When discussing education for children in Palm Springs, the first school that comes to mind among the UC system is UC Riverside (UCR).

Some may ask, "Isn't UC too far away?" but in fact, it is the closest UC campus to Palm Springs.

It's about an hour's drive west on I-10. To the east, there are universities as far as 270 miles away in Phoenix, Arizona.

UC Riverside is one of the 10 campuses in the University of California (UC) system. With over 26,000 students, it is a comprehensive research university with significant size and well-equipped research facilities. While it may not be as well-known as UCLA or UC Berkeley, it is a respected public university in the United States.

What I feel in the U.S. is that it's more important to choose a school that fits you rather than just looking at the name. UC Riverside is particularly known for its strengths in life sciences, engineering, business, and education. Many pre-med students aiming for medical school also attend, and there are relatively abundant research opportunities.

Another positive aspect is that there are a good number of Korean students. The campus has an active Korean Student Association and Korean student groups, making it easier for students starting their college life in the U.S. to adapt. There are also cultural events and celebrations that provide opportunities to share Korean culture.

Not many students commute daily from Palm Springs to UC Riverside. The round trip takes over two hours, so most either live in dorms or find apartments near the school. While it may be a bit disappointing for parents, the distance is manageable for weekend visits, making it less of a psychological burden compared to other regional universities.

Local students often choose to study for two years at College of the Desert (COD) before transferring to UC Riverside. This helps save on tuition, and the transfer program is well-established, making it a practical option. For high school students, taking AP courses in the PSUSD district and maintaining a steady GPA is the basic preparation for attending UC.

Tuition is relatively less burdensome compared to other UC campuses. For California residents, tuition is similar to other UCs, but the overall cost, including living expenses, can vary slightly by region. Above all, the opportunity to earn a UC degree makes it a realistic choice for many students.

Ultimately, while Palm Springs may not be a college town, having UC Riverside nearby is a significant advantage. If a child dreams of attending a UC, the burden of sending them far away is lessened, and parents can easily drive there whenever they want. Considering the educational environment, Palm Springs can be a surprisingly good option for families with children, not just retirees.