So if you’re feeling that familiar post-grad panic, I get it — I really do. But I also want to say: this open-endedness isn’t a failure. It’s potential. And that’s pretty exciting when you let yourself see it that way.  

Now, as a graduating senior, I have made some of my closest friends, landed a job in a city I have fallen in love with thanks to USC connections, become a blogger for the very platform that influenced my journey, and it all started because I chose to take the harder path.

If you’re earlier in your college journey, consider this a completely honest list of what I actually would’ve done differently (and a few things I’m really glad I got right).

So, for a couple of days, my dad and I traveled up north and explored the country some more. These are some hidden gem places in Ireland and Northern Ireland.

That’s how you have to think of college and the idea of a dream school. It’s burnt toast. If you didn’t get in, you weren’t meant to be there – the true test of who you are is making the best of somewhere you hadn’t really considered.

For anyone interested in going to Ireland next year for Spring Break, I’d highly recommend it. Ireland is a country rich with history, has a gorgeous countryside, and its people are some of the friendliest I’ve encountered — making the rain more than worth it. If you’re looking for a break from the typical tropical destinations, a colder vacation in Ireland may be in the cards for you next year.

ESA is a free-to-attend organization, run entirely by students, that’s committed to advocating for sustainability in the USC community. From clothing swaps to panels with special guests, attendees are constantly learning how they can live a more sustainable life.

Trojans of all kinds converge on the USC subreddit for advice, a chance to laugh, and share news. I’ve found it to be a place full of resources, something to quickly provide me with authentic information that would be difficult to find anywhere else.

Starting college can feel like stepping into an entirely new world, full of opportunities, challenges, and unknowns. When I first arrived at USC, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I quickly realized that the key to making the most of my experience was learning to say yes.

Studying abroad is often described as a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with adventure, personal growth, and unforgettable memories. But what people don’t always talk about is the culture shock that can come with it.

Now, let’s talk about the Trojan Heartbreakers. These are the friends who have been through it all, literally all of it. The ghosting, the late-night “wyd” messages, and the soul-crushing what-are-we-even-doing? Moments and of course their own “that was mean” moments. They’ve emerged from the wreckage with their dignity (or at least some of it) intact and their hearts just a little bit wiser.

Anthony and Avery are two good friends of mine, and also two friends I’ll unfortunately be losing soon due to early graduation. As juniors, we’d typically have one year left at USC. But Anthony’s graduating this spring, and Avery’s graduating in the fall. I had them tell me about the pros and cons of their unique experience.