When students hear the phrase “holistic admission” they may wonder what it really means. Does it mean admission counselors are looking at everything on an application? Are grades more important than activities? Does one challenging semester define an application?

The answer to these questions is: it depends. That’s where context comes in.

In a holistic review process, admission counselors look beyond individual numbers, accomplishments or experiences to understand the student behind the application. Context helps us make sense of what we see on the page and, importantly, understand each student’s accomplishments and opportunities based on their unique circumstances.

There Is More to a Transcript Than a GPA

A GPA is one piece of an academic record, but it doesn’t tell the entire story.

When reviewing a transcript, admission counselors consider the courses a student chose, the rigor available at their school, and their academic progression over time, as well as how they challenged themselves given the opportunities available to them.

For example, imagine two students who both have the same exact GPA. On paper, that number is identical. But perhaps one student attends a school offering dozens of AP and honors courses and has taken advantage of many of those opportunities, while another attends a school where advanced coursework is limited.

The GPA alone doesn’t tell us that story; the surrounding context does.

This doesn’t mean that students are expected to take courses their school does not offer. Instead, admission counselors want to understand how students have made the most of the academic opportunities available to them.

Opportunities Look Different for Every Student

The same principle applies beyond the classroom. One student may be involved in student government, play a varsity sport, participate in several clubs and/or volunteer in their community. Another may spend 20 hours a week working at a family business or caring for younger siblings after school.

If we only counted the number of activities listed on an application, we might miss something important. Holistic review allows admission counselors to consider how a student has spent their time and why.

An experience doesn’t have to come with an impressive title or a long list of awards to be meaningful. Employment, family responsibilities, community involvement, hobbies, athletics, creative pursuits, and other commitments can all provide valuable insight into a student’s interests, responsibilities, character and priorities.

The question isn’t simply, “What did this student do?” It’s also, “What did this student have the opportunity to do, and how did they choose to spend their time?”

Challenges Matter, Too

Context can also help explain circumstances that may have affected a student’s academic or personal experience.

Perhaps a student experienced a significant family change, had to balance school with work, moved between schools, or faced another circumstance that affected their ability to participate in certain opportunities.

A student doesn’t need to have experienced adversity to be a compelling applicant, nor should students feel pressure to share deeply personal information. However, when circumstances have meaningfully influenced a student’s experience, providing appropriate context can help an admission counselor better understand the application.

This is one reason the additional information section of an application can be useful when used thoughtfully. It’s not another essay or an opportunity to make excuses. Rather, it can provide relevant information that helps an admission counselor understand something they might otherwise misinterpret.

Your Application Tells a Story

Ultimately, a college application is more than a collection of statistics. Your grades show us how you have performed academically. Your courses demonstrate how you have challenged yourself. Your activities tell us how you spend your time and what matters to you. Your essays can give us insight into your experiences, perspectives and aspirations.

Context connects those pieces. That is why there is no single formula for what makes a strong college applicant. Students come from different schools, communities, families and circumstances. They have different opportunities and responsibilities. A holistic admission process recognizes those differences while considering each student’s academic and personal journey.

So, as you prepare your college applications, don’t worry about trying to build the “perfect” application or compare your list of activities to someone else’s. Instead, focus on telling your story honestly and thoughtfully.

Your application isn’t just about what you have done. It’s about who you are, the opportunities you have had, the choices you have made and the context in which your experiences have taken place. And that context matters.

Written By: Jessie Beeman, Assistant Director, Office of Undergraduate Admission

Hi everyone! My name is Lindsay, and I’m a senior majoring in Journalism and Political Science. Today, I’m talking about how my parents helped me in the college admission process.

College admission season is always a tricky and stressful time for students and parents. However, parents can be an amazing resource for applying to college. In fact, I would never have applied to USC if my mother hadn’t recommended it, and now I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else! Here are some ways students can utilize their parents, and some best practices for parents looking to help.

1. Financial resource

As a high school student, you likely aren’t in charge of your own finances, including paying bills, thinking about the cost of food and housing, and applying for loans or credit. Additionally, a lot of students will also be dependent on their parents, who likely know a lot more about their family’s financial situation, to pay for their college tuition. This is why your parents are the best people to help research what scholarships match your financial circumstances, how much money the FAFSA will likely give you, and whether applying for loans is a smart choice for you.

In my case, I was a National Merit Scholar, and my mom spent time looking into what colleges offered scholarships and free rides based on this designation. USC offers a $20,000 scholarship to National Merit Scholars—which helped a lot when we were looking at whether we could meet the school’s sticker price!

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2. Proof-reading applications (plus editing essays!)

It’s not always easy having your parents critique you. This is especially true when it comes to a piece of writing you’ve spent weeks bearing your soul for: college essays. However, as a journalism major, one of my mottos is that having another set of eyes on your writing is never a bad thing. My parents helped immensely with helping me fine tune my essays to sound more professional, succinct, and confident. (Just make sure your essay is still authentically you!)

It’s also great to have people as a soundboard for your ideas. My parents helped guide me on what I should include in my application that they, and an admissions officer, would find impressive. My parents helped me talk through what I felt best represented me on everything from my activities to my essay topics. This allowed me to hear multiple perspectives and get out of my own head.

3. Timeline strategizing

My mother also helped me a lot by researching what colleges had early action and early decision, and whether I wanted to utilize those options. While I took over scheduling my own time with essays and applications (tracking them through a spreadsheet), many students may want more involvement from their parents to help them stay on track. It’s all about working out the system that is best for both of you.

But don’t be afraid to push back against your parents when you need to! Ultimately, despite my mom thinking it was smarter to apply to a binding early action program, I wanted to see what my options were before making any decisions. That was definitely the best choice for my personal college journey. My mom helped give me the resources and information but, ultimately, I made the final decision.

And this wouldn’t be a complete guide without asking my mother for her perspective. Here’s what she said for other parents:

• Parents have to be willing to put in the time and effort that it takes to learn the college application process. I probably spent more than 30 hours helping my daughter fill out her applications, researching scholarships, and analyzing early decision and early action options.

• It’s important that students and parents also recognize the type of relationship they have. It’s much easier for a student to fight with their parents than a qualified stranger, such as a college counselor. Make sure students are willing to hear you (their parents) out, and make sure you (as parents) can collaborate and communicate with your students.

At the end of the day, every family’s role in the college admission process will look a little different. Whether your parents are helping you research schools, proofread essays, or simply cheering you on, having their support can make the process feel a little less overwhelming. Remember that this is your college journey, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Working together, communicating openly, and finding a balance that works for your family can make all the difference.

