My first interaction with USC after being accepted was an invitation to participate in the Viterbi Summer Institute (VSI). The program, held over a month during the summer before freshman year, seemed like an incredible opportunity—but also an intimidating one. My mom, sensing my hesitation, encouraged me to go for it, and I’m so glad I listened to her.
VSI is designed to support underrepresented students in engineering, such as those who identify as Latinx, Black, or Native American. It offers an invaluable glimpse into life at Viterbi while introducing participants to the world of research. The program blends team-building activities, college-readiness seminars, preview courses in calculus and digital literacy, and a research project, all set against the backdrop of USC’s vibrant campus. For that month, we lived in Parkside Arts & Humanities and ate meals at Everybody’s Kitchen (EVK), illustrating what would become our daily college life.
Despite my excitement, I was nervous. As a white Colombian-American, I worried about whether I would fit in. Would I feel out of place among other students? Would I find people I could connect with? But as soon as I arrived, my fears melted away. I found myself surrounded by students who were both wonderfully similar to me and refreshingly different. We bonded over team challenges, late-night movies, and impromptu game sessions, quickly forming a close-knit community that felt like family.
Beyond the friendships, VSI gave me invaluable insights into USC. I learned my way around campus, discovered the countless resources available to students, and got a feel for what classes would be like. And the research component was especially exciting—I had the opportunity to work within the Electrical and Computer Engineering department, diving into computer vision. It was a thrilling introduction to hands-on research and left me eager for more.
When it came time to move in for the fall semester, the transition felt seamless, thanks to VSI. I already knew people to grab meals with, classmates I could study alongside, and how to navigate USC’s sprawling campus. Most importantly, I felt confident in my decision to become a Trojan.
But my VSI story didn’t end there. Last summer, I returned as a Residential Advisor (RA) for the 2024 VSI cohort. Coming back to the program as a mentor was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my college journey. Seeing a new group of students step onto campus with the same mix of excitement and nervousness that I once felt brought everything full circle. I loved sharing my experiences, offering guidance, and watching them create their own bonds and memories. Once again, I found that special family feeling, surrounded by people who share similar identities and aspirations.
VSI has been a cornerstone of my USC experience. It gave me a head start in college, a sense of belonging, and opportunities to grow in ways I never imagined. Whether as a participant or a mentor, VSI taught me the importance of connection, resilience, and reaching back to lift others up.
