Picking USC was a no-brainer for me, a decision that usually doesn’t come so easy when it comes to such a significant life choice. Yet, I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have been able to confidently declare my choice of educational institution. There are three major reasons why I made the decision to pick USC as my home for the next four years.
Resources:
USC offers resources that cover every aspect of undergraduate and graduate life. With myriad options for academic support, mental health resources, and post-graduation guidance, USC ensures students never feel adrift or isolated. Despite its size, the university maintains a personal touch, ensuring no student feels overlooked or neglected. This was a crucial aspect for me during my selection process, as having guidance through various challenges not only makes college more manageable but also eases the transition into adulthood.
Sense of Community:
Having moved frequently throughout my life, I’ve learned how to tell whether or not a new environment is inviting or closed off to outsiders. At USC, the air bursts with a sense of togetherness. By engaging with clubs such as the Rocket Propulsion Lab (RPL) and getting involved in undergraduate research through CURVE, I’ve fostered relationships with people all over campus. While stepping out of one’s comfort zone can be daunting, there are myriad networking and social avenues to facilitate this process.Whether it’s within clubs, classrooms, or casual encounters, fellow Trojans are always eager to meet and greet a new face. It’s important to build your own little village, especially when navigating something like college, and at USC, it comes naturally.
Location:
Finally, of course, it’s impossible not to appreciate USC’s location. Living in SoCal gives way to many opportunities, both social and career wise. Moreover, it’s beautiful! Despite having lived in California for about two years, I spent quite a few more years in the Midwest and on the East Coast. While I appreciated the snow and cold weather, I found myself dreaming of those warm sunny days I experienced in Cali. Going to university in a beautiful place was a major selling point for me, and getting to walk to class in the warm sun is not only a mood boost, but also makes me feel more productive. I always enjoy seeing Alumni Park brimming with life when it’s especially warm.
While there are myriad additional reasons why USC resonated with me, including the flexibility of the engineering program and the structure of my chosen major, it’s essential to recognize the university’s offerings beyond academics. I take immense pride in being a Trojan, and I eagerly anticipate further exploration and utilization of the opportunities USC affords. Fight on!
