University of Southern California Top Questions

USC is located in LA, and because of our proximity to Hollywood, we get a lot of awesome guests on campus. My freshman year Steven Speilberg came into my class and watched a video I made. Our school is pretty well known also, so tons of people stop by. Obama made a speech here last year, and Ron Paul kicked off his presidential campaign on campus. We also have an amazing alumni association, which is really helpful with job searches.

It has amazing academic options. There is cutting edge technology availble to students with well known professors working with students.

USC has a true desire to instill in its students the value of knowledge, tolerance, community, integrity, discipline, loyalty, ambition, comradery and courageousness as one endeavors to make their mark on the world.

A student talks about his college experience

My school is a beautiful campus in a very urban city. Some poeple call it an oasis in the city.

If you're used to living in a small, tight-knit community where everyone knows each other, USC may be a bit of a culture-shock to you. This was definitely my experience my first year here; I met knew people every day, and I still do. However, I find myself a member of many good communities on campus, and see people I know every day, all the time. Life here is the right balance between two extremes: being a number and being trapped in a bubble. The location is also great: you have downtown LA up the street, the beach is usually a 25 minute drive, Griffith Park (the largest city park in the country) is 20 minutes away, some great skiing/snowboarding is 1-2hrs. away, etc...I think many people are concerned with the safety of the surrounding neighborhood; it's safe--there are enough high-profile people at USC to ensure very good security in and around campus.

I already have :)

USC kicks ass and I love the mix of people. I'm happy to be able to work hard and play hard, as thats what engineers excel in.

Food on campus is great, although it can get repetitive after a while. There are two cafeterias, Parkside and EVK, and then there are other restaurants on campus, such as Carl's Jr., Wolfgang Puck Express, Wahoo's Fish Taco where you can use your dining dollars. The Lyon Center gym at SC is also a really great institution. Take advantage of it! When it comes to the freshman 15, if you force yourself to work out, it won't be an issue.

GO TO USC IT'S AMAZING :) but if you're considering a career in architecture, engineering, or medicine, be prepared for a really hard and time-consuming academic life.