College fairs—whether organized by your school, community, or an organization such as the National Association for College Admission Counseling—is a great way to gather lots of information about as many schools as possible in a short amount of time. It’s also a great opportunity to connect with admission counselors and/or alumni representatives from those colleges and universities. Here are eight suggestions for how to make the most out of these events:

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1. Prepare ahead of time. At least a little. If you can.

We know that you’re super busy, but even one hour of prep can make a huge difference. At the very least, get the list of schools attending ahead of time and make a plan so you can talk to representatives from those schools that are definitely on your list. If you can, do preliminary research about those schools. Check that they have your program of interest and look at their basic admission requirements. If you’re a senior and your college fair is taking place after August 1, consider starting your application in case you have any specific questions about completing it.

2. Ask good questions.

Most admission counselors will probably agree the most common question we get asked is, “how is your psychology program?” It’s not necessarily a bad question; it just doesn’t lead to a helpful answer. We’re all going to tell you it’s good, right? But the more important matter is whether it’s good for you. We’ll always encourage you to check out the department website to learn more about classes, research, and what students are up to—to help you decide if our psychology (or whatever other) major has what you’re looking for. It’s also not uncommon for students to come to our table with a list of questions provided to them by their teachers or counselors. Please feel free to deviate from them; they’re only supposed to be a starting point. In general, avoid questions you can easily Google and ask thoughtful questions that the human being in front of you can answer. For example, you might ask, “what’s your admission philosophy?” instead of “what’s your admission rate?”. However—and this is important—do understand that we are limited as human beings. When I’m at a college fair, I have to represent over 150 majors, 250 minors, 50+ club and intramural sports, 1,000+ student organizations, and more. My brain can only hold so much information. I might not remember if we have a knitting club or all of the concentrations for our Business Administration major. If I don’t know the answer, I’ll give you my business card and ask you to follow up.

3. Be on your best behavior.

This is just good general life advice. You can start by making a good first impression. You certainly don’t have to show up in a suit, but maybe don’t wear pajamas either. This one’s really important: be respectful of the people around you. You might have to wait in a line to speak with a college rep. It might be frustrating. But be kind to others. Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to ear hustle. Listen to what the people in front of you are asking, because they might have the same question as you or an awesome question you didn’t even think of. Because there are others around you, college fairs are not the time to ask sensitive or personal questions. Get a business card and follow up. Also—and this is a pet peeve of mine—don’t ask college representatives to compare their school to another. We’re there to represent our institutions. Finally, be mindful of germs. Stay home if you’re sick and have a friend pick up a brochure for you. And don’t be offended if we don’t shake your hand.

4. Take the lead.

In general, students should take the lead in the college admission process. We admission counselor love connecting with students. It’s one of our favorite parts of the job. We’re certainly happy to answer any questions your parents have, but don’t let them do all the talking for you.

5. Be open-minded.

You should absolutely come in with a game plan to speak with colleges you know you’re interested in. But there’s no better time than a college fair to quickly explore other options because there are so many schools in one place. There might be a school you know little about that, after speaking with their college rep, you realize is actually a great fit.

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6. Pick up literature.

I know; this one’s a little controversial. We should all strive to be more eco-friendly. But our brochures are designed specifically with applicants in mind. Sure, you can find lots of information about schools online, but it can be overwhelming. Our brochures are meant to provide a thoughtful summary of the college as a whole, academic offerings, and student life, as well as an overview of the admission process. Also, know that it’s totally fine to just take a brochure without talking to a representative. You can just tell us you’re browsing.

7. Get on our mailing list.

We want to be able to send you more information, so fill out our inquiry card, let us scan your QR code, or get your information to us however we’re collecting it. Expect us to follow up with you quite a bit via email. We’ll let you know about events, the major you’re interested in, admission details, and more!

8. Finally, leave with some next steps.

Perhaps the weekend after the college fair, take some time to browse through brochures. Hold on to those you want to keep. Recycle the others. Do some more research about anything that excited you. And, of course, reach out to the representative you met if you couldn’t get your initial question answered or if you have any additional questions.

With these eight things in mind, you’re bound to have a fruitful college fair experience. Looking forward to seeing you on the road!

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

It’s easy to assume that college applications are only for students with big awards, club presidencies and standout activities. But here’s something we hope every applicant hears: you don’t need a trophy case to be a compelling candidate.

At USC, we evaluate your application in context. We know that not every school has dozens of clubs, not every student has the time to join them and not every meaningful experience comes with a title. Impact, initiative and authenticity matter just as much as, and often more than, formal recognition.

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We’re Not Counting Titles, We’re Looking for Meaning

When we read your activities list, we’re not just looking for what you did; we’re looking for why it mattered to you and how you showed up. Leadership can look like helping a sibling with homework every night, working a part-time job to support your family or starting a small project that made someone’s life easier.

If you’re deeply involved in one or two activities that mean a lot to you, that’s just as valuable as being a club president with a long list of positions. We’re much more interested in seeing commitment, growth and impact than a résumé built to impress.

Your Environment Matters

We also understand that not all students have access to the same opportunities. Some schools have hundreds of extracurriculars, others might offer just a few. Some students have time for after-school involvement, while others have family responsibilities, jobs or transportation limitations that shape how they spend their time.

That’s why we review applications in context; we consider the resources available at your school and in your community. What matters is how you made the most of what you had access to, not how many formal positions you held.

Leadership Doesn’t Always Mean Being in Charge

There’s a misconception that leadership only counts if you were the president, captain or founder of something. But leadership can be quiet. It can mean mentoring a younger student, organizing a group project when no one else stepped up or helping your classmates feel seen and heard.

If you’ve taken initiative in any part of your life, reflect on that in your application. Whether it happened in a classroom, in your neighborhood or at home, it’s worth sharing. These kinds of moments help us understand your character, not just your résumé.

Use the Application to Tell Your Story

The Activities section of the Common Application gives you limited space, but your essays, short answers and Additional Info section give you more room to provide context. If you’ve been working outside of school, caregiving, translating for your family or navigating responsibilities that shaped your schedule, it’s okay to share that. In fact, we encourage it.

You don’t need to stretch the truth or make things sound bigger than they were. Be honest. Be proud of what you have done and help us understand how those experiences have shaped you.

It’s in the Details

Instead of focusing only on what position you held or how many hours you spent, take a moment to reflect: Why did you include this? What did it mean to you? What did you take away from the experience?

The Activities section doesn’t need to be a list of achievements; it can be a collection of insights. Maybe you learned patience from tutoring younger students. Maybe an activity helped you find your voice, even if it didn’t come with recognition. Maybe you included something because it says more about who you are than any award ever could.

We pay attention to the way you describe your involvement. A thoughtful sentence that shares what something taught you can say more than a list of duties ever will.

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We’re Looking for Perspective, Not Perfection

There is no “ideal” applicant profile. Every year, we admit students who haven’t won a single award, and we’re constantly inspired by their thoughtfulness, resilience and curiosity. You don’t have to lead a club to be a leader. You don’t need to have public recognition to have an impact.

When you apply to USC, we’re not asking you to compete with someone else’s story; we’re asking you to tell your own.

Final Thoughts

If you don’t have awards or leadership titles, you’re not behind. What matters is how you’ve spent your time, what you care about and how you show up in your world. Your actions, values and experiences tell us far more than a title ever could.

So, as you prepare your application, focus less on trying to sound impressive and more on showing us who you are. We can’t wait to read about it!

