One of the biggest advantages for those living in Rowland Heights is the educational environment.

While a good school district is important, having a high-quality college nearby is also a significant benefit. The college you can reach in just 10 to 15 minutes by car is Cal Poly Pomona (California State Polytechnic University, Pomona). Although it is part of the California State University (CSU) system, it is highly regarded in the U.S. for its hands-on education.

When talking about Cal Poly Pomona, the phrase "Learn by Doing" often comes up. This means that students learn not just from books but through creating, designing, and experimenting. As a result, graduates are frequently praised for their adaptability in the workplace. Particularly in engineering fields, the university is favored by California companies, and it is known for its excellent employment rates after graduation.

There are also various strong majors. In addition to engineering fields like mechanical, electrical, civil, and computer engineering, the architecture program consistently receives high marks in the U.S. The business school operates high-quality programs accredited by AACSB, and fields like accounting and supply chain management are quite popular. The College of Agriculture has a unique educational environment with an actual farm and ranch on campus where students can gain hands-on experience.

One of the biggest concerns for Korean parents is tuition. Even a good college can be a burden if the costs are too high. Fortunately, Cal Poly Pomona is part of the CSU system, making it more affordable than the UC system. For the 2026-2027 academic year, the annual tuition and fees for California residents are around $7,600. Additional costs for textbooks and personal expenses will apply.

Including dormitory and meal costs, the total annual expenses for living on campus are typically expected to be around $30,000.

On the other hand, commuting from Rowland Heights can significantly reduce the burden of dormitory and meal costs.

For commuting students, total annual expenses can vary based on lifestyle, but many manage to keep it around $15,000 to $20,000. The ability for children to live at home while attending college is a considerable financial advantage for Korean families.

Admission is not as easy as one might think. As one of the more popular schools in the CSU system, competitive majors like engineering, computer science, and architecture have fierce competition. Recently, submitting SAT and ACT scores is not mandatory, but high school GPA, coursework, and preparation for the major are evaluated comprehensively. It is particularly beneficial to prepare consistently in math and science for majors where these subjects are crucial.

The campus environment is also quite attractive. With ample green space, hills, and even a real farm, it offers a relaxed atmosphere that is hard to believe for a university near LA. The Korean Student Association (KSA) is actively run, helping new students make friends and adapt to campus life. Various cultural and networking events are also held frequently.

Ultimately, living in Rowland Heights while attending Cal Poly Pomona can be seen as a choice that balances educational quality and affordability. It allows students to receive hands-on education without the high costs of private universities, while also reducing tuition burdens by commuting from home.

For Korean families who prioritize education for their children, the combination of Rowland Heights' location and Cal Poly Pomona's offerings can be a very attractive advantage.