As one can expect, deciding on where to go to college can be a daunting task. When I was in my senior year of high school, I did a lot of research on the different universities I was considering because my biggest fear was that I would regret my decision and be unhappy at a school that was not right for me. After stepping on the USC campus for the first time at Admitted Students Day, I quickly learned that USC was perfect for me. Here are some of the reasons why I chose USC:
The Diverse Student Body
One of the main reasons that I chose to study at USC was its diverse student body. In high school, I was one of the very few black students who were in my graduating class and the only black student to pursue engineering. When I first visited USC, the first thing I noticed was not only the presence but the celebration of students from all ethnicities and backgrounds. At USC, I am empowered every day because I feel represented and inspired by engineers who look like me.
The Collaborative Learning Environment
Another reason I chose USC was the collaborative learning environment. At USC, everyone wants to see you succeed, and I mean everyone. In almost every course I have taken, it has been easy to find and form study groups with other students. Additionally, the professors and TAs are very supportive of their students and go the extra mile to fulfill their students’ needs. One of my professors would take the time to meet with me outside of his normal office hours because I was unable to attend his official office hour sessions. Also, one of my former TAs helped me troubleshoot issues with a separate project that was completely unrelated to the class. I am incredibly grateful to my professors and TAs for their support and guidance.
Capable of More
At USC, one of the fascinating things I found out was that many of the students here have many other passions and interests like me. I am a mechanical engineering student, but I also love to play basketball, cook, and play the piano. Throughout my time at USC, I find it amazing how I have met new friends through clubs and organizations on campus who also share the same interests and passions as me!
Opportunity
Finally, I chose to attend USC because it has opened endless doors of opportunity for me. When you attend USC, you are studying with some of the best and most skilled people you will ever meet. For example, I have learned a great deal through my CURVE research position and I still find it shocking that I have contributed to two research papers under a highly-respected engineering professor at USC.
I can go on and on, but these were just a few of the many reasons why I chose to attend USC. I cannot imagine myself at another university because USC is truly that special.
