Best USC Memories
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.
“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