USC accepts both sophomore and junior transfers. That means that transfer students can apply during their first year at another institution or wait until they have more units under their belt. Of course, this applies to students with a more traditional trajectory. Do know that USC also works with and admits non-traditional students who have spent more than one or two years elsewhere (for various reasons). Ultimately, the decision of when to apply to transfer to USC—as a sophomore or a junior—is a very personal one. And there are advantages to each.

Reasons for transferring to USC as a sophomore:

• You’ll be able to complete the minimum requirements for USC (math and writing) and any for your major (e.g. the Math 118 or Math 125 equivalent for Marshall).

• You weren’t admitted to USC in the first-year application process and you know that USC is absolutely the place you want to be.

• You went elsewhere and, after a short amount of time there, realized it wasn’t the right fit.

• You have relatively strong high school work.

• You have lots of AP credit, IB credit, or college work completed prior to high school graduation—so you won’t be able to take as many GE-equivalent and lower-division major courses at your current institution.

• You’re in a program at another school where you’re locked into a sequence of courses that will not apply towards GEs and lower-division courses for your USC major—even if they’ll transfer for elective credit.

• You want more time to take advantage of USC’s offerings—from academics to study abroad to clubs and organizations to internship opportunities.

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Reasons for transferring to USC as a junior:

• You won’t be able to complete the minimum requirements for USC and any for your major because you had to remediate in courses.

• You aren’t sure what you want to pursue as your major and need more time to figure it out.

• You have a relatively poor high school record and want to show us that you’ve really turned things around in lots of strong work.

• You want to complete as many USC graduation requirements as you can prior to entering USC so that you can hit the ground running and focus on your major once at USC.

• You want to apply to other schools that only accept students as incoming juniors (such as the UCs and Cal States).

• If you’re attending a community college… You want to save as much money as possible by completing less work at USC. Or you

• You want to complete your AA.

I am sure that there are many other reasons why one option is better than the other for you. The choice is yours to make. Do know that, if you’re not admitted to USC as a transfer student the first time around (say, as an incoming sophomore), you can reapply the following year.

Written by: Anne Aubert-Santelli, Associate Director – USC Office of Admission

Throughout the year, we offer campus tours, admission presentations, and department information sessions—which you can sign up for on our website.

During the fall, we offer a number of Discover USC programs, both on-campus and off-campus for prospective students and their families to get to know USC. These programs are open to high school seniors and transfer applicants for Fall 2027 and Fall 2028. We have lots of great options to choose from…

Discover USC Open House

Our fall Discover USC Open House will take place on our University Park Campus on Saturday, October 17. This is our most comprehensive admission program for prospective students. Guests will have the opportunity to take a walking tour of campus led by a current student; hear from admission counselors about applying to USC as either a first-year or transfer applicant; attend a student panel to learn more about life as a member of our community; explore more about learning opportunities from representatives of our schools and programs; listen to an information session led by Financial Aid about financing a world-class education at USC; and experience the hustle and bustle of campus at the Academic Interest and Student Life Interest Fair (where you can pick up literature and ask questions about second majors or minors). Plus, you’ll get to experience our amazing city of Los Angeles! Register for the Discover USC Open House here.

Discover USC Off-Campus Events

Can’t make it to campus? Discover USC in a city near you! This fall, we’ll have programs in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Fort Lauderdale, Honolulu, Houston, New York, Seattle, and Washington DC, as well as Beijing, Hong Kong, London, Mumbai, New Delhi, and Shanghai. That’s a lot of flying around for our admission counselors! The events typically last two to three hours and include an admission presentation at the start. Students will then break into smaller groups by academic department, where they’ll have the opportunity to ask questions from different school representatives (for select schools). Know that, even if your academic department isn’t there, you can ask our admission counselors specific questions about your major; we’ve got you! Finally, you often have the chance to connect with local alumni who are excited at the possibility of having you join our Trojan Family. Register for a Discover USC Off-Campus Event here.

Discover USC Online Events

If you’re unable to meet us for an in-person event or you just want to stay in your pajamas, we’ll be offering online Discover USC events. These webinars are offered through Zoom and include an overview of USC and our admission process. Register for a Discover USC Online Event here.

Whatever option you choose, we hope that you’ll Discover USC for yourself this fall. We can’t wait to show you what an exciting place this is!

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Written by: Anne Aubert-Santelli, Associate Director, USC Office of Admission

One of the most common questions we hear from students is, “What are you looking for in the college essay?” By the time you sit down to write, you’ve probably heard advice from teachers, family members, friends, and the internet, all telling you what you should (or shouldn’t) write about. Before long, it can feel like you’re trying to crack a secret code. The truth is, the purpose of the college essay is much simpler than many students think.

Your application already tells us a lot about you. We can see the classes you’ve taken, your grades, your extracurricular involvement and your accomplishments. The essay serves a different purpose: it helps us understand the person behind those achievements. It’s one of the few places where we get to hear your voice, learn what matters to you and see how your experiences have shaped your perspective. Don’t ask, “What story will impress an admissions officer?”. Instead, try asking, “What story helps someone understand me a little better?”

That’s why, in some cases, the topic itself often matters less than students expect. We’ve read essays about everything, including major life events, family traditions, part-time jobs, hobbies, and everyday moments. What makes an essay memorable isn’t usually the topic itself; it’s the reflection behind it. A strong essay doesn’t just tell us what happened. It explores why it mattered and what you learned from it. Those moments of reflection help us better understand how you think and how you’ve grown.

Students sometimes spend weeks trying to guess what colleges want to hear, but there isn’t a perfect topic or a secret formula. The essays that stand out are the ones that feel authentic. Your essay doesn’t need to sound like a published author wrote it. We simply want to hear your voice and get to know the person behind the application.

At the end of the day, the college essay isn’t about proving that you’re perfect or listing another accomplishment. It’s an opportunity to share something meaningful about yourself that can’t be found anywhere else in your application. If a reader finishes your essay feeling like they’ve gotten to know you better, then you’ve accomplished exactly what the college essay is meant to do.

Written by: Jaelin Robin, Assistant Director – USC Office of Admission

At USC, welcome week begins with move-in day during the week before classes begin. The first week is part of the Trojan Welcome Experience at the beginning of each semester. Students will participate in multiple events aimed at building connections, engaging with new friends, learning about important resources, and finding community. The Trojan Welcome Experience, along with many other engaging events, is run by USC Student Life.

