As a freshman student at USC, it’s easy to get stuck inside the campus “bubble,” going back and forth between my dorm, class, and the dining halls. Everything I need is right here on campus–especially with the perk of having a Target and Trader Joe’s just steps away in the village–so it’s tempting to settle into a comfortable routine. But I’ve found that making an intentional effort to explore Los Angeles has been one of the best decisions I’ve made this semester.
Getting off campus, even just for a few hours, is a great way to take a refreshing break from schoolwork and student life. It gives me the opportunity to reset, connect and spend quality time with my friends, and remember how amazing it is to go to college in California!
Here are some of my favorite ways that I’ve been exploring Los Angeles this semester:
Climbing Trip to Point Dume in Malibu:
On Veteran’s Day, we had no classes, so I signed up for a day trip to Point Dume in Malibu with the SC Climbing Club! I’ve been attending some indoor practices with the club this semester at the Cliffs of Id gym working on bouldering, but this was my first time outdoor climbing. We spent the day top-rope climbing right above the ocean, laying out and relaxing on the beach, and enjoying lunch together as a group. I definitely challenged myself this day to face my fears of climbing outside, but it made me so excited to keep improving my climbing skills!
Santa Monica Pier and Beach Day:
During welcome week, I went with a group to Santa Monica for a beach day and a walk along the pier! We took the Metro from USC all the way to the coast for free using our U-pass, which made the adventure even more fun. We spent the day swimming in the ocean (even though we later learned you’re not supposed to swim at Santa Monica…), watching a magic show on the boardwalk, and grabbing lunch at one of the restaurants on the pier. This is one of my favorite memories from the beginning of the school year!
Spending time off-campus and discovering new parts of Los Angeles has helped me grow as both a student and a person navigating living away from home for the first time. I can’t wait to continue exploring the city and getting outside as much as I can.