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

Happy Independence Day!! This 4th of July, we celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States of America.

250 years ago, in the city of Philadelphia, our Founding Fathers met to sign the Declaration of Independence, officially declaring the United States of America as an independent nation.

Many USC alumni have gone on to make great contributions to American history, including Neil Armstrong (Class of 1970), the first man and American to walk on the moon, and Allyson Felix (Class of 2008), the most decorated woman and American in World Olympic Track and Field history.

The USC and surrounding Los Angeles community host and participate in many celebrations to honor the USA. Our USC Trojan Marching Band regularly plays around Southern California at different Independence Day celebrations.

This Independence Day, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, home of the USC Trojan Football Team, will be hosting America250, a large, once in a generation celebration for Americans. This is a block-party type of event with food, music, a fireworks show, and special guest performers. This event will be televised and hosted by Queen Latifah. It’s also a part of a series of other America250 events happening across our nation, including in South Carolina, Kentucky, Wisconsin, and New York, which, when combined, is destined to be the largest Independence Day celebration in USA history.

Please be on the lookout for other Independence Day celebrations in your local communities. We wish everyone a safe and happy Independence Day as we celebrate the freedoms, history, culture, and founding principles of the United States of America.

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

There’s a lot of misinformation about college admissions out there. It can drive us admission counselors crazy (or sometimes make us chuckle) to hear what’s being said. We totally understand that the college admission process is daunting, confusing and even a little scary. We get that you and your students are sometimes just looking for a sense of community that you might find with others through online forums or a “leg up” by listening to someone who claims to know how things are done on social media. But College Confidential, Reddit, so-called Tik Tok “experts”, and the link are not generally credible. So where should you look?

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The most obvious place to start is with a college or university’s admission website, social media, blog and other official means of communication. They will talk about their admission process, let you know what materials are required and provide deadlines and other critical information. Our website has a section called How to Apply, which has straightforward content. We also have pages about preparing for college and resources for parents and families. We post reminders to our social media and have Student Stories from real students about USC life on Instagram. Like some other schools, we have a blog, which we hope you’re subscribed to (hence, why you might be reading this article now). This blog is meant to not only inform you about USC but also share tips about the admission process. Some schools even have podcasts.

Another place to find great information is on reputable websites, including those for the College Board and the National Association for College Admission Counseling (or NACAC). College Board, which administers the SAT, has a great college planning website called Big Future. NACAC has a section with college advice for students and parents, including a free guide, a podcast and resources for creating a college list. At USC, we love AXS Companion, which is provided by a non-profit, has tips for filling out the Common Application and does not use advertising or trackers in any way.

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One of the best sources for all things college admissions is your student’s high school counselor. Often, there will be designated “college nights” and meetings for parents to attend. (We recommend that your student be the one primarily working with their counselor.) These individuals are true experts in the field. Some of them have worked as admission counselors at one or several institutions. They often attend on-campus events at different colleges and universities to deepen their knowledge about particular places. Many go to annual conferences through their regional or the National Association for College Admission Counseling to learn about the latest trends in the admission profession. Some have access to software or have extensive experience that can help students understand how they might fare in a college’s admission process based upon previous applicants from the school. High school counselors are our friends and partners in the admission process. Listen to them. Take their advice. Even if they sometimes have to share hard truths.

Of course, another way to learn about a school’s admission process is to go straight to the source—to someone at that institution. Your students can connect with their admission counselor in person at college fairs or high school visits. They can always email or call their admission counselors. We have a nifty Find My Counselor tool for them to do just that. Some colleges and universities even have ways to connect directly with student ambassadors. While our “central” admission office doesn’t offer this feature, several of our academic departments do. Connect with these contacts and ask questions!

I know it’s tempting to go on an online forum, where you can share your student’s “stats” to “chance them”. (Do you think my son will get in with a 4.2 GPA, 1510 SAT, and college essay about his service work in Peru?) Or to ask others what might be behind an email that your student received. (Does that college really mean it when they say they won’t accept new letters of recommendation with my child’s appeal?) But you risk getting incorrect answers that can only make you and your student more confused and stressed. So, follow unofficial advice at your own peril. Again, you have so many great resources at your disposal, including us admission counselors. Reach out if you need to!

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

One of the many things that makes USC unique is how accessible research can be, even as an undergraduate. Whether you’re interested in biology, artificial intelligence, film, history, public policy, or just about anything else, there are countless ways to get involved. USC is home to hundreds of research centers and institutes, and many students start working with faculty mentors as early as their first year. There are several programs that provide funding so students can spend less time worrying about finances and more time exploring questions they’re passionate about.

Two of the biggest opportunities for Dornsife students are SOAR (Student Opportunities for Academic Research) and SURF (Summer Undergraduate Research Fund). (Know that there are funding opportunities like this in just about every school.) SOAR supports students during the academic year, whether they’re assisting a faculty member with an existing project or pursuing original research of their own. SURF offers similar support during the summer, giving students the chance to focus on a research project full-time when classes aren’t in session. Both programs help make research more accessible by providing funding and mentorship, allowing students to turn ideas from the classroom into real-world projects. USC also offers additional funding through programs like Undergraduate Research Fellowships, which provide stipends for student researchers across disciplines.

What’s especially exciting is the range of projects students can pursue. If you’re interested in the sciences, you might find yourself working in a lab at Keck Medicine, contributing to research on topics like cancer, neuroscience, or aging. USC also offers specialized summer research programs through schools like the Viterbi School of Engineering and research institutes across campus, giving students hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies and scientific discovery.

Research at USC isn’t limited to labs, though. Humanities and social science students have just as many opportunities to dive into topics they’re passionate about. You might analyze historical documents in USC’s archives, work with a professor studying public policy or urban development, or conduct community-based research throughout Los Angeles. Because USC is located in the heart of LA, the city often becomes an extension of the classroom and research space. Students regularly engage with local communities and museums while exploring questions about history, culture, politics, and society. For those interested in more specialized opportunities, resources like the USC Shoah Foundation’s Visual History Archive offer access to one-of-a-kind collections used by researchers around the world.

One of my favorite things about research at USC is that it often extends beyond campus. Thanks to USC’s location in Los Angeles, students can connect their research to museums, nonprofits, hospitals, community organizations, entertainment companies, and public institutions throughout the city. Regardless of what major you pursue, research becomes a way to engage directly with Los Angeles while building skills that will stay with you long after graduation.

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

As a parent, you are likely looking for any way that you can help your student through the college application process. While some help is always appreciated, there are also many steps in this process that are meant to give the students more autonomy and strengthen their sense of responsibility. When looking at ways to help your student, here are some examples of what not to do, and what you can do to help instead:

• Don’t email admission counselors on behalf of your students.

• Instead: empower your students to email their admission counselors on their own when they have questions about the application process. As a reminder, we do not track or consider demonstrated interest at USC.

• Don’t assume that the application process is the same for all schools.

• Instead: reference the resources we provide to make sure that you and your student have all of the correct information about USC’s application process.

• Don’t try to push your students into a path they are not interested in.

• Instead: let them take the lead on their interests and let them explore all of the different opportunities they have access to.

• Don’t be unclear with your student about finances.

• Instead: have honest conversations about what is best for your family and your student and consider the different financial resources available to you through USC’s Financial Aid Office.

• Don’t emphasize prestige chasing.

• Instead: talk to your student about the qualities that are most important to them in an institution and find the best fits for them.

