UC San Diego’s Sixth College observed 20 Years with a Festival on the Green

It was Friday night and the Sixth College “Green” was alight with a shimmering Ferris wheel, the aroma of buttery popcorn, echoes of an electric guitar and colorful stuffed toys waiting to be won. The vibrant carnival marked a special milestone–the 20th anniversary of UC San Diego’s Sixth College. The “Festival on the Green” was one of several events held in honor of the occasion throughout the fall quarter.

Founded in 2002, Sixth College is known for its focus on culture, art and technology. “What makes Sixth College special is that it is a tight knit community of innovative, adventurous and caring students, staff and faculty,” said Provost Lakshmi Chilukuri.

The college recently moved into their new home at North Torrey Pines Living Learning Neighborhood, which combines residential spaces, academic departments, classrooms, restaurants and recreation areas all into one neighborhood. Fifth-year student Sina Mokhtarian experienced both the former neighborhood, known as “Camp Snoopy,” and the new space, which he says has only served to enhance residential life.

“My favorite thing is the community; I was scared that during the transfer over here during COVID, that we would lose that sense of community–but if anything it strengthened it,” said Mokhtarian. “Our numbers at events have increased tenfold. We’re getting folks from all over campus, not just Sixth College students.”

His words rang true just by taking a look around during the festival. The wristband line for Sixth College students and those from other colleges were equally long. Students were drawn for the opportunity to jump on a twirling ride, taste the sliders provided by the Triton Eats food truck, get into a pretzel-like shape at Recreation’s aerial silks station and lounge on the grass to listen to live music performed by peers.