Image: My POV from my favorite spot to lay on campus — look at how gorgeous it is with the blue sky!
As I wrap up my first semester as a sophomore, I find myself reflecting on the transformative journey that was my freshman year. While the my experience at the Viterbi Summer Institute gave me a glimpse of life as a USC student, stepping onto campus for my first semester was still overwhelming. New faces, unfamiliar professors, and diving headfirst into engineering left me feeling nervous. But I made it my mission to embrace the unfamiliar, pushing myself beyond my comfort zone to seize the incredible opportunities USC offers. That mindset set the stage for a year of growth, discovery, and adaptation.
Finding Purpose in Academics:
In high school, my courses were broad and varied, fulfilling graduation requirements but often feeling disconnected from my career goals. At USC, everything changed. From day one, I was immersed in classes directly tied to industry knowledge. The focus on building practical, professional skills was both challenging and exciting, shifting my perspective from being just a student to preparing for a career. This newfound purpose inspired me to engage deeply with my studies, equipping me with confidence and direction for the future.
Navigating Dining Hall Life:
Living next to a dining hall as a freshman (check out this post about my freshman housing experience!) came with its own set of adjustments. The overwhelming variety of food, meal plans, and dining hall hours demanded a level of independence I hadn’t fully exercised before. Over time, I found my rhythm, discovering favorite meals and building a routine that worked for me. Beyond just eating, this experience taught me important lessons in time management and making thoughtful choices—skills that have proven invaluable in college life.
Learning to Ask for Help:
While I had experience emailing my teachers in high school to ask questions, navigating office hours with professors in college was an entirely new challenge. I remember feeling nervous the first time I attended, with so many questions racing through my mind: What if I’m the only one there? What do I ask? How do I make the most of this time? Thankfully, many of my professors, especially those teaching freshman-specific courses, were well-prepared for students new to the concept of office hours. They were patient, approachable, and eager to help, which made the experience much less intimidating. Over time, I realized that office hours weren’t just for asking questions—they were opportunities to build connections, gain deeper insights, and take charge of my own learning. This small but significant step helped me feel more confident and supported in my academic journey.
Reflecting on these experiences, I realize how each moment—from academic challenges to everyday responsibilities—has shaped me into a more resilient and adaptable individual. Freshman year wasn’t just about learning; it was about growth in every sense, preparing me for everything USC and life beyond has to offer.
