered and addressed all of our questions and concerns. Note for other couples: you do need to bring in all your vendors. We wanted the freedom to do so. They do have some rules, but nothing to out there we couldn't comply with. Also, free parking! read more

It's a horrible place out of touch. Very rude librarian. And I was threatened by a kid in a golf cart who threatened to call the police when I was visiting. He said, "you're trespassing." I'd parked in a free lot (asked first) and went to the library to ask where I could post some fliers to edit papers or application essays. When I asked the lady at the desk this a horrible woman in the back of library (she wasn't even the one I was speaking too btw.) she barked at me that I couldn't so I left. It isn't even a well planned out college it is more like Irvine business complex. Save your money. Give your child an education somewhere else. Seriously my best advice. Avoid. read more

Took a family member for their COVID vaccine today. It was organized and fast but I did not feel safe! There was no actual social distancing and I never saw a table or chair wiped down between use. Not one of the people that helped us used the hand sanitizer. Two different people touched our cell phone to scan the code (yes I sanitized after each one) and no one sanitized. Then when asked about allergies we said only to latex and asked if the bandaids were latex free. The person giving the shot looked at the box for several minutes and said I don't know. There were so many people there that it was like being at an amusement park. My only disappointment was the health and safety protocols and I am not looking forward to going back for the second dose. I personally will be waiting and going somewhere else for my shots. read more

Just writing a review because I uploaded some pics and my welcome page keeps telling me to write a review and I want to get rid of it. I can't say much because I came here to work an event and didn't have much time to explore the campus. From what I did see, I can say it was pretty impressive and a really immacculate campus. It feels real secluded, like it's far from civilization. At night I swear I heard coyotes howling in the canyon below. I'll have to come back again and check the place out or maybe see a game here since they are making an effort to boost their athletic program. The Womens Soccer team was doing team pics when I was there and they have some cuties on the team! read more

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Got 1st and 2nd COVID shots here and was very pleased with how well organized everything was. Great job to all the help and a big Thank You.

+ Nice views + Clean facility + Accommodates weddings - Sort of a bland facility I came here for a wedding and while the place was very beautiful on the outside, I'm not sure it was a great spot for anything other than a university. I didn't look at the other buildings, but the main one in front of the water fountains seemed a little bland. The facility was very clean and I like that they were able to accommodate weddings. Based on the paperwork at the entrance, it seems like a pretty pricey school @ $30K/year and $11K room & board. read more

Soka University - Colleges & Universities Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

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This venue is seriously gorgeous! I recently got married here & It was beautiful. We got married by the fountain area & had the reception in the Art Gallery. The best thing about this venue is the fact that your guest don't have to drive to different areas, It's all right there. Unfortunately, this venue has a lot of unexpected cost & requires a ton of unnecessary things. In addition to the rental fee, you have to pay per hour for setup, an event monitor & security. They require you to hire your own event planner, insurance, lots of paperwork, contracts, etc. 2 days before the wedding, the event coordinator at Soka was emailing us saying we need to bring our own fire extinguisher & that the required dance floor we bought was not good enough. It seemed somewhat unorganized. Also, this venue offerers absolutely nothing, but the facility. It is completely DIY, even tables & chairs. Since they have tables, & chairs on-site, it's disappointing that they don't let you use them. They need to put up signs warning the public that there is an event going on. We had random people walking around, dogs in the fountain, etc. We were unable to have the rehearsal here because the allowed time would require everyone to take off work, Mon-Fri 10am-3pm. Also, you would have to pay for event insurance for the rehearsal, which is ridiculous. We had to have family & the groomsmen set everything up the day of the wedding, which was no fun. There is TONS that this venue can improve on. If I knew what we were getting ourselves into, we would have chose another venue. Overall, the venue turned out gorgeous because of all the HARD WORK. read more