During move-in week, students will take part in traditions like USC New Student Convocation, the Welcome Back Concert, the Involvement Fair, the On-Campus Student Job Fair and more. Students can access information about these events on the Experience USC platform, which is exclusive to USC students and combines all the facets of college life into a single resource to help them get the most out of their college experience.

Welcome Back Concert:

The Welcome Back Concert is a music and arts show held by the USC Concerts Committee. The event features multiple popular artists and serves as a kickoff to another year at USC. The show highlights talented artists of all different forms and activities that complement the musical performances. Students on the Concerts Committee help produce the event in McCarthy Quad.

On-Campus Student Job Fair:

USC’s On-Campus Student Job Fair takes place during the first week of each semester and provides students with the opportunity to explore part-time employment on campus and with approved nonprofit organizations. Both work-study and non-work-study positions will be available to enhance students’ academic and professional development throughout the school year. Students can connect directly with campus departments and nonprofit representatives to learn about current job openings, responsibilities, hiring timelines, and application processes. Students in all majors, class standings, and degree levels are able to attend this event.

Fall Involvement Fair:

The USC Fall Involvement Fair is an excellent opportunity for new and returning students to learn about the 1,000+ clubs and organizations on campus. Getting involved is a great way to try something new, fine tune your skills, and meet new people. Whether you’re interested in club or intramural sports, Greek life, or cultural organizations, the Involvement Fair, you’ll find groups in all of these categories and more. To see a full breakdown of all of USC’s organizations and clubs, students can visit the Student Organizations and Clubs website.

Residential College Cup Kick Off:

USC’s dorms compete in the Residential College Cup every year, and the kickoff event happens during Welcome Week. The Residential College Cup is an annual competition between the seven first-year student residential colleges. Points are earned by placement in annual events, attendance at events, or scoring at events. All of these together help to determine each residential college’s ranking.

While all of these events (and so many more) are not required, I would recommend attending as many as possible. Welcome Week is a great way for students to meet new friends and find community on campus right away as they start their journey at USC. Whether students decide to join a club or go to the Welcome Back Concert with a group of people from their dorm, this week before they start your classes is all about finding their people and making USC feel a little bit more like home.

Written by: Lucy Jordan, Assistant Director, USC Office of Admission

What’s funny is that only a year before I went through recruitment processes, I was convinced that Greek life was not for me. As the first person in my family to attend university in the United States, I didn’t know much about Greek life beyond what I had seen in movies and on television. Based on those portrayals, I quickly concluded that it was an institution that didn’t align with my values or what I was looking for in college. Looking back now, I never would have guessed how positive an impact it would ultimately have on my life.

Opportunities at USC

One thing I wish I had known as an incoming student is just how many different types of Greek letter organizations exist at USC. Under Fraternity and Sorority Life (FSL), students can join organizations within the Asian Greek Council (AGC), Interfraternity Council (IFC), Multicultural Greek Council (MGC), National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), and Panhellenic Council (PHC). In addition, USC is home to numerous academic and pre-professional Greek letter organizations that bring together students with similar career interests and passions.

About 20% of USC’s student body is involved in Greek life. This means that, while Greek life can be a great way to build community, it’s by no means a requirement for having a successful, enjoyable college experience. USC offers countless opportunities to find your community, and Greek organizations are one of the many avenues that students can explore. The diversity of organizations allows students to find communities that align with their interests, identities, and goals.

What Greek Life Has Given Me

Personally, I chose to become involved in both an academic organization and a social Greek organization. I joined Delta Phi Epsilon, an international relations and foreign service society. I joined this organization because I wanted to connect with students who shared my interests in global affairs and public service. Through the organization, I have been able to stay informed about current events, learn from my peers, and share academic and professional resources. I also joined Alpha Delta Pi (ADPi), a Panhellenic sorority, where I found a community that quickly became a second family. Some of my closest friendships at USC began through ADPi, including friendships that led to future roommates, study partners, travel companions, and lifelong memories. I now serve on the executive board of the organization, which has allowed me to build my leadership, interpersonal, and management skills.

Beyond friendships, Greek-letter organizations have also provided me with valuable professional networks. Whether through alumni connections, mentorship opportunities, or simply having a community of people willing to share advice and resources, these organizations continue to support members long after graduation. While these experiences come from my own involvement, my friends across Greek organizations and councils have shared similar experiences.

Advice for Prospective Students

If you’re a prospective student who is curious about Greek life but unsure whether it is right for you, my biggest piece of advice is to approach it with an open mind.

You do not need to have everything figured out before getting here or even once you’re in the organization. You’ll have the opportunity to attend information sessions, talk to current members, ask questions, and explore different communities. The goal is not to join an organization simply because others are doing it, but to find spaces where you feel comfortable, supported, and excited to grow.

It’s also important to remember that every Greek organization has its own culture, mission, and values. The experience can look very different depending on the community you join—which is why exploring your options is so valuable. At the end of the day, there is no harm in considering different opportunities. You can always go through a recruitment process, meet new people, and learn more about the community. If you decide that the experience is not the right fit for you, that’s completely okay too!

Closing Thoughts

Greek life ended up being one of the biggest surprises of my college experience. What I once dismissed based on stereotypes became a source of friendship, mentorship, leadership, and belonging. While it may not be the right path for everyone, I am incredibly grateful that I gave it a chance. College is ultimately about finding the communities that help you grow into the person you want to become. For me, Greek life was one of those communities and helped USC become my home away from home.

One of the things students don’t always realize is that admission counselors don’t review applications in a vacuum. When I have questions about a student’s high school, whether it’s the curriculum, grading policies, or the opportunities available, I often reach out to their school counselor or teachers to learn more. Those conversations provide context that isn’t always visible on a transcript.

They’ve also reminded me of something important: the relationships you build throughout high school matter far beyond the college application process. They help others understand who you are, they provide guidance when you’re making important decisions, and they prepare you to build a network of mentors throughout your life.

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Build Relationships That Help Others Understand Who You Are

Grades tell us how you performed in a course. Teachers and counselors see something much more meaningful. They see your curiosity, your work ethic, how you respond to challenges and how you’ve grown over time.

These are the moments that shape their understanding of you: when you are asking a thoughtful question after class, contributing to a class discussion, stopping by your counselor’s office to talk about your interests, or sharing a challenge you’ve worked through. While these interactions may seem small, they help teachers and counselors get to know you as a person, not just as another student on their roster.

