A Change of Scenery
As I navigate my busy schedule as a sophomore studying mechanical engineering and pre-med, I often reflect on my journey as a Trojan, and whether the USC experience has lived up to the expectations. In August of 2023, I packed my bags, left Maui, and arrived at the university that I would call my home for the next four years. This decision was filled with excitement and curiosity for the new chapter of my life that had just begun. But, at the same time, I was nervous; I did not know how well I would adapt to the California culture, the people, and the lifestyle of a big city, and I was worried about whether my parents’ financial investment would pay off.
Finding My Place
Now, I think back to that time and realize that there was no need to be worried. USC has provided access to countless opportunities ranging from mentorship, networking, and overall growth as a university student and aspiring professional. My advisors, both pre-health and engineering, have worked closely with me throughout my semesters to ensure that I am mentally healthy while also pursuing passions and expanding my knowledge in medicine and engineering. When my classes get difficult, Viterbi even offers free tutoring and advice from students who have already taken (and excelled in) the class. The resources are unparalleled, in every aspect, and I could not be more grateful for the help that Viterbi, and USC, has offered in advancing my career.
The clubs—both recreational and academic—provide a cohort of students to bond with and even more opportunity to develop practical and professional skills. The recreational clubs, in particular, serve as wonderful outlets for stress and create time for students to come together and participate in fun activities. Personally, I am a member of the USC Club Swim Team, Climbing Club, and Hawaii Club. We are all connected through our passion and enjoyment of each activity, and these communities have introduced me to a fun group of students outside of engineering.
For all my women in engineering, the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) has been an invaluable community and resource to me, as well as many others. I am currently a SWE ambassador and shadowing the Finance Committee with hopes to join as an officer in the future. SWE has a variety of fun student events where fellow SWEsters get to connect and even professional events like Fall Evening with Industry (FEWI) and Spring Evening with Industry (SEWI). These events allow SWE members to network with various companies to better understand the internship process and even land internships of their own! I am so grateful for the SWE community and all that the organization has to offer.
Wow… this past year and a half has been filled with some of the most amazing moments of my life. Balancing a rigorous course load with weekend gamedays, exploring LA, and more has certainly been challenging yet fulfilling on every level. The Trojan Family and the people here at USC have truly made my time here unforgettable. Viterbi has allowed me to explore my passions while still getting to experience what it is like to attend a world-class university in both academics and student life. I have loved my time here and look forward to what the rest of my academic career has to offer. It is truly a privilege to be a member of the Trojan Family, and I hope you find it to be just as fulfilling too! Fight On!