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This is a gorgeous university located in the middle of Aliso Viejo. I didn't know this was here a few years ago but stepping foot on campus was eye-opening. I first visited a few years ago during their International fair. They have this gorgeous man-made pond in front of Founder's Hall and it's just breathtaking. I can see why they would have their graduation ceremonies here outside. The university was established in 2001 as a 4-year liberal arts institution with a graduate program. The university bought about 100 acres in Aliso Viejo back in 1995 and spent $225 million on the first 18 buildings. Again, I visited this year for one of the OC wine and dine events and it was just as breathtaking stepping foot on campus. Do yourself a favor and check this place out when you're in the area. read more

Today my wife and I went to get out COVID vaccine. We have heard all the horror stories about hours wasted standing in line for your shot. My wife's appointment was 3:15'and mine 3:45. When we pulled into the driveway we were greeted and vetted in terms of why we were there and that we were on the schedule. From there we proceeded to parking which was easy to reach. Took the elevator down to move along to screening and confirmation for our appointment and verification we were illness free. Fast, easy and friendly people throughout. We were directed to a table where again we were confirmed. I was then asked to sit, roll up my sleeve. I did and the next thing I knew I was asked to get up so my wife could sit and get her shot. I swear I didn't feel a thing. Oh, we were gone by 3:25. Could not have been nicer people or a better organized program. If you are planning on getting the shot try and have it at Soka University. read more

I received my COVID vaccine here today. Appointment time was 2:30-I was vaccinated and in the waiting area by 2:28. So efficient and what a beautiful campus! I wonder if they have "Senior University". read more

WOWWWW, this is a gorgeous campus! Seriously the most beautiful and well-maintained college campus I've ever seen. Highlights of the campus were the: 1) Abundance of awesome spots to chill with your laptop. There are many shady trees, picturesque gazebos, etc, equipped with power outlets so you can get your study on al fresco. 2) The lotus ponds. So cute. Also attended the International Festival here this year and got a little taste of the campus flava--good food and performances. In general this campus just has such a friendly, relaxed, and yet study-friendly feel to it. read more

THIS IS A REVIEW OF THE LIBRARY Since I'm working on my masters thesis, I need a quiet place to learn about neural networks. This has got to be one of the best libraries I've ever been two. There are chairs everywhere. Chairs also have their own reading lamps. There are couches, study rooms and magazines on all the coffee tables. Every desk lamp has a ethernet cable so that you can connect to the internet. I am quite surprised there isn't wi-fi available. There were not access points at all from where I was studying. I do not have borrowing privledges, so I do not know how good the library is in terms of its collection. The library is usually pretty empty, unlike the local public libraries. If you need a quiet place to read, this is the place to go. read more

Soka University is a private, non-profit, four-year liberal arts college and graduate school located on 103-acres in south Orange County, California in the City of Aliso Viejo. By far one of the most visually beautiful campus I have seen. Simply stunning! read more

Soka University - Founders Hall, beautiful and majestic. - Colleges & Universities Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

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I see that there are some reviews about empty library - as an alumni who did her undergrad there, just want to point out that SUA offers so many quiet, beautiful places to study besides the library. It's such a rare, great study environment for students both in/outside the classroom. Well, I could probably write a novel about my experience there but to sum it up, my education there changed my entire perspective on life and the world around me. It truly offers a unique liberal arts education. I highly recommend anyone interested in attending to check it out! (www.soka.edu) read more