• Don’t ask the questions at an information session or college fair.

• Instead: let your student take the lead. They should be the ones engaging with counselors at admission events and seeking out the information they need.

• Don’t let your opinions have too much weight in their decisions.

• Instead: offer your insights, but understand that this is a big decision for them, and they likely have a lot of great ideas about what they want their future to look like.

Trust that you’ve prepared your student to navigate this process on their own and let them go down the path they are meant to take. They will end up where they are supposed to, so be open-minded when considering different options surrounding their education.

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

Nestled between the 10 and the 101 (iykyk) is Koreatown, one of Los Angeles’ most vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods, located just about 20 minutes north of campus. Home to the largest Korean population outside of South Korea, Koreatown has become a hub for food, nightlife, small businesses, and community in the heart of LA.

One of my favorite things about being so close to Koreatown is how accessible it is. Whether you take the Metro, hop on a bus, drive over, or even walk if you are feeling ambitious, it is an easy way to explore a completely different side of Los Angeles beyond campus.

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For USC students, Koreatown is one of those neighborhoods that quickly becomes part of your routine. Whether you are looking for a late-night meal after studying, a new coffee shop to tackle homework in, karaoke with friends, or simply somewhere to explore off campus, Koreatown always has something going on.

Food is easily one of the biggest reasons people fall in love with the neighborhood. A warm meal at BCD Tofu House has become a comfort spot for many Angelenos, especially during late nights. Small mom-and-pop restaurants line nearly every block, and that is really where Koreatown shines. Spots like The Potato Sack have built loyal followings, myself included, for their breakfast burritos, while dessert cafés and bakeries continue to make the neighborhood feel exciting and constantly evolving. Koreatown’s food scene reflects the cultures and communities that have shaped Los Angeles over generations.

Beyond the food, part of the fun of Koreatown is simply wandering through it. Its countless strip malls are packed with restaurants, bakeries, skincare shops, and cafés, and some of the best places are the ones you discover by accident. I have stumbled upon dozens of coffee shops while searching for the perfect study spot, and the beauty is that each café has its own vibe. Some are perfect for studying quietly for hours, while others feel more social and energetic late into the evening.

As you immerse yourself in the community you will join at USC, take in all that Los Angeles has to offer, including the neighborhoods just up the block from campus.

What makes Koreatown special is not just the food or coffee shops, but the feeling of energy and community that exists within it. It is the kind of place where a random stop can turn into your new favorite restaurant, café, or hangout spot. Koreatown feels alive at almost every hour of the day, and that energy is part of what makes it such a memorable part of Los Angeles.

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

Hi! My name is Aviva. I’m a rising Junior and I am studying Cognitive Science at USC Dornsife with a minor in Cinematic Arts at the School of Cinematic Arts… that is… only as of a couple months ago. To my friends I’ve been formerly known as Miss Undeclared. So, I’m here to tell you that declaring your major at the start of Freshman year and never changing it is propaganda you DO NOT need to fall for.

I started my time at USC as an English major, with the intent to explore other options as much as I could. After a single semester in that major and one English class, I switched my major to Undeclared Humanities so I could meet with an advisor familiar with more than one department.

And, an Undeclared Humanities “major” I remained for over a year. I took classes in the USC Marshall School of Business, the Annenberg School of Communication and Journalism, the School of Cinematic Arts, and even the Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy. I took many classes in Dornsife, our liberal arts school, as well. I was able to satisfy General Education and other requirements. In addition. I gained elective credits thanks to my explorative agenda. By the time my sophomore year reached its end, I had satisfied all of my GE credits altogether. Only issue: still no major decided.

However, at that point, I had narrowed things down. Cognitive Science, Psychology, Communication, Public Relations and Advertising, or Cinema and Media Studies. Transferring within Dornsife would be simple, but I had to think ahead for SCA, which required an application with essays and letters of recommendation back in February of that year. Unfortunately, it was May, and the deadline had already passed.

So how did I decide my major? I set up many advising meetings, had extensive conversations with family and friends and sat in my thoughts for hours. However, the decision ultimately came when I was able to fully evaluate my experience at USC up until that point and what I wanted it to look like going forward. It was taking what I knew about the classes I taken and enjoyed or didn’t enjoy that brought me to my final decision.

So, what is my advice? To be honest, there’s not any one way to go about discovering your passions and ambitions. After all, the main reason I was undeclared for so long was that I wanted to set myself up to succeed in life beyond college and was afraid to commit to a pathway I’d later regret.

So, the first thing I can recommend is to EXPLORE! USC allows students to take courses in different schools, which I was not even aware of when I applied. It means that you can and should take as many classes as you want in any subject that piques your interest. As a graduate of a very small private high school, I never really got to explore the many niche subjects that had always interested me, but I have since being here. And even the classes that won’t ultimately count for my major are ones I am glad to have taken and learned more about. Because, if not for anything else, isn’t learning diverse things about the world the purpose of higher education?

Second, TRUST YOURSELF! It took me a long time to realize it, but your college major is not a make or break for the rest of your life. Trust your gut. You can always take advantage of a minor, elective classes or even student organizations to get involved in other subjects that interest you outside of your major. Just because I decided to major in Cognitive Science does not mean I plan to limit myself to learning outside of that topic–and that’s why I not only am minoring in the School of Cinematic Arts but also am part of a sustainability fellowship through USC Marshall. Your major doesn’t have to be entirely career-oriented; and, even if it is, it’s equally important that the classes you take in college are ones that you genuinely enjoy.

Lastly, know that YOU ARE NOT ALONE. As an overall indecisive person, the most intimidating part about choosing a major was feeling that I couldn’t possibly decide on my own. Throughout my time as an undeclared student, I learned that I had plenty of support around me: academic advisors, professors, family, colleagues, friends, and peers. One of the biggest blessings about being at USC is that our student body is incredibly diverse, not just in background but also in passion. Being surrounded by future doctors, engineers, politicians, filmmakers and more has been an incredible source of inspiration in discovering my own passions. Ask the questions you have, send your email or set up that meeting. You’re not the first person to seek guidance and certainly will not be the last.

Ultimately, your USC experience is what you make of it. Don’t be ashamed of not knowing what you want. Nobody knows. They’re also trying to figure it out. So, take pride in what you learn in every single class, because, who knows, maybe you’ll actually learn more about yourself than you would’ve imagined.

Written by: Aviva Clauer, class of 2027

Although it may be a bit too early to worry about college, it’s definitely not too early for middle school students to start setting themselves up for success! A student’s middle school years provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about themselves and develop important skills for their future. It’s also a great time for parents to become involved in their child’s growth by learning how to best support them. If you are a middle school student or parent of one already thinking about future college success, read along for some helpful advice!

1. Establish Good Habits

Students: Your personal and study habits are essential for your success. Developing good personal habits will support your overall well-being and help you accomplish your goals. This includes getting enough sleep to stay focused, eating nutritious food to support your growth and development, and learning to manage your emotions to maintain good mental health. Building self-discipline will also help you develop strong study habits that contribute to academic success. Every student is different, so it’s important to explore and understand what works best for you. For example, you might use an agenda or Google Calendar to stay organized, put away your phone to help minimize distractions while studying, or use flashcards to prepare for exams. There are many ways to develop effective study habits, and many of you may already be practicing them. If your current habits are working well, keep them up. If they’re not, consider exploring different methods to improve them.

