This fall marks my final year as a senior mechanical engineering student at USC. Although I’m starting to feel sentimental, there are a few things I want to impart onto my fellow students before I cross that stage in the spring. Whether you’re a freshman, sophomore, junior, or even a high school student, these in’s and out’s are habits and mindsets that can help you make the most out of your USC experience.
Let’s start, shall we?
The 4 Out’s
- Quality Over Quantity
Being in every club on campus sounds great until you’re juggling meetings for 10+ orgs you barely participate in. Pick the ones that truly matter to you. A smaller, intentional commitment list will be a more beneficial use of your time. - 8 a.m. Lectures
Need I say more? - Perfectionism
There’s a point where chasing “perfect” stops being productive. Sometimes 90% of the effort still gets you to your goal, and that’s a win. - Feeling Behind
Engineering is tough…that’s just the truth. But setbacks aren’t signs of failure; they’re opportunities to pivot, rethink, and try approaches you might not have considered otherwise. Your path is your own, and it’s okay if your timeline looks different from everyone else’s.
The 4 In’s
- Learn a New Skill
Whether it’s a new software, brushing up on your Python skills, or even learning a new instrument, adding new tools to your personal “toolbox” keeps you sharp and adaptable. This summer, I began learning new engine simulation software called GT-Suite, which is widely used in the automotive, aerospace, and energy industries. As Powerplant Lead on USC Racing, I can now model and analyze SCR25’s engine performance with our custom intake and exhaust systems. - Connect with People on Campus
There are so many brilliant people at USC, and one conversation can completely change your trajectory. I wish freshman-year me was less afraid of asking more questions, because your professors, TAs, and advisors genuinely want to see you succeed. They can open doors, connect you with opportunities, and give you advice you won’t find in any textbook. - Be Intentional About Your Career Goals
When I applied to USC, I chose engineering on the Common App without much thought. I guessed it might be something I enjoyed. Three years later, I can confidently say it was the right path for me. I love engineering because it has given me the technical skills to work towards solutions for the world’s grand challenges. Looking ahead, I have been thinking about where I want to be in the next five to ten years, and for me, that means starting out in industry and eventually pursuing patent law. - Leave Your Mark
One of my favorite things I’ve done at USC is serving on the National Society of Black Engineers’ (NSBE) Pre-Collegiate Initiative committee, where I spent two years volunteering and organizing events for K-12 students. I’ve made it a point to commit my time to uplift the next generation of black engineers because they are our future.
Senior year isn’t about doing it all, it’s about doing the right things well. My in’s and out’s are just a snapshot of how I’m approaching this year and the lessons I’ve learned during my time at USC. So I hope this helps you make the most of your time here and leave your mark!