As an admission counselor, I learn so much from recommendation letters because they reveal qualities that a transcript simply cannot. The strongest letters don’t just describe a student’s academic performance, they tell the story of someone the writer genuinely knows. Those relationships aren’t built during senior year; they’re developed over time through consistent engagement, curiosity and trust.

Seek Perspectives, Not Just Answers

High school is filled with many decisions, choosing classes, exploring careers, considering colleges and discovering new interests. Teachers and counselors may not have all the answers, nor do they share the same interests or career goals as every student. What they do have is perspective.

They’ve worked with hundreds of students navigating similar questions. They’ve seen students change majors before they even reach college, discover passions they never expected and find success through many different paths. Their experience allows them to ask thoughtful questions, offer guidance and help you think more critically about the choices in front of you.

The best conversations happen when you’ve taken the time to build a relationship. Share your goals, be honest about what excites or worries you and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The more a teacher or counselor understands your interests and aspirations, the better they can help you identify opportunities that align with who you are becoming.

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Learn a Skill That Will Follow You Into College

One of the greatest benefits of building relationships with teachers and counselors is that you’re also developing a lifelong skill: learning how to seek mentorship.

Look for opportunities to become involved beyond the classroom. Volunteer to help with events through your college and career center, take on leadership roles and be someone others can rely on to follow through on commitments. Reliability, initiative and genuine engagement leave lasting impressions!

When you transition to college, you’ll have the opportunity to build these same kinds of relationships with professors, academic advisors, mentors and campus staff. Students who are comfortable introducing themselves, asking thoughtful questions, attending office hours and seeking guidance are often the ones who make the most of their college experience.

The relationships you build in high school are more than preparation for the admission process; they’re practice for a lifetime of learning. Long after you’ve submitted your applications, the habit of connecting with mentors, sharing your goals and remaining curious will continue to open doors throughout your undergraduate experience and beyond.

Written by: Rosa Garcia Rios, Assistant Director – USC Office of Undergraduate Admission

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The college admission process is a bit murky and confusing—in part because many schools have what’s called “holistic” review. Some schools have a formulaic admission process, which focuses on quantitative metrics such as your GPA, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), and class rank. Holistic review means that both quantitative and qualitative factors are considered—and people are the ones who are evaluating those qualitative factors; rather than plugging your stats into a computer and deciding to admit based upon a mathematical algorithm, a person is evaluating all parts of your application. It’s an imperfect, human process that’s impossible to predict. (Heck, I have no clue if a student will be admitted or not the first time I sit down to read their application; by the time we’ve gotten through the full applicant pool and others have reviewed the application, who knows what will happen.

In a holistic review process, everything is considered. For example…

When it comes to your academic profile, admission counselors won’t just be looking at your GPA, but how you arrived at that GPA. So, in some ways, even your academic profile is reviewed holistically. Check out our articles The Anatomy of a Transcript: How We Review Your Academic Record (for students attending schools in the U.S.) and Understanding Your Academic Record as an International Applicant (for students attending schools abroad) to learn more about how we consider your transcripts.

We’re test optional, so you can choose whether or not to submit your ACT or SAT scores. You won’t be penalized if you don’t. If you do, they help provide us with additional academic context.

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Then there is your activities list. We’ll be paying attention to your level of commitment—given the amount of time you’ve participated in a certain activity. We’ll also be looking for any leadership positions, which are not always necessary. (Clubs need followers too). We’re essentially trying to understand what you’re doing with your time outside of the classroom.

Now we get to the writing samples... You’ll have your larger Essay, which will be on the Common Application for USC. There are numerous prompts to choose from—so you shouldn’t have trouble finding a great topic to address. Here, we’re certainly looking at how well you write. But, more importantly, we hope to get to know you as much as possible. Your short answers will also be telling. USC’s short answer asks you to discuss your academic interests and how you plan to pursue them at USC. This question is pretty straightforward: why your major or majors and why USC. When it comes to the writing pieces, we’re trying to understand what makes you who you are, what your aspirations are, why you think you would make a good member of our community, and so much more.

Finally, you have your letter of recommendation. Depending upon your major, you may be required to submit more than one. This letter of recommendation, from an academic teacher or a counselor, helps provide context. It lets us know who you are inside and outside of the classroom, from someone who has watched you grow throughout high school.

In essence, all of these materials come together to paint a picture of who you are—as much as is possible—because that’s what we most want to know.

Written by: Anne Aubert-Santelli, Associate Director, USC Office of Admission

One of the requirements when applying to college is the college essay. The college essay is an important part of the application because it provides students with the opportunity to write about themselves to help admission officers get to know them better. It essentially reflects the student’s voice and offers a glimpse into their personality.

As you begin preparing for the college essay, deciding what to write may feel overwhelming. More specifically, choosing a personal experience that will best showcase what makes you, you. Admission officers are not looking for specific topics or experiences. Instead, we want students to share a story that authentically reflects their core values, character and personal growth. While you can write about any topic, the following overarching themes can help you narrow down an experience to highlight in your college essay.

Hobbies/Interests: It is likely that you have developed interests and hobbies throughout your time in high school. You may have several to choose from or may have one particular passion that has significantly influenced your aspirations. These include, but are not limited to, sports, performing arts, entrepreneurship, cultural exchange, etc. If you have strong academic or professional interests, you can also choose to write about personal projects, research or programs you have participated in. When choosing to write about a hobby or interest, reflect on what excites you about it and how it has shaped your character and goals.

Community Roles: Meaningful roles and responsibilities within a community can also provide a strong essay by highlighting your maturity and leadership potential. Whether your role is in a school club, in a neighborhood organization, at church, or within your family as the oldest or youngest sibling, etc., writing about your leadership and the impact that you have made demonstrates your ability to work well with others. It also gives admission officers a picture of how you can contribute to and thrive within the community on campus.

Personal Challenges: If you have experienced personal challenges, you may choose to write about how you’ve grown and overcome them. You might share your experience navigating a health issue, adversity or any other hardship that you feel comfortable discussing. Be sure to reflect on why you are sharing this experience, how you have persevered and what you learned from it. Explaining how you have navigated any kind of personal challenge can demonstrate your resilience, adaptability and ability to overcome difficult situations.

The college essay is ultimately about helping admission officers learn more about you. Choose to write about an experience that is meaningful to you and one that you feel comfortable sharing. Most importantly, remember it’s your story and your voice!