I made my appointment to get COVID vaccine thru Othena at soka university. And after the first dose March 23, I notice a redness on my skin and I made an appointment to see my doctor the next day. She checked me and said whatever I was having seem not be related to the vaccine. Since my vitals looked normal and was never under any stress. Temperature, blood pressure, oxygen levels were normal. And told me she approved for me to get the second dose. So the day of my second dose on April the 13, at Soka university, they asked me about reaction or side effects and told them about my skin redness, send me to talk to a Doctor on site. After I talked to her she also approved me to get the vaccine. That instead of waiting 15 minutes to do 30 minutes. And when I was about to get it, the chief of nurses intervine and said he overheard my conversation with the doctor and didn't feel comfortable giving me the vaccine, that he needed to call his boss to get approval, his boss never answered, they send me home without getting the vaccine. And since I was already due to get it, I didn't wait and I went the next day to try to talk to someone else and finally get it. I talked to this other doctor on site and she said she needed to talk to the pharmacist. So this other guy came and said that I might of had a mild reaction and that they didn't have the medical staff or equipment to help me in case of anything happened to me in case that with the second dose I had a more intense reaction. And because of liability and afraid of loosing their license. So, I went to my primary care doctor. And they tried to help me to get it with them but they only have Moderna. So, time is running, and I don't know what to do. And I shouldn't been denied after something that my doctor ruled out not been and allergic reaction and been approved by 2 doctors. And even though Othena at Soka University didn't do the second dose, I'm making them responsible in case of anything happened to me for not getting my second dose on time. They mention not having the medical stuff or the equipment necessary to help me. What would've happened if I really had on allergic reaction on site?! Sent from my iPhone read more

I am not a student at Soka University but I live nearby and love to visit the campus. It is absolutely beautiful and the facilities are great. They have a really nice track, that is available for anybody's use, so long as you aren't impeding track or cross country practice. The library is also available for public use and it is GREAT. It has multiple stories and always nice and quiet. It's a great place to study or just get some reading done. I just loveee Soka. read more

I am a second-year student here at Soka University of America, and I have to say this school is amazing. The campus could not be more beautiful, and students here are so friendly to each other. Besides, the small class ratio size, study aboard program, generous financial aid are not something you can receive at every college in the U.S today read more

Building and scenery is beautiful. Came here for my Kung fu tournament. I can't believe these lucky kids go to school here. Over looking the mountains and beautiful homes. Even the gym is nice!!! read more

I had my first COVID vaccination at Soka University this morning. What a smooth, efficient, well organized process. I had a 9:45AM appointment, pulled up into the line at 9:15AM, left the building, after the 15 minute mandatory waiting period, at 10:10. 55 minutes total! Congratulation Soka University and Othena. Everyone was so efficient and friendly. Way to go! read more

I received my 1st & 2nd covic19 vaccine shot. It was very smooth process. In & out in 30 minutes. Whoever was in charge plus the staff & volunteers were just great. read more

I don't go to this school, but the campus is breath taking. My highschool rented out Founders Hall for winter formal. The buildings were amazing and the lake was beautiful. read more

I just completed my second year at SUA, and I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in studying liberal arts! One of the biggest advantages of SUA is the guaranteed study abroad semester that every student does in their third year. The faculty and staff are super helpful, and because of the great student-faculty ratio and the small class sizes, the quality of the education that SUA provides you with is extremely high. The close contact that students get with their professors at SUA creates a unique class experience and opens many doors for the students. Furthermore, SUA has a beautiful campus, with many beaches in close proximity. read more

I came here for the International Festival and this campus is absolutely breathtaking and gorgeous. I'd love to come here at nighttime to see it lit up. read more

Love the SOKA campus! Beautiful and peaceful place for a walk!!! Bring your bike and see the entire campus. Sit in the gazebo or on one of the benches at the lake and read a book. Super relaxing and a wonderful gem! read more

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I'm currently a sophomore of Soka, and this campus is an extremely beautiful place to live. I can meet my friends whenever I want to because all SUA students live on-campus. I study in a calm library or in my decorated room. When I get tired of studying I usually take a walk with my friends around the beautiful campus or just go to my friend's room to talk. One of the SUA's great points is that many of the SUA facilities are open to public. People can take dogs for a walk and jog around campus, go to the library and borrow books and DVDs, or even hold a wedding reception here. I think the food offered at SUA is better than many other colleges and the Soka Bistro is also open to the community for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For lunch it's all you can eat including dessert and beverages for just $9.95. read more