Parents: As your child works on developing good habits, this is an opportunity for you to determine how best to support them. Being aware of their habits at home, as well as their responsibilities and performance at school, can help you decide whether you need to be more or less involved. They may already be doing well and simply need your continued encouragement. If they are struggling in certain areas, you can offer your guidance and work together to find ways to improve them.

2. Explore Your Interests

Students: As a middle school student, you may already know exactly what your interests are, or you may still be discovering them. Either is perfectly fine! Exploring your interests helps you learn more about yourself, identify your passions, and consider what you might want to pursue in the future. For example, if you have been playing and enjoying soccer since you were 5 years old, you may want to continue pursuing it. Or you may never have played volleyball but have always been curious about it and decide to join a team. Whether your interests are in sports, the arts, science, foreign languages, or something else, it’s important to stay open-minded and seek opportunities that help develop your character and passions.

Parents: You can support your child’s involvement by showing interest in their involvement and offering encouragement. Asking about their music class, attending their baseball game, or demonstrating support in other ways can keep them motivated. Exposing them to new hobbies, activities, and fields is another great way to help them discover new interests, especially if they’re still exploring. Being aware of their personality and what excites them is another great way to nurture their curiosity and support the growth of their interests.

3. Find Community

Students: Learning to build relationships and surrounding yourself by supportive people can have a great impact on your success. Having friends who you can trust and be yourself around makes your personal growth journey more rewarding and encouraging when facing challenges. You can build these relationships not only with classmates but also with teachers, teammates, church members, and in any other community you are engaged in.

Parents: One of the best ways to help your child is by being someone they can always rely on. Be their friend, mentor, and biggest advocate!

Most importantly, middle school is meant to be enjoyed! Make the most out of your middle school years and the opportunities they bring.

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

Applying to college is a journey. It comes with excitement, reflection, and maybe a few late-night thoughts like, “How do I make sure USC knows I really want to be there?”

If you’re applying from outside the United States, you might also be wondering how this compares to what you’re used to. Maybe you’ve written something like a U.K. personal statement, focused mostly on your academic interests.

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The USC Short Answer is a bit different.

In 250 words, you’re telling us why USC is the right place for you, not just academically, but as a place where you’ll grow and explore. Think of it as a more flexible, slightly more U.S.-style version of a personal statement. Yes, we care about why you love your subject, but we also want to understand why USC and how you see yourself here as a whole person.

Why do you love history? And why would USC be a great place for you to pursue that interest, inside and outside the classroom?

We read this response to understand how USC fits into your future. What excites you about being part of this community? What opportunities do you see yourself engaging with? This is not about listing classes or faculty. It’s about showing how USC helps you grow.

One important note. We know rankings influence where students apply. But we are not looking for students who want USC only because of its ranking. We’re looking for students who genuinely want to be here, who feel excited when they picture themselves at USC. That enthusiasm matters.

Do Your Research

We’re not looking for general knowledge about USC. We want to know how you see yourself here.

If you’re applying internationally, this matters even more. USC might feel far away, but your response should show it’s a deliberate choice.

Explore USC’s website. Think beyond academics. Consider student life, opportunities, and Los Angeles itself. What specifically draws you in?

Make it personal. Not something that could be sent anywhere.

Show Us Your Academic Fit

Whether you know your major or are still exploring, show how USC supports your interests.

If you come from A-Levels, IB, CBSE, or another system, you’re likely used to focusing deeply on subjects. That’s a strength. Tell us what excites you, then explain how USC will help you build on that.

You don’t need to name specific classes. Focus on opportunities and growth.

Also keep in mind that your application is reviewed by admission counselors, not faculty. We do not want highly technical explanations. If you’re interested in something complex, focus on why it excites you, not on explaining it in expert detail. Write clearly for an educated but general audience.

Think Beyond Academics

USC is not just about coursework. It’s about community and experience.

Ask yourself:

• What kind of experiences do you want?

• What communities do you want to join?

• How might studying in Los Angeles shape your goals?

We don’t expect perfect answers. We just want to understand how you see USC fitting into your life.

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Think About the Bigger Picture

Your time at USC will shape what comes next.

How will it help you reach your goals? What kind of student do you want to be? What do you hope to take away from the experience?

For international students, this is also a chance to reflect on how studying in a new country might shape your perspective.

Final Thoughts

As you write:

• Be clear about why USC fits you.

• Show how you’ll engage academically and beyond.

• Focus on what genuinely excites you.

You don’t need to cover everything. Choose a few meaningful ideas and develop them well.

Most importantly, be yourself. Help us picture you at USC, not just in a classroom, but as part of a community.

We’re excited to read your response

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

Hi everyone! My name is Pragya Bhatt, a current USC undergraduate student. Four years ago, I was in the same position many of you might be in right now: late nights, endless doomscrolling, too many tabs open, and opinions coming from just about everyone around me who wanted to chime in. College applications were definitely stressful, and though I knew there was a wealth of information out there, it took time (and a lot of trial and error) to figure out how to actually use that information in a way that felt meaningful for my own journey. Now, looking back, I’ve realized that true value came from learning how to use information intentionally. Having applied to around 30 universities for 4 different majors, here are some of the biggest takeaways from my application process:

1. Find information that is related to your own circumstances

I quickly realized how easy it is to get lost in rankings and the “top 10” lists that come up with any quick Google search. But my biggest progress came when I started doing specific research that connected to my own circumstances. I built myself a formula: Fact → Link → Meaning. For every fact I found online, I pushed myself to link it back to my own interests and what it would mean for my academic journey.

For example, when I learned that USC has an open course policy, I realized that this would allow me to explore all my academic interests: Theatre, Communication, Psychology, and Politics. That mattered to me because I knew that I didn’t want an education that forced me into one box. Anyone can find the same facts, but it’s how you personalize them that matters.

Beyond this framework, I also found a lot of value in looking past just university homepages. I explored department-specific sites, reviewed organizations’ Instagram pages, browsed class schedules, and even built rough course plans for each school I was considering. I read student blogs (like this one) to understand what the university student experience actually feels like. There’s so much more depth in these kinds of sources than in just the facts, figures, and lists you see at first glance.

At the end of the day, you have access to an incredible amount of information and perspectives due to the internet. It all comes down to how you use it.

2. Talk to people for insights that you cannot google

One of the most valuable things I did during my application process was what I found the most intimidating: reaching out to people. This was honestly my biggest fear during the application process – I remember overthinking every email, wondering if I was saying the “right” thing or if I was being a bother.

Now that I’m on the other side, I’ve realized that people genuinely want to help. Whether it’s your admissions counselor, a student you find through a blog or LinkedIn, or an alum from your high school, they were all in your shoes not long ago and are often excited to pay that support forward.

When I spoke to current students, I asked questions that I couldn’t find answers online like: What does a typical day look like? What surprised you most when you got here? What have you found to be the biggest challenges you have learned from during your time? These answers showed me a lens of each program that I would never have understood otherwise.

At the end of the day, research gives you important information, but conversations give you perspective. Combining the two allows you to make decisions (and write applications) that feel much more personalized to yourself.

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3. Treat your applications like a big project

My biggest strength when it came to completing my college applications was treating it as a large multi-level project. I applied to over 24 universities, including some where I completed multiple rounds of self-tapes, auditions, interviews, and portfolios. Very quickly, I realized that with so many moving parts, I would need to stay organized and prepared.

