Student Perspectives: Why USC Made My College List
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.
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!