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Written By: Marlin Banuelos, Assistant Director – USC Office of Undergraduate Admission

The City of Los Angeles has many events for USC students to attend throughout the seasons. Today, we would like to highlight a fun, long-standing event that has become increasingly popular among USC students: Jazz at LACMA.

Jazz at LACMA is a free outdoors jazz event located at the Outdoor Smidt Welcome Plaza of LACMA in Mid-Wilshire, Los Angeles. The jazz event is hosted on Friday evenings, May through November from 6pm to 8 pm. Jazz at LACMA has a forever rotating line-up of L.A and world-renowned jazz legends. Traveling to Jazz at LACMA for USC students has gotten easier as well, with the newly constructed Metro D-Line train station that can take USC students there from University Park. This is also a popular place where USC students meet and convene with UCLA college students from neighboring Westwood.

Whether you’re a fan of jazz music or not, Jazz at LACMA is a great place to meet new people, hang out, and take in the warm scenery. It also puts you in a position to attend and participate in plenty of activities in the Mid-Wilshire neighborhood before and afterwards. The LACMA Museum is open for L.A. county residents to attend after 3 pm on weekdays. There are also many nearby restaurants and other attractions to check out, including The Grove; a popular outdoor shopping center, The Academy Awards Museum, and the La Brea Tar Pits, just to name a few.

In 1961, the LACMA museum opened its doors to the world. In 1991, the LACMA museum began the incredible Jazz at LACMA tradition, celebrating the museum’s 30-year history as a staple in the city of Los Angeles. My father frequently attended Jazz at LACMA throughout the 1990’s. He would tell me about the fun times he had going to the event with his friends when he was my age, and I later attended when I was a USC undergraduate student. This summer, we went back to the event together and ran into his old friends that have been regularly attending the event for over 30 years. This is truly something that the entire Los Angeles community enjoys.

Every Friday evening throughout late spring and early fall, you’ll find hundreds of USC students, jazz enthusiasts, and community members of all ages gathering for the smooth sounds and inviting atmosphere of Jazz at LACMA. We strongly encourage our incoming Trojans to attend and immerse themselves in this unique piece of Los Angeles culture.

Written by: John Russell, Assistant Director – USC Office of Undergraduate Admission

One of the first traditions new USC students participate in on campus is New Student Convocation, USC’s official welcome to the Trojan Family. The event is a tradition that marks your first steps into our academic community and celebrates the beginning of your journey at USC—whether you are a new undergraduate, graduate, or transfer student. Students will experience the strength of the Trojan Family, which has grown to over 500,000 people strong.

Convocation takes place during USC’s Welcome Week, the week before students start their first classes in August. In the Fall, new students typically gather for a procession before a morning ceremony, followed by a welcome barbecue or resource fair. The event is usually held at 8:30 AM in the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum or Alumni Memorial Park (between Doheny Library and Bovard Auditorium). The event will also be available at the Galen Center in early January for any students starting in the Spring Semester. Either way, students are welcomed with inspiring words and a strong demonstration of the Trojan Spirit.

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Convocation kicks off the USC Welcome Experience, a series of events designed to welcome and integrate our newest Trojans into our school’s passionate community, acting as the official start to a student’s academic journey at USC. Our newest Trojans will wear full academic regalia in cardinal and black and make their way through crowds of their family members and friends. Convocation marks the beginning of an unforgettable journey for our new students as they embark on their academic and personal growth at USC.

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New students attending Convocation will hear tributes from the USC Trojan Marching band and speeches from current students, alumni, and even the university president. This event is a great opportunity to dive right into the Trojan Family and experience the deep history and strong traditions USC offers.

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Written by: Lucy Jordan, Assistant Director, USC Office of Admission

If you’re an international student navigating the U.S. admissions process, you’ve likely come across the phrase “test-optional.” And if you’re anything like the many families we meet across the world each year, you might be wondering:

“Do I really not need the SAT or ACT?”
“Will skipping scores hurt my chances?”
“Is ‘test-optional’ code for ‘still submit tests’”?

Let’s break it down, clearly and honestly.

What “Test-Optional” Means at USC

At USC, test-optional truly means optional. If you choose not to submit SAT or ACT scores, your application will still be reviewed in full, and you won’t be at a disadvantage. We don’t penalize students who leave out test scores. We also don’t try to read between the lines or “guess” why scores are missing. Every year, we admit thousands of students, including international applicants, who apply without test scores. We view each applicant holistically, which means we consider a wide range of factors: your academic record, rigor of courses taken, school context, essays, extracurricular involvement, letter of recommendation and more. In short: test scores can add value, but they are not required to demonstrate your potential. Our goal is to understand who you are as a learner, a thinker and a community member, not just how you performed on one standardized exam.

Should You Submit Scores?

This is one of the most common questions we receive from international students. The answer? It depends on what best represents you. If you have a strong SAT or ACT score, go ahead and include it. For many students, a high-test score can serve as one more way to demonstrate their strengths, especially if they attend a school where grading practices are unfamiliar or lack external benchmarks. On the other hand, students who don’t have access to testing, faced disruptions or don’t feel their score reflects their ability can leave it out. Choosing not to submit test scores is a valid and respected decision. USC is committed to evaluating students based on their context, their curriculum and the other parts of the application that tell us about their intellectual curiosity and academic growth.

For Students in National Curriculums

We understand that not every school system functions the same way, and many international students come from national curriculums where school grades may be internally assessed, and can vary widely in scale and meaning. In these cases, students often wonder whether submitting SAT or ACT scores might help “standardize” their academic profile. Sometimes, yes. A strong test score may provide a helpful external data point, especially if your curriculum does not include externally moderated exams like A-Levels, IB, APs, or national exit exams. That said, USC is well-versed in reviewing international transcripts and understanding national systems. We receive thousands of applications from students in the Chinese National Curriculum, Indian Boards (CBSE/ISC), Thai Ministry of Education, German Abitur and beyond. We’re familiar with how to assess these systems in context. If your academic performance has been strong relative to your school and curriculum, and you can show growth and challenge, test scores aren’t required to fill in any gaps.

For Students in IB and IGCSE Programs

If you’re in the IB Diploma Programme or studying under the IGCSE/A-Level track, you technically fall under our test-optional policy. But in practice, you’re already submitting test scores. Here’s how: both the IB and British systems rely heavily on externally assessed exams, and we take those very seriously in our review process. IB students submit predicted scores as part of the application, and these function as a standardized academic benchmark. We use them to understand your academic performance in a globally recognized and rigorous curriculum. Likewise, IGCSE results provide early indicators of subject mastery. When paired with A-Level predictions, they often give us a more complete picture than an SAT or ACT ever could. While you’re not required to submit the SAT/ACT, it’s worth noting that your application will still include exam-based data. So, in these cases, “test-optional” doesn’t mean we’re reviewing you in a vacuum. Instead, we’re evaluating you based on the academic system you’re in, with the tools it already provides.