I began by breaking the process into phases. Instead of trying to do everything at once, I focused only on what needed my attention at each stage. I started early during my junior year of high school, gathering as much information as I could about each school. Next, I built a large excel, tracking locations, majors, programs, pros and cons, requirements, and my Fact → Link → Meaning framework for processing information. From there, I moved into writing. I went through over 30 drafts of my Common Application essay alone, alongside supplemental essays and audition preparation. Then came filming, interviews, and finally submission. When I was researching schools, I wasn’t stressed about essays yet.

I also leaned heavily on my organizational tools. My color-coded Excel sheet was bookmarked, and my Notion database tracking the status of each application stayed open almost constantly. As someone who naturally leans Type A, having everything laid out in one place made the entire process feel far less chaotic.

I also worked backwards from my deadlines. Instead of telling myself, “The USC application is due January 15th,” I set earlier, personal deadlines of when I wanted a first draft essay done, when I would revise, and when I would finalize. This gave me buffer room, and I found that by breaking it up, I was able to stay focused and on track in a process where a lot of decisions ultimately felt out of my control.

4. Tours and Information Sessions

As an international student, one of the things I wanted most during my application process was to actually see the campuses I was applying to. I knew that no amount of reading and research could fully replace the feeling of being on the campus. I was lucky enough to visit a few universities in person, including a self-guided tour at USC. Those experiences gave me a completely different perspective. There was something about walking around campus and seeing how students interact that helped me imagine myself at each school in a way that a website just could not.

That said, I also know that visiting in person isn’t always possible, especially for my fellow international students. Thus, there are a variety of other avenues: virtual tours and information sessions, which can be just as valuable if you use them intentionally. Many universities offer really detailed virtual experiences, along with live zoom sessions where you can hear directly from admissions officers and current students.

What makes sessions especially helpful is that you’re getting perspectives straight from the source. You’re hearing people tell their own stories while having the opportunity to interact with them in real-time by asking any questions you may have.

Whether it’s in person or online, taking the time to engage with tours and info sessions can help you move beyond just knowing about a school to actually understanding what it might feel like to be there.

As you embark on your college application journey, I hope some of these tips help make the process feel a little more organized and less overwhelming. There is so much information out there, and it can feel like you need to take all of it in at once. However, please just remember that the real skill is learning how to filter and use it in a way that actually serves you. I hope you also remember that what matters most throughout this entire process is staying true to yourself and your own path. Whatever your journey looks like from here, we wish you all the best! Fight On!

_{Posing in front of Tommy Trojan at Transfer Orientation 07/18/25}

Hi! My name is Nora Rakoci and I am a 23-year-old rising senior studying journalism at USC’s Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism.

In 2022, I was rejected from the University of Southern California.

USC was my dream school from the moment I saw Trojan volleyball player Victoria Garrick-Browne’s TedX talk on athlete mental health. At the time, I too was a dedicated athlete struggling with my mental health. I wanted to talk about it. I wanted to be like Victoria.

But I didn’t do well in high school. Sophomore year, I suffered a concussion that knocked me off my feet for basically the whole second semester. Junior year, I struggled with depression and anxiety and went on medical leave for school anxiety/school refusal. Although I got straight As doing online school during COVID my senior year, I barely passed junior year and racked up a hefty number of absences. All that to say: my transcript sucked.

After high school I took a gap year to recuperate and take care of my mental health. I dreamed of LA. I dreamed of the sunshine and the palm trees (I’m from Chicago and even after a year in LA, the novelty of palm trees, the mountains and the ocean is yet to wear off for me). I always loved storytelling, and USC has a unique major called narrative studies that seemed perfect for me.

_{Taken 4/16/26 during one of my visits to Venice Beach. Still insane to me that you can see the mountains and the ocean at the same time.}

So as my gap year came to a close, I decided to apply.

A few months later the decision email came in: “I am sorry to say that we are unable to offer you a space in this year’s incoming class.”

I wasn’t too surprised. I knew my dream school was a bit of a long shot when life had hit me so hard during high school.

Still, I was determined to go to USC. So, I made a plan.

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I enrolled at my local community college in Palatine, Illinois. Over the next three years, I worked towards my associate’s degree, frequently consulting USC’s transfer requirements to make sure I was on the right track and using my time and money efficiently.

“Successful applicants present at least one year of rigorous, full-time academic coursework, with strong grades” –straight from the transfer website– became my mantra. Life didn’t slow down just because I had a plan, so I ended up having to drop out for a semester. I even had a couple of Ws on my transcript. But I was going to get that one year no matter what it took!

Finally, from fall 2024 to spring 2025, I was a full-time student taking “rigorous coursework” for two semesters straight. I graduated in May 2025 from Harper College with my associates in arts.

Just a few months earlier I re-applied to USC, this time as a journalism major– I had taken an Intro to Journalism course with adjunct professor Maham Khan at Harper and fell in love with reporting.

On May 23rd, I received the long-awaited decision email!

Sike. It was a request for Spring Grades from the admissions office.

I submitted my spring transcript momentarily and awaited the final decision with bated breath.

On June 5, 2025, I got into my dream school. I was so excited; I cried. I called my mom into my room to share the news (I wanted to be rejected in private if things turned out that way) and she cried too.

_{My cat, Saint, reppin’ the SC merch}

Now I work as a Transfer Ambassador, meeting with prospective transfer students to help them follow their dreams of becoming a Trojan! Here are the three main things I learned in my first year as a transfer student at USC:

1. Don’t let anyone else write your application for you. Not AI, not your mom, no one. Proofreading is fine, but your story is yours to tell. That’s why it’s so special! I truly believe my application stood out because I was honest about my struggles and reflected my personality as best as I could in my answers.

2. Life is not a race. As a transfer student, you may feel like you’re the odd one out. If you’re like me, you might be older than most of your classmates (I turned 23 my junior year when most of my classmates were turning 20!). None of that matters! In fact, this might be the very reason you were accepted! I frequently meet with “unconventional” prospective transfer students– parents, veterans, even grandparents. Accept that you are living your life for you, at your own pace, and there is no right or wrong timeline.

3. Get involved! You won’t make any friends sitting in your apartment all day. I felt kind of silly going to all of the welcome week activities basically surrounded by freshmen– but it was a fun way to kickstart the year and get to know the campus. Squeeze USC of all the resources it has to offer. There is a club for everyone. If you can’t find one you like, start it!

_{Me and a new friend during a back-to-school event in Alumni Park, 9/9/25}

_{Galen Center 08/29/25. Going to volleyball games (and eventually reporting on them) was a great way to get involved early in the school year.}

Bonus knowledge: I cannot recommend enough going in-person to the summer transfer orientation. You will be surrounded by other transfer students just like you, and it’s a great initiation to your new life as a Trojan!

Most of all, don’t be afraid to ask questions. You can find your Admission Counselor’s contact info on our website here. They’d be happy to help answer any questions!

There’s something magical about graduation season.

Maybe it’s the sea of cardinal and gold. Maybe it’s the sound of families cheering just a little too loudly when they hear a familiar name called. Maybe it’s watching students hug professors, roommates, mentors, and parents all in the same five-minute span. Or maybe it’s simply this: graduation reminds us how quickly life changes.

Here in the admission office at USC, graduation season feels especially emotional because we get to celebrate two groups at once.

First, to our incoming Trojans, the high school seniors who are currently counting down the days until summer freedom officially begins, congratulations! You did it. After years of early mornings, late-night homework sessions, group projects you definitely carried, AP exams, college applications, and checking your portals approximately 400 times a day… you made it to the finish line.

