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