What About English Proficiency Tests?

English proficiency testing is separate from the SAT or ACT. At USC, we require non-native English speakers to demonstrate fluency in English, but this requirement is fulfilled through different exams: TOEFL, IELTS, PTE or the Duolingo English Test. We do not waive this requirement under any circumstance. These tests help us understand whether you’ll be successful in a fast-paced, English-speaking academic environment. Thus, we don’t expect perfection. We use them as evidence that you’ll be able to read, write, speak and listen effectively in a U.S. university setting.

Important - students who use SAT or ACT scores to satisfy the English proficiency requirement cannot be test-optional.

What Else Matters If You Don’t Submit a Test?

If you choose not to submit standardized test scores, the rest of your application becomes even more important, and that’s okay. We’ll be paying close attention to your academic history, your course rigor and how you’ve performed relative to your peers. For students who apply from systems without class rank or GPA, we evaluate trends over time. Did you challenge yourself? Did your grades improve? Are you taking advanced or specialized courses where available? Beyond academics, we’ll read your essays closely. We’re listening for your voice, your values and your point of view. Your extracurricular involvement gives us insight into your passions and commitments. Your letters of recommendation helps, us understand how you engage in your learning community. Every piece of your application works together to tell your story. So even without test scores, you have many ways to stand out and show us why you belong at USC.

Final Takeaway

To international students and families wondering whether you “need” test scores: No, not if the rest of your application can speak clearly for itself. At USC, we welcome students from all around the world, from all types of schools, systems and testing access levels. Our test-optional policy is designed to create access and flexibility, not to create more pressure. You are more than a number or a score. If you’re prepared for college-level work, have pursued your interests with purpose and are excited to grow as a scholar and community member, we’ll see that, scores or no scores. Trust yourself and trust the process.

Written by: Tyler Swartout - International Admission Officer - USC Office of Undergraduate Admission

Outdoor activities:

• Hiking is completely free! I would highly recommend the Hollywood hike or the hike to Griffith Observatory (where going inside is also free)!

• The beach also costs nothing! I love to lounge at Manhattan Beach, walk around Santa Monica Pier (which you can get to by taking the Metro Line at USC), or bonfire at Dockweiler.

• L.A. has a great thrifting/flea market scene. I’ve been to the LA Vintage Warehouse ($15 entry fee and $6 per pound of clothing) and the Melrose Trading Post ($6 entry fee).

Entertainment: L.A. is obviously known for its music scene, so I would highly recommend taking advantage of the concert availability.

• A few concerts that I’ve attended include Ella Jane for $20, Aidan Bissett for $40, and Meghan Trainer for $60.

• L.A. also has a great musical scene. I got to see Hamilton and Les Miserables for about $60 each.

• A cheaper option is to explore USC’s or other LA colleges’ performances. I have a friend at LMU whose plays cost around $15 (and are basically professional quality)! I saw A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Elemeno Pea.

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Meals: You can get basically every food offering in LA, from $2 street tacos to Michelin star restaurants. Here are some of my favorites around the city:

• Markets like Mercado la Paloma or Grand Central Market range about $10 to $30 for a meal.

• Ocean View Cafe has a delicious brunch and costs about $20!

• Korean BBQ is super popular in LA (and very close to USC)! It costs about $40 for all you can eat. Road to Seoul would be my recommendation!

• Din Tai Fung is another super popular place (with amazing chocolate dumplings) and costs about $40.

• Everyone has to experience Erewhon at least once. You don’t just have to get their $20 smoothies. There is also sushi, sandwiches, and other meal offerings.

• You can also find great deals. My friends and I went to Tao (which was featured on “Sex and the City”), which can cost around $100 a person. If you go for their happy hour from 5pm to 7pm Monday through Thursday or 5pm to 6pm on Friday, you can get dumplings for $1 each!

Misc: Other great L.A. adventures have included

• Top Golf: about $30

• The Huntington Gardens: about $25 per person – discounted with student ID)

• The Arboretum Los Angeles: about $15

• Cat Cafe Lounge: $70 for 3 hours

But again! There are great hacks to do activities for cheaper. For instance, the Huntington provides free tickets on the last Thursday of every month for admission the following week. Another great tip is to join clubs, participating in residential activities or have an on-campus job You can usually expect group outings. I’ve gotten to go bowling, to a trampoline park, and all around LA for free or included in my dues.

Transportation:

• The Metro costs $1.75 per trip, but USC students get their Metro cards for free!

• Driving is another great option. USC provides parking passes for about $500 per year or semester?.

• You can also rideshare. USC provides free Lyft within 2 miles of USC. Ubers/Lyfts farther than that will depend on how far you go and how many people are in your group. In my experience, Waymos are typically cheaper, if you’re willing to brave a driver-less car!

Whether you’re looking for free outdoor adventures or planning a special night out, there’s something in Los Angeles for every budget. One of the best parts about being a student at USC is having access to so many incredible experiences, just a short trip from campus. With a little planning (and a few student discounts), you can make the most of everything LA has to offer without breaking the bank.

My name is Edie Cingrani, and I am a senior majoring in International Relations and the Global Economy at USC’s Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences. I am minoring in Education Policy through the Price School of Public Policy and the Rossier School of Education. I am also completing a Master’s in Public Diplomacy through the Progressive Degree Program at the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. I am from Highlands Ranch, Colorado.

Although my years in high school are now fond memories, I often reflect on that time as one of excitement, new beginnings and nerves. One of the life-changing decisions that a college-bound high school student has to make is where to apply and spend their four years of undergraduate study.

As I approached senior year, I had to start narrowing the list of colleges I would apply to and figure out how to do just that. Where does one begin? I had been looking forward to attending university to study not only what I was passionate about, but to also find a community for my time in college and beyond. Through extensive research, campus tours and conversations with current students, USC quickly rose to the top of my list. While every student’s college search is different, USC stood out to me for its academic opportunities, the support of the Trojan Family, its location in the heart of Los Angeles and the experiences available both inside and outside the classroom.

