UCLA Campus Deserted Amid Palisades Fire Evacuation
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), with 46,000 students, finds itself in the shadow of the Palisades fire evacuation zones. The campus is eerily quiet as students pack up and flee the area due to poor air quality and the university’s decision to shift classes online.
Chancellor’s Encouraging Words
Chancellor Julio Frenk, newly appointed this month, has been a beacon of hope for the UCLA community during this trying time. Through social media platforms like Instagram, Frenk has been posting video statements, urging students to remain resilient. Despite the challenging circumstances, Frenk assures the community that UCLA is closely monitoring the situation and has contingency plans in place for any scenario that may unfold.
Student Exodus
The usually bustling UCLA campus now resembles a ghost town, with most students vacating the premises. The dorms, once filled with the hustle and bustle of student life, now stand silent as students hurriedly leave, fearing for their safety. Elliott Cho, a senior at UCLA, expressed concerns about the air quality, prompting his decision to move out of his dormitory.
Community Support Amidst Adversity
As students make their way out of UCLA, stories of resilience and camaraderie emerge. Titi Olotu, a biology major, stands out as one of the last to officially leave campus. Her viral TikTok videos criticizing the university’s response to the fire highlight the frustrations and challenges faced by students during this crisis. Despite the chaos, students like Tommy Contreras, a resident assistant, and Evan and Matthew Li, roommates living off-campus, choose to stay behind, offering support and assistance to those in need.
In times of uncertainty and adversity, the UCLA community comes together, showcasing strength, compassion, and unity. As students navigate the challenges posed by the Palisades fire, the spirit of resilience shines bright, reaffirming the bond that ties the UCLA family together.