And now? A brand-new chapter is waiting for you in Los Angeles.

Some of you already have your roommate picked out. Some of you have spent hours planning your class schedule. Some of you are still trying to figure out what “college packing essentials” actually means. (Spoiler: yes, you probably need shower shoes.)

No matter where you are in the process, this summer is special. It’s the last summer before everything changes in the best possible way. Savor the graduation parties. Take the family photos, even if they feel cheesy. Stay out a little too late with your friends. Say yes to the beach trip. These are the moments you’ll remember years from now when someone asks, “What was the summer before college like?”

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And to our graduating USC seniors: congratulations doesn’t even feel like a big enough phrase.

Four years ago, many of you were the nervous high school students reading blogs like this one, wondering if you’d find your people, your passion, or your place on campus. Then somewhere between move-in day and now, USC became home.

You built lives here.

You found your favorite study spot. Your go-to coffee order. Your campus job. Your lifelong friends. Maybe even the major you swore you’d never choose as a freshman.

You experienced football game days at the Coliseum, stressful finals weeks at Leavey, random celebrity sightings around LA, and those moments walking through campus when the sunset hits just right and you think, “Wow. I really go here.”

And now suddenly, somehow, you’ve graduated.

One of my favorite parts of this season is watching graduating seniors reconnect with the people who helped them get here. Former tour guides hugging professors. Students taking photos with the same friends they met during Welcome Week. Families standing proudly outside of Bovard holding flowers and trying not to cry before the ceremony even starts.

It’s a reminder that college isn’t just about earning a degree. It’s about becoming someone new while still holding onto the person you’ve always been.

That’s why graduation season feels emotional for all of us in admission, too.

We remember many of our seniors from the very beginning: reading their applications, meeting them at high schools, answering their nervous emails, hearing about their dreams long before they stepped onto campus. Seeing them walk across the graduation stage feels full-circle in the best way.

And for our incoming students, know this: your story is just beginning.

A few years from now, you’ll blink and somehow be the one wearing the cap and gown, wondering where the time went.

So wherever you are this graduation season… finishing high school, graduating college, supporting a loved one, or simply reflecting on your own journey, take a moment to pause and appreciate how far you’ve come.

Big transitions can feel exciting and bittersweet at the same time. That’s usually a sign that something mattered deeply.

To the Class of 2026 at USC: thank you for leaving your mark on this university.

To the future Trojans joining us this fall: we cannot wait to welcome you home.

And to everyone celebrating this season: congratulations, graduates. The next chapter is waiting for you. Fight on!

Written by: Jessie Beeman, Assistant Director – Office of Undergraduate Admission

One of the first things people told me about USC was the Trojan Family. I did not understand what it was until I experienced firsthand—the true warmth and generosity of USC alumni through the countless phone calls and 30-minute chats I’ve had about my future career, school and life. After almost four years here, I’ve learned that the alumni network is one of the school’s best kept secrets.

Hi everyone! My name is Fay Li, and I’m a current senior studying Economics/Mathematics with a minor in Computer Science. In this blog, I want to share with you one of the most impactful parts of my experience at USC, which is learning how to connect with alumni. I genuinely believe that networking made a huge difference in helping me secure my upcoming summer internship at EY. It was a foreign concept to me at first, but I’ve realized that USC is uniquely special because the alumni community is incredibly passionate about helping current students. The “Trojan Family” isn’t just something we say; it’s a real network that shows up for you, if you know how to access it.

Tools I Used to Connect with Alumni

One of the easiest ways to start building connections is through LinkedIn, where over the past few years I’ve in total cold messaged upwards of 50+ alumni with short but thoughtful requests asking for a quick 30-minute chat. My process usually began by searching for the specific company I was interested in, filtering by education to only show USC alumni, looking through the various profiles that came up, and finding someone with similar majors, club involvements, or backgrounds. Then, I’d tailor my message to reflect those shared experiences. I expected low response rates, because to them I am just a stranger reaching out; but, maybe not so surprisingly, many enthusiastically replied simply because I was a fellow Trojan.

USC also has the Trojan Network, which is a platform designed specifically for connecting students with alumni who are open to offering advice or mentorship in career or life in general. I’ve used it to reach out to professionals in fields I was interested in and have found roles that I wasn’t previously aware of. It’s a great starting point because everyone who is on the platform is already there with the intention of helping out current students.

Another big resource has been employer info sessions that USC’s Career Center hosts, as well as club events. In my student organization, we’ve invited alumni from different consulting companies to come speak to us about their work and paths after graduation. These smaller, more personal events often feel conversational rather than like presentations. Many of these speakers take time to come onto campus after their workdays to share their experiences with us because they genuinely want to give back to USC students. Staying engaged during the talks and asking thoughtful questions afterward has helped me build rapport with the panelists and has helped spark meaningful conversations. In my experiences, many of them stayed behind after the event to answer more specific personal questions and have been more than willing to exchange contact information to continue our conversation later.

My Experience with Networking

Overall, my experience has been overwhelmingly positive. I’ve learned so much, from the day-to-day life of an alum’s industry, to their career paths, to insider recruiting advice. Some of my most insightful conversations came from coffee chats where alumni openly shared their stories and lessons they wished they had known earlier. Talking to them helped remind me that behind the impressive job titles, they’re just people who genuinely want to help someone walking a path they’d been on before.

I’ve also been fortunate to receive referrals to several companies from the alumni I spoke to. But, more importantly, the advice has been the most valuable. Talking to people who have gone through this stage of life helped me feel grounded and less anxious about figuring everything out immediately. These chats have all reminded me that everyone’s career journeys are different and are not linear. It’s completely okay to grow and explore at your own pace.

USC alumni want to help USC students far more than they might expect, and reaching out has been one of the most rewarding parts of my college and career journey. If a student is even a little bit curious about an industry, company, or career path, I promise you that someone is out there excited to talk to a fellow Trojan.

Good luck, and Fight on!

Written by: Fay Li, Class of 2026

The USC Admission team would like to highlight an important resource available to students once you arrive at USC: The USC Career Center.

The USC Career Center is located at the USC Student Union 110, 3601 Trousdale Pkwy and is USC student’s one stop shop for student career services.

The Career Center at USC hosts many in-person events for students to attend throughout the summer and academic year. The most popular event is the USC Fall and Spring Career Fair, where employers recruit USC students for full time, part time, and internship opportunities. The Center also hosts the USC On-Campus Fall and Spring Student Job Fairs which allow USC students the opportunity to get on-campus work study job positions.

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No matter if it’s during summer or the academic year, the USC Career Center is open anytime for USC students and staff to come in and receive professional headshots at their self-service headshot booth. There are also Trojan Talks that take place at the USC Career Center which connects USC students to various employers or other external resources. There are also drop-in advising appointments at the USC Career Center where students can meet in-person with career advisors to ask career-related questions, map out a career plan, get connected with career resources, resume tailoring workshop, and interview prep as well.

The USC Career Center has many online tools available for students that provide various career resources, including Handshake, The Trojan Network, Candid Career+, and many more. All of these platforms are found on this weblink at the end of this page.

We highly recommend following their social media accounts and checking out their Instagram/TikTok: @usccareercenter and their website to view all of the resources and events that were highlighted above in this article. Please reach out to the USC Career Center at (213) 740-9111, if you have any further questions! Your trip to the Career Center or their website could be the step away from you securing your next internship or job!

