As I look back to my senior year of high school, I truly believe attending USC is one of the best decisions I’ve made. I’m originally from a small town in New Hampshire where every acre is filled with trees and the most exciting thing to do for fun is hiking. Before I attended a college fair, I hadn’t heard much about schools on the West Coast like USC but decided to apply after talking to an enthusiastic representative at the fair and researching more into USC and Viterbi, its engineering school.
Once I was accepted into Viterbi and into my first choice major of chemical engineering, I held onto my excitement until I visited USC in the spring when I attended an ExploreSC day. The defining moment for me choosing USC was in the TCC ballroom when the curtains opened and the Trojan Marching Band (TMB) surprised everyone with the beautiful and iconic “Tribute to Troy” anthem.
I played alto saxophone all throughout high school in our marching and symphonic band, and knew I wanted to continue playing in the TMB once I heard them play. My academics have always been my top priority but I also value how I spend my free time, which includes being part of a fun club where I don’t have to think about engineering. I continued to be amazed by how amazing the Viterbi school seemed, with a variety of clubs and the emphasis placed on academic and professional support. I also chose Viterbi for its Progressive Degree Program, which allows students to pursue a Masters degree alongside the Bachelor degree. I knew I was interested in attending graduate school and USC’s amazing PDP program would allow me take graduate classes while still working towards my undergraduate degree.
After talking to students at USC when I visited, I knew I would find a new home despite being so far from New Hampshire. Everyone I talked to was so kind and welcoming- one friendly student even let me see her room in McCarthy. I also loved the beautiful sunny weather and was excited by the opportunity to explore Los Angeles with new friends and experience new activities I wouldn’t have been able to if I attended a school closer to home in New England.
As I was applying to colleges, many people told me “It’ll work out” and “You’ll end up where you’re meant to be”. Now, I honestly believe these people were right because as I’m finishing up my sophomore year, I can’t imagine myself anywhere else and will always be so grateful and happy I chose USC. Fight on!!!