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Learning Opportunities

One of the primary reasons USC made my final college list was its interdisciplinary academic experience. In high school, I knew I wanted to study International Relations, so I researched how different universities structured their programs, the research opportunities offered and if students had the flexibility to explore other interests. USC immediately stood out because it is a “school of schools.” I knew the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences would be my home base within USC, but I also loved that I could take classes across the university. As a student, I have taken courses in multiple USC schools, including the Thornton School of Music, Viterbi School of Engineering and the Price School of Public Policy. I also added a minor in Education Policy and am also pursuing a progressive degree, which will allow me to earn my Master of Public Diplomacy degree as well as my bachelor’s degree in four years. Despite being a large university, I appreciated that classes are primarily discussion-based, where I could build relationships with professors. Those connections have led to research opportunities focused on international climate policy and development, expanding my education beyond the classroom.

The Trojan Family

I also wanted to find a campus where students genuinely enjoyed being part of the community. During tours and information sessions, I observed student life, participation in campus traditions and whether there was a strong sense of school pride. At USC, I found that there was a vibrant a spirited community. From my very first campus tour, I could feel the excitement of being a Trojan. Today, as a USC tour guide, I still see prospective students notice that same energy. Of course, there is nothing quite like game day at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, but the Trojan Family extends far beyond athletics. Students, professors and alums genuinely support one another, whether that means mentoring, sharing career advice or opening doors to new opportunities. That lifelong network was something I valued before I applied, and it has become one of my favorite parts of being a USC student.

Location is Everything

Growing up in the suburbs of Denver, Colorado, I was ready for a change of scenery. I wanted to attend a university in a city where I could explore new experiences while preparing for my future career. USC’s location in the heart of Los Angeles made that possible. Living in one of the world’s most dynamic cities means there’s always something new to discover—from museums and concerts to beaches, hiking trails and sporting events. Los Angeles also provides incredible professional opportunities. Whether pursuing business, technology, entertainment, healthcare, public service or international affairs, LA is home to endless internships, networking events and hands-on experiences that are readily available. Having those opportunities just minutes from campus made USC stand out from many of the other schools on my list.

Looking Back

The reasons USC made my college list are the same reasons I am grateful I found both a home and a community as a Trojan. USC challenges me academically, encourages me to explore new interests and surrounds me with individuals that want to see me succeed. As you build your own college list, think about where you can truly picture yourself thriving, not just for four few years, but long after graduation. For me, that place was USC. Fight on!

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We’ve heard from students and families for some time now that they wish there was an Early Decision (ED) option for USC. So, last year, we piloted ED for the Marshall School of Business. We were surprised by how popular the option was and how strong the applicant pool was. For these reasons, we felt that we were ready to offer ED more widely. This upcoming application cycle, we will have Early Decision for all majors except those in the performing arts (because their audition processes don’t line up with the ED notification process). The deadline is November 1, which is also our Early Action (non-binding) and merit scholarship deadlines.

We don’t yet know what the admit rate for Early Decision students will be—since this is mostly new for us. As aforementioned, the students admitted ED for Marshall last year had the same academic preparation as students admitted in other rounds. So we expect the same for our wider ED offering this year.

There are some advantages to applying Early Decision. First, if admitted ED, you’ll get your decision earlier. For USC, that will be mid-December. This gives you the chance to relax during the rest of your senior year (though we want you to keep your grades up!) and forgo applying to additional institutions. If you’re not admitted ED, you will still receive full consideration during the Regular Decision process. USC defers all students not admitted in the early rounds to RD. Also, you’ll also be applying by the merit scholarship deadline, so you’ll receive consideration for scholarships, such as the Presidential Scholarship (half tuition) and Trustee Scholarship (full tuition), amongst others. It’s important to note that students applying ED are considered for need-based financial aid in the same way as students applying Early Action and Regular Decision. So, there’s no penalty when it comes to need-based aid.

So, this begs the question: is Early Decision right for you?

A student should only apply Early Decision if they are committed to attending USC, if admitted. To put it simply, ED is binding. Students applying ED will need to submit an Early Decision Agreement—with signatures from themselves, their parents or guardians, and their counselors—indicating that they understand the terms of applying Early Decision. For example, they can only apply ED to one school. And, if admitted, they agree to withdraw their applications from all other schools to which they’ve applied. Of course, if a student is admitted Early Decision and goes through the Financial Aid process only to learn that they cannot afford to attend their ED school, they have the option of withdrawing from USC.

Ultimately, when deciding what round to apply to USC, really think about what makes sense for you. If USC is your first choice, it may be the right option. Not sure if USC is your first choice? We recommend that you attend one of our fall Discover USC programs, such as our signature Discover USC Open House. You can also visit campus and sign up for an in-person or virtual admission presentation and/or academic information session. Engaging with the university in these ways can help solidify where USC stands on your list. Let us show you why this is such a great institution.

Written by: Anne Aubert-Santelli, Associate Director - USC Office of Admission

It’s no surprise that Los Angeles is home to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. The nexus of the entertainment industry, LA has dozens of movie studios spanning Burbank to Culver City. For those interested in studying cinematic arts, there’s no better place to be than in the heart of it all. There are tons of internship opportunities—whether at an agency, on the set of a movie or TV show, or for a production house. Plus, with seven undergraduate majors, our School of Cinematic Arts is often regarded as the top school of its kind.

My husband went through USC’s screenwriting program and I’m a TV aficionado, so we’re naturally drawn to various forms of cinematic arts. Though it opened in 2021, we had never been to the Academic Museum of Motion Pictures. The museum is a quick metro ride on the Expo line (with two stops serving USC) to a bus that takes you straight down Wilshire Boulevard.

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The huge structure is fitting for a museum of its kind. On the corner of Wilshire and Fairfax, the building has a tall gold cylinder, reminiscent of an Oscar statue. $15 will get you access to permanent and rotating exhibits. For an extra $5, you can have what they call “The Oscar Experience,” where you get to pretend you’ve won an Oscar. You walk on stage at the Dolby Theatre, where you hold a real statuette while receiving a standing ovation from a fake crowd. If you plan to study cinematic arts, this is a must. For free, you can take a picture sitting at the desk of Vito Corleone from The Godfather in a replica of the film’s famous office.

While we were there, we went to see Dorothy’s iconic ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, along with other important costumes from the film. There was an exhibit all about Jaws and Pixar’s Toy Story (one of my favorites growing up). I most enjoyed the exhibit on Norma Jeane Mortenson, better known as Marilyn Monroe, and how she invented her public persona. And, as a huge fan of Korean entertainment, the exhibit on Bong Joon Ho, who work the Academy Award for Parasite, was a must.

