When I tell new people I meet on campus or in the city that I’m from Birmingham, Alabama, they often say, “Oh wow, that’s so far away! Why did you decide to move all the way out here for school?” My answer is always the same: location, academic opportunity, and the Trojan Family.
Location
USC is located right in the middle of Los Angeles, California, which has a much more ideal vibe and atmosphere than Birmingham. I always wanted to go to college in a big city, and Los Angeles was the perfect fit because the weather is ideal, I have family here, and there are so many things to explore.
Weather and Lifestyle
The sunny, mild climate of Los Angeles is a lot different than the hot, humid summers and chilly winters I’m used to in Birmingham. Most of the time, the weather is pleasant, which allows for outdoor activities and exploration to appreciate all that Southern California has to offer.
Cultural and Recreational Activities
Los Angeles is a bustling cultural hub that offers a wide range of museums, theaters, and music venues. Places to visit include the Getty Center, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Broad, and more! LA is also comprised of diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences and activities.
Academic Opportunity
During my search for top-tier engineering schools, USC’s Viterbi School of Engineering stood out for its unique Computer Science and Business Administration program, offering a rare combination of skills. However, during my freshman year, I realized that computer science wasn’t my long-term passion. With the flexibility provided by Viterbi, I switched to Industrial and Systems Engineering, which aligned better with my interests in optimizing complex systems.
Programs and Resources
The Viterbi School of Engineering is renowned for its cutting-edge programs and resources. For example, the Center for Undergraduate Research in Viterbi Engineering (CURVE) Program provides undergraduate students the opportunity to participate in paid research. During my freshman year, I was selected for CURVE and worked on an exciting project in the computer science department’s GLAMOR Lab, gaining valuable hands-on experience.
Internships and Career Prospects
Being in Los Angeles also opens doors to numerous internship and career opportunities since the city is a major hub for tech companies, startups, and entertainment industries. This allows students to gain experience and build professional networks that are crucial for their future careers.
Trojan Family
The reputation of the Trojan Family and the connections you can make while attending USC was one of the first things I learned about the school during my college search. The passion that alumni have for USC was infectious and made me so excited about the prospect of being able to attend.
Networking and Support
The Trojan Family isn’t just a phrase; it’s a real network of support that goes well beyond graduation. Alumni are incredibly loyal and always ready to help fellow Trojans succeed. Whether it’s through mentorship, job referrals, or sharing advice, the connections you make at USC can have a lasting impact on your career and personal growth.
School Spirit and Traditions
The sense of community at USC is boosted by its rich traditions and school spirit. Whether it’s cheering at football games at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum or enjoying the Trojan Marching Band, the energy and pride among students and alumni are really strong. These experiences create a strong bond and a feeling of belonging that sticks with you long after you leave campus.
– – –
Choosing to move from Birmingham to Los Angeles for USC was a big decision, but it has definitely paid off. From the vibrant city life and exceptional academic opportunities to the lifelong connections with the Trojan Family, USC has truly become my home away from home.
