UCLA students are expressing growing frustration and fear as the threat of wildfires looms near campus. Many feel left in the dark, and the university’s response has done little to ease their anxiety.

As smoke fills the air and flames approach, tensions are rising among students. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become outlets for coping, with some students sharing their experiences and concerns. Titilope Olotue, a UCLA student documenting the crisis on TikTok, has voiced her frustration with the university’s handling of the situation. She has also launched a GoFundMe campaign to support wildfire victims.

Aya Almasri, a senior and student housing employee, shared her perspective on the growing panic. Despite warnings from friends urging evacuation, Almasri has remained on campus, continuing her shifts. Meanwhile, a student from the San Fernando Valley, who requested anonymity, described her panic after receiving an emergency alert urging evacuation. She later learned the alert had been sent in error, but the confusion left her shaken as she returned home.

Students in Dorms Fearful

Almasri noted that students living in dorms are particularly alarmed. Smoke seeps into poorly insulated buildings, exacerbating fears. While she has lived in wildfire-prone areas for much of her life, she sympathizes with first- and second-year students unfamiliar with California’s fire risks. Without reassurance from the university, she said, the fear continues to grow.

Adding to the uncertainty, rumors circulating on campus and social media have heightened tensions. One claim alleges that student-athletes received priority evacuation assistance. Reports suggest that shuttles arranged by the sports administration transported athletes to safety early Wednesday morning, leaving other students feeling abandoned.

Some are questioning whether the university is prioritizing athletes over the broader student population.

For many, the lack of clear guidance has compounded the sense of emergency.