Top 10 Things Rising Seniors Should Do to Prepare to Apply to USC

My colleagues and I are currently reading the applications of all of your senior classmates who already submitted their applications to USC. Before we know it, it will be your stories and academic backgrounds that fill up our computer screens. Here are ten things I suggest you start doing now to prepare to apply to USC.  

1. Mind the moment  

We are still in the midst of a global pandemic. Many of us are likely still feeling the stress of this unusual time. Continue to do what you can, and go easy on yourself! Know that your application to USC will be reviewed in the context of the coronavirus and the ways you and your family have been impacted.  

2. Continue to care 

I wrote a blog this past Fall that summarized a new initiative by college admission leaders to make caring common. Basically, in addition to your academic achievements, the way you care for others in your community matters. If you haven’t already, devote time to caring for others in your community, be it your family, your friends, or those less fortunate than you.  

3. Keep up the good work 

When we review your high school transcript, we want to see an upward trend in grades. We will be looking at your academic performance for not only junior year, but for first semester of senior year as well in order to make an Admission decision. Continue to put in the time required to show you have prioritized your academics.  

 4. Ramp up your rigor 

In addition to an upward trend in grades, we want to see that you challenged yourself in the classes you chose to take. We know that every applicant has different courses available to them and some schools even set limits on the number of AP, IB or dual enrollment courses you can take. Of the options available to you, how have you continued to challenge yourself?  

5. Do what you love 

We will look to see how you have spent your time outside of class and the ways you have grown as a leader in your community outside of class. But going to college is also about getting better at the things you already enjoy doing. When you apply to USC, you will need to pick a major. Making such a choice can be a stressful one. Don’t worry, most USC students change their major at least once. For now, stay involved in classes and activities that empower you to spend time doing what you love and what you’re best at.  

6. Spend some time searching 

Maybe you already know USC is the best school for you, but have you taken advantage of one of our virtual tours and programs? How about researching what majors we offer? Now is the time to figure out what you want in a college and what USC has to offer so you can ask good questions of the admissions counselors who are looking forward to working with you in the Fall.  

7. Stay in touch 

If your school has a college counselor, this spring may be the time to talk with them about the college application process. Remember you will need to submit one letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor. Do you have someone in mind already? You want to be sure that this teacher or counselor knows you well enough as a student to speak to your strengths in the classroom.  

8. Reflect on your story 

For many applicants, the Common App personal statement is the longest and most self-reflective piece of writing they have ever written. From an admission counselor’s perspective, this essay can be a great opportunity to hear your voice and see your ability to reflect on some aspect of your life. Now is the time to begin to take stock of your background, the ways you have grown, and what you are passionate about to prepare to write this personal statement.  

9. Make sense of the money 

Any student who applies by December 1st will be considered for a merit scholarship. And we meet a hundred percent of each applicant’s demonstrated financial–need. Any first-year applicant whose family makes less than eighty-thousand dollars a year will attend USC tuition-free. Still, now is a good time to begin to ask questions about how you and your family will fund your college experience.  

10. Fight on! 

Preparing to apply to college can be stressful. This stress, on top of that of junior year and the state of the world, may feel like a lot to bear. You got this! Take small steps and take it one day at a time. If you need guidance, or have questions about USC, feel free to reach out to your USC Admission Counselor. We’re in this together and are here to help.