Skip to main content

Transitioning from high school to college is exciting, but it can also feel a bit intimidating. Don’t worry! You’re not alone in this—every prospective student and incoming freshman is navigating the same new territory. Here are a few tips I’ve picked up that can help make your first year at USC smoother and way more fun.

1. Don’t Be Shy—Make Connections!

One of the best pieces of advice I can give? Don’t be afraid to reach out! Whether it’s to someone in your classes, on your dorm floor, or in a club, making connections early on will help you feel more at home. Personally, I’ve found that meeting friends through clubs is the easiest and most fulfilling way to build connections. When you join a club, you instantly have something in common with the other members—an instant conversation starter! So, if you’re into gaming, photography, community service, or pretty much anything, there’s likely a club where you’ll find your people.

2. Use Your Resources!

USC is loaded with resources to help you succeed, so don’t be shy about using them! For example, if you’re in the Viterbi School of Engineering, you’ve got access to the Viterbi Learning Program (VLP), which offers free tutoring for certain courses. There’s also the Writing Center, where you can get help with your essays. And don’t sleep on office hours and those extra instructional sessions that some courses offer—these can be lifesavers, whether you’re struggling or just want some extra practice. College can get tough, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out and take advantage of the support USC provides. Trust me, it’ll make all the difference!

3. Have Fun and Explore LA!

Yes, you’re here for an education, but don’t let that keep you from all the amazing experiences college life has to offer! USC is in the heart of Los Angeles, a city that has so much to explore—from beaches to flea markets, museums, hikes, and so much more. It’s easy to get stuck in the “USC bubble,” but I encourage you to get out and see what LA has to offer. USC even offers free Metro and Bus passes to students, so you can explore the city without needing a car or spending a ton on rideshares.

Remember, college is about finding balance. So hit the books, but also make time to get out there and create memories. You’ll be glad you did!

These tips helped me navigate my first year, and I hope they can help you too. College is a big adjustment, but with an open mind and a willingness to reach out, you’re going to do great!

Riley Ashford

I am studying Industrial and Systems Engineering with a minor in Spanish, and I am from Birmingham, Alabama. I will be graduating with the class of 2027. I am currently involved in USC's chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), which works "to increase the number of culturally responsible black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community." I've also conducted research at the GLAMOR lab during my freshman year. Aside from engineering, I am also involved in Troy Camp, which is a student-run philanthropy that provides long-term mentorship for kids throughout South Los Angeles.