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

One of the bittersweet perks of working in admission is realizing that every spring, some of our favorite campus tour guides, the ones who know every shortcut, fun fact, and hidden study spot, are getting ready to graduate.

So, I did what any curious admission counselor would do: I grabbed my notebook, wandered around campus, and asked a simple question:

“What has been your favorite part of USC?”

Here’s what they said, and fair warning: you may feel very excited (and slightly emotional) about becoming a Trojan by the end.

“Meeting all of my best friends!”

– Pragya, Class of 2027, Communication

“My favorite memory is joining TroyPhilippines and finding a community of people that I am very comfortable around.”

– Davin, Class of 2028, Occupational Therapy

“Welcome week when I first entered the USC village apartments in McClintock. There was a social gathering that took place, and it was an amazing journey because nobody knew what was going on nor did we know what we were doing. We were all lost, having fun, and making new friends”

– Uleses, Class of 2029, Psychology

USC is a big school, but it never feels that way once you find your people. If you hear us talk about the Trojan Family, this is what we mean. It’s late-night talks, group chats that never stop buzzing, and friends who show up for you, on your best days and your hardest ones.

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“My best USC memory is going to the beach in Malibu after my friends and I finished our first semester finals. It was a really nice way to end the semester.”

– Carter, Class of 2029, Business Administration

USC is a city full of opportunities; it doesn’t just sit in Los Angeles; it’s connected to it. Internships, creative projects, food adventures, and unexpected discoveries are all part of the experience.

“Tailgating!”

– Bianca, Class of 2029, Pharmacology and Drug Development

“Any USC football gameday!”

– Michael, Class of 2028, Journalism

“This past fall I attended my last USC football game at a student. The feeling of watching the halftime show, fireworks, and spending time with my good friends was something I will never forget. Especially since we beat the Bruins, Fight On!”

– Isabel, Class of 2026, History

There is nothing like a USC football game. The energy, the traditions, everyone dressed in cardinal and gold, it’s unreal. From tailgates to Traveler galloping across the field, game days are a core memory waiting to happen, even if you don’t know a single rule of football when you arrive.

One last thought from me (your admission counselor)

Every year, I’m reminded that USC isn’t defined by rankings, buildings, or even traditions, it’s defined by the people who pass through it and leave their mark.

Soon, these students will become alumni, carrying their USC memories into whatever comes next. And someday, we hope you’ll be standing where they stood, looking back and realizing how much this place shaped you.

Until then, keep dreaming, keep asking questions, and keep imagining your own favorite USC memory.

Written by: Jessie Beeman, Assistant Director – Office of Undergraduate Admission

As a student, most of my mornings and afternoons are spent in the classroom. When my classes end depends on the semester; last semester, my last classes ended at 6:00pm or 6:30pm every day, but, during my sophomore year, most of my classes were done around 3:00pm or 4:00pm. So how would I spend the rest of my day?

Most of my club meetings are at 6:00pm or 7:00pm—which usually leaves me with a couple of hours between my last class and my next commitment. During that time, I like to go to the library to get some work done. My favorite libraries on campus are the Library for International and Public Affairs, the Architecture Library and the Science and Engineering Library. Even though they can be busy (since many students have finished classes), there are still plenty of seats available. I personally like studying indoors, which is why I tend to stick to libraries; however, there are also many outdoor spaces—which is a great way to take advantage of Los Angeles’ amazing weather. Some of the more popular outdoor spaces include the SCA courtyard next to the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, the TCC courtyard area and the area outside Café Annenberg.

Around 7:00pm is when my club meetings start. I’m currently involved in the USC Racing team, so I head over to the Baum Family Maker Space—which is open to all Viterbi students to use—as that’s where most of the engineering design teams meet. I’m here around three to four times a week, working on various projects. One week, I might be manufacturing bushings; another week, I’ll be assembling the car or working on CAD drawings. I’m usually there until 9:00pm, after which I’ll head home to eat dinner.

I’m also the Vice President for the Asian American Tutorial Project (AATP), a volunteering organization. Every Wednesday from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm, we have our general member meeting, where we bond with other volunteers, followed by our executive board meeting. On Fridays, after my classes, our organization goes to Chinatown to tutor students after school! I love volunteering with kids, so it’s an amazing opportunity to give back to my community and engage in something meaningful. Lastly, I’m also the Vice President of Academic Affairs at the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE). Every month we host general meetings, where we connect with other chemical engineering students, hear from ChemE alumni and organize career fair preparation workshops that include resume reviews and general advice.

Of course, this is just my personal experience. It might differ from that of my friends or my classmates. For example, my friend Lamiya, a fourth-year student majoring in Pharmacology and Drug Development, has had a very different experience. She is the Vice President of the Pre-Pharmacy Society (PPS), an organization that helps prepare students for careers in pharmacy! She attends meetings where she learns more about different pharmacy fields from guest speakers and engages in socials to get to know her peers better and build a “pharmily” in PPS (pun intended). She also works as a part-time pharmacy technician at the CVS near Gateway. This experience gives her a glimpse into a potential career and helps her see how classroom knowledge can be applied in the real world. She gains experience working with patients, learning about medications, and engaging with the community.

But don’t worry! I still make time for non-academic activities. Since I live in a house with six other housemates, we sometimes cook meals together! If we’re lazy, we’ll have an impromptu dinner and usually go to Koreatown for Surawon, a Korean tofu house, or Pho N Mor, which is right next to Gateway Apartments. I have a huge sweet tooth, so I love that Yogurtland is so close to USC! Whenever we finish eating dinner near Gateway, my friends and I always head to Yogurtland for a sweet treat to end the night.

There are also a lot of things to do within USC’s campus at night. USC has a program called Late Night ‘SC, which hosts fun events past 7:00pm. Recently, I went to an adult coloring event where they provided free coloring books and coffee! I also went to a mug painting event with my friends, where we got to paint our own mugs, all supplies included. We had a lot of fun, and it was a nice break from studying. Additionally, every Thursday from 7:30pm to 11:30pm, there’s “Tommy-oke” at Tommy’s Place. ThisPlace is a weekly karaoke event. It’s an open space where students can come together and do karaoke. I haven’t gotten the chance to check it out yet, but, since I love karaoke, this is definitely on my bucket list.

USC may quiet down at night, but it never really slows down. There’s always still something going on. Whether I’m in a club meeting, studying in the library, grabbing dinner with friends, or attending a Late Night ‘SC event, my evenings are always full in their own way. No two nights are the same, and that’s what I love the most! There’s always something to do, but USC also provides spaces to unwind and make time for yourself. For me, USC in the evening is where productivity, community and fun all come together.

One of the most common questions we hear from students around the world is some version of: “How will USC understand and evaluate my high school curriculum?”

It’s a fair question. There isn’t just one way to complete secondary school. In fact, there are hundreds of different curricula globally, likely well over a thousand, when you consider national systems, regional variations, and individual school models.

The good news: we know them. And we mean that sincerely.

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Each year, we review applications from students studying in a wide range of systems, including the U.S. curriculum (with AP coursework), the IB Diploma Programme, A-Levels (in the UK and in places like Singapore and Hong Kong), the French Baccalauréat, Indian curricula such as CBSE and ISE, and many more across Latin America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and beyond. While the structure of these systems may differ, our approach to reviewing them is consistent and thoughtful.