If you’re visiting campus, are a film lover, and have a little extra time to spend in Los Angeles, this unique Museum is a can’t miss!

Written by: Anne Aubert-Santelli, Associate Director, USC Office of Admission

For many students around the world, letters of recommendation are not a standard part of the application process. So, if this feels unfamiliar, you’re not alone. We understand that this may be new for you and for your school, and that’s completely okay.

At USC, we only require one letter of recommendation. If your school has a dedicated college counselor, that is who you should ask. If not, you can ask a teacher. The most important thing is that the person knows you well and can speak thoughtfully about your experience as a student.

So what are we actually looking for in a letter of recommendation?

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1) It’s About How You Show Up as a Student

A letter of recommendation is not meant to confirm that you are “excellent at mathematics” or “strong in biology.” We already see that in your grades and academic results.

What we’re really interested in is how you are as a student.

How do you engage in the classroom?
How do you interact with your teacher?
How do you work with other students?

In the U.S., education often emphasizes discussion, participation, and collaboration. It can be more Socratic and more holistic. Because of that, your behavior, your curiosity, your attitude, and your approach to learning all matter.

It’s completely natural if your teacher also talks about your academic strengths. We expect that. But what really adds value is insight into your presence in the learning environment.

2) Outside the Classroom, If Possible

It can be helpful if your recommender can speak to what you do beyond the classroom. This might include activities, interests, or contributions to your school community.

But, if that is not part of your school environment, don’t worry. We understand that not all schools offer clubs, sports, or structured extracurriculars in the same way. A letter can still be very effective if it focuses only on your classroom experience. Context matters, and we take that into account.

3) A More Personal, Narrative Approach

The most helpful letters tend to feel more like a story than a report.

They are conversational, personal, and specific. They help us understand how someone at your school sees you and how you move through your environment as a student.

This does not need to be overly formal or overly academic. In fact, the best letters often include small, specific examples that bring your personality and approach to learning to life.

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A Note on FERPA

When you apply, you will have the option to waive your FERPA rights, which means you are choosing not to view your letter of recommendation.

This is entirely your choice. However, we generally encourage students to waive this right. Doing so allows your recommender to write freely and honestly, without feeling like their words are being reviewed. It can lead to a more candid and meaningful letter, which ultimately helps us better understand you.

Written by: Dr. Nathan Mack, Associate Director of International Admission - USC Office of Undergraduate Admission

Just across the street from the USC campus is Exposition Park, an urban park where you can find a collection of world-class museums and entertainment venues, including the Los Angeles Coliseum. USC students get free access to these museums. (Many of the museums also offer free general admission to all visitors.) Exposition Park is a great way for students to take a break from campus and enjoy opportunities outside the classroom. Here are the museums that students and visitors can find just across the street from the USC campus:

California Science Center

The California Science Center is one of the largest and most highly rated museums in the nation. It features nearly 150 interactive exhibits, an IMAX Theater, and the iconic Endeavour Space Shuttle. The California Science Center is currently expanding its Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, which is scheduled to open in November 2026. Visitors will get to see the Endeavor Space Shuttle in launch position, along with a collection of authentic aircraft artifacts.

Natural History Museum

Discover the natural and cultural history of the world at the Natural History Museum. With over 35 million objects, specimens, and artifacts, visitors can explore various exhibits spanning from prehistoric to modern times. Popular exhibits include the Dinosaur Hall, with over 300 fossils, and the Gem and Mineral Hall, which features the rarest gemstones in the world. You can also learn about the native history and development of Los Angeles in the Becoming Los Angeles exhibit.

California African American Museum

Further explore the history and culture of African Americans at the California African American Museum. Along with housing a vast collection of artwork and historical documents, the museum also hosts special performances, workshops, and other engaging events that offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about the past, present, and future of the African American community.

Lucas Museum of Narrative Art

Founded by the creator of Star Wars, George Lucas, and Mellody Hobson, the highly anticipated Lucas Museum of Narrative Art will showcase the art of visual storytelling through dynamic galleries, two state-of-the-art cinematic theaters, and spaces for learning and engagement. The museum is scheduled to open in September 2026. The coolest part of the Lucas Museum is not only the artwork that it will feature, but also the building itself. The 300,000-square-foot building resembles a futuristic starship with a green roof and gardens that will make visitors feel like they are in another world.

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Written By: Marlin Banuelos, Assistant Director – USC Office of Undergraduate Admission

Summer at USC has a slightly different feel than does the rest of the year. Campus is a little quieter, the weather is hard to beat, but there’s still plenty happening. Whether you’re taking a summer class, working on campus, completing an internship, or just visiting to see what life as a Trojan is like, it’s a great time to experience both USC and Los Angeles.

One of my favorite parts of summer is slowing down and enjoying campus. Grab an iced coffee or lunch in the USC Village, take a walk down Trousdale Parkway, or spend an afternoon reading in Alumni Park. If you want to get off campus without going far, Exposition Park is right next door and home to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and the California Science Center. There are also lots of restaurants and food options walking-distance from campus. With three metro stops around campus, students are able to easily get around and spend a few hours exploring without ever needing a car.

One thing that’s unique about spending the summer at USC is how many students are balancing work with fun. You might be working an on-campus job, conducting research with a faculty member, or interning at a company somewhere in Los Angeles. One of the perks of being in LA is that opportunities are spread across the city and, when the day wraps up, it’s easy to meet up with friends for dinner, catch a concert, or head to the beach. Summer has a nice balance of being productive while still providing time to enjoy everything around you.

Speaking of the beach, it’s hard to pass up a summer afternoon by the water. Hop on the Metro E Line and you’ll be in Santa Monica before you know it—where you can walk the pier, bike along The Strand, or simply watch the sunset. If you’re looking to explore even more of Los Angeles, spend an afternoon at The Grove and the Original Farmers Market, hike up to Griffith Observatory for incredible city views, or check out a neighborhood you’ve never been to before. There’s always something new to discover around LA.

One of the best things about attending USC is that your college experience doesn’t stop when you leave campus, and summer is a reminder of that. Between classes, internships, campus jobs, and weekends spent exploring Los Angeles, you’ll quickly find your own favorite spots and routines. Summers in LA are special, and USC students can take advantage of all the city has to offer during the best months of the year.

Written by: Jaelin Robin, Assistant Director, USC Office of Admission