At USC, we don’t evaluate you against a U.S. curriculum if you didn’t study in one. Instead, we evaluate your academic record within the context of your educational environment.

So what does that actually mean? We’re asking questions like:

• Are you taking advantage of the most competitive academic opportunities available at your school and in your environment?

• Are you performing at a high level relative to your peers?

• Is there evidence of growth, challenge, and intellectual curiosity?

• Are you preparing yourself for your intended major?

Those questions apply whether your transcript includes term grades, national exam results, or a combination of both.

For some students, that might mean a traditional transcript with grades across semesters. For others, it may center on external examinations such as GCSEs and A-Levels, or national board exams (such as in India). IB students often present a mix of coursework and predicted exam results. No matter the format, we understand how to read your academic profile and how to place it in context.

The same principles we discuss in this blog post apply to students outside of the United States, too. We look for rigor. We notice trends over time. We pay attention to context: what was available to you, what challenges you may have faced, and how you responded. We’re not just scanning for numbers; we’re building a full picture of your academic journey.

Preparation for your intended major is especially important. If you’re applying to a program like Business Administration (BUAD), for example, strong quantitative preparation, including coursework in mathematics through calculus, can be an important signal of readiness. But again, that preparation might look different depending on your curriculum. We’re not looking for one specific class title; we’re looking for the underlying skills and foundation.

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To help bring more clarity to this process, we’ve created a resource on our website outlining academic expectations across many of the most common international curricula we see. If you haven’t already, we encourage you to explore the “International Qualifications” tool on our website.

Lastly, here’s what you should know as you prepare your application:

• Your school, not you, must provide official copies of academic records from all secondary or senior secondary schools, pre-university programs, and colleges and universities you have attended.

• These records must be sent directly from the schools or testing agencies. If the document is not written in English, they must also be submitted in the native language, accompanied by a certified English translation.

• You must send external examination results and/or predicted results, such as GCSE/IGCSE results, as well as predicted IB or A-Level results, Indian board examination results, Australian ATAR, etc.

At the end of the day, no matter where you’re studying, the takeaway is this: your curriculum is not a barrier to admission because we know it. Our job is to understand your academic achievements in context and to see how you’ve made the most of the environment you’re in.

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

I was lucky to have support from my father during my college search process, including college visits. Since my mom was from France, she didn’t have as much knowledge about American higher education. While he did the driving from place to place, he made sure that I was the one in the proverbial driver’s seat. There is so much value in letting your student take the lead. After all, once they’re off to college, they’ll be on their own.

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During our east coast trip (since I went to high school in California), he took care of booking flights and hotels, since I didn’t have a credit card at the time. However, it was my responsibility to book campus visits, which meant figuring out how to schedule the visits in a way that made sense for the drive. I was also responsible for printing Mapquest directions from location to location (since we didn’t have GPS at the time). In addition, he had me make a binder with an evaluation for each school, which I filled out at the end of the day.

Looking back, I realize that this was such a healthy approach to helping me with college visits and the college search process in general. I recommend working with your student to figure out which colleges to visit. Hopefully, they’ve been able to work with their college counselor to narrow down the list, so you’re visiting a mix of reach, 50/50, and safety schools.

While you can decide who will do the driving from place to place, I do recommend putting them in charge of making reservations at each college. It’s important to teach them early how to put together a schedule. Let them also reach out to individual departments to visit a class, say hi to their admission counselor, or set up a meeting with a professor, if those are offered at the school.

Having an evaluation for each visit was also super helpful. Again, let your student put together a rough draft before you jump in and add any missing elements. These can be great talking points when you get home or back to your hotel at the end of the night. The evaluations can include things like ratings for different criteria, as well as qualitative pieces such as their favorite part of the school, any remaining questions they have, etc.

Speaking of questions, they should do their research ahead of time, so they can ask questions at the end of the admission presentation. It’s understandable that parents will have questions for admission counselors or tour guides, but we’re really impressed when students are the ones doing the talking. It shows that they’re eager and engaged.

Ultimately, engagement is the key—as is setting up your student for success once they leave the nest. So let them be an active part of setting up college visits. They’ll learn valuable lessons along the way.

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

It’s a busy time of year in the USC Office of Undergraduate Admission. Then again, when is it not busy? Our counselors have already completed the first-year application process, and we’re now very eager to admit future Trojans who applied in our transfer process.

We know that transfer applicants have been on the other side of the deadline for some time, and we understand that waiting is the worst! While we never want this process to be overly stressful, we know that it’s just how it goes during this time of year. But the wait will be over soon! We will have an update for transfer applicants by May 31st. Students will either receive an admission decision or a request for spring grades.

There’s a lot of speculation as to why we request spring grades—and, let’s be honest, online forums are not always the most reliable place to get accurate information—so let’s get to the heart of it. Why might we want to see how you did in the spring term?

We want to confirm a year’s worth of strong college work.

It’s very common for us to request spring grades from students who are in their first year of college. USC’s academic environment is rigorous, and we want to be sure that the students we accept will be successful in their coursework here. There are many aspects of an academic record that are worthy of consideration, and our most competitive applicants often have at least a full year of college grades.

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An applicant is in the process of meeting a requirement or a recommended course.

USC has both a writing requirement and a minimum math requirement for transfer students. If a student is receiving a spring grade request, it is possibly because we want to confirm they have met that requirement before advancing them in the process. Furthermore, they may be taking coursework that is relevant and/or required for their major (e.g., calculus for a business major, biology for a neuroscience major), and we’re waiting on those grades to evaluate the student’s preparation for that field of study.

A student has been showing potential, and we are hopeful that they will show improved grades.

We know that the transition to college can be difficult. And, sometimes, students take a bit of time to get their feet under them. It is not uncommon for us to request spring grades from students who haven’t been performing at the level we’d like to see, but who we think might be stronger with another semester of coursework under their belt.

One thing we want to be really clear about: A request for spring grades does not guarantee an offer of admission or indicate that we’re leaning towards a specific admission decision. If an applicant receives a request for spring grades, it is because we do not yet have enough information to make a decision. Admission to USC is competitive and not just a matter of checking boxes. While academic performance is the focus of our review, we are also looking at a student’s writing, reviewing their academic department supplements, and assessing their fit with their selected majors. How a student performs in the spring will help us make our final call, but spring grades do not dictate our decision-making process. Doing well certainly helps, but there is so much we take into consideration. At the end of the process, we are not only considering an applicant’s preparation for USC, but also how the student fits into our larger transfer class. For that reason, while we try to get decisions out as soon as possible (on a rolling basis), we aren’t always able to provide admission decisions immediately after receiving spring transcripts.

So what if a student receives a request for spring grades? If a student receives a request for spring grades, we want to see their final spring grades. Progress reports will not be sufficient, and we know that this may mean we will not have their spring grades until later in the spring/summer (especially for those of at schools on a quarter system). We require that students submit their spring transcripts by June 30 for consideration. Uploading the incorrect document may result in the delay of an admission decision. Students should make sure that they are waiting until they have ALL final grades from their school(s). Submitting an official transcript from another school takes a lot of time, so we encourage students to upload an unofficial copy of their final spring grades in their USC Applicant Portal. This will help speed up the review process.

While waiting is hard –and we understand that our transfer process runs later than most—the last batch of our final decisions will come out by mid-July at the latest. If you have any questions in the meantime, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Edited by: Rosa Garcia Rios, Assistant Director - USC Office of Admission