By: Antonia Le ‘22

It feels like from the very moment that COVID-19 forced all of us off-campus and back to our hometowns, there have been articles popping up left and right about how to stay productive during social distancing and what exactly to do when you can’t go outside. In fact, even Trojans 360 has published its fair share of such articles, and that’s great! Having something to do can give you a sense of structure when the world is changing in unprecedented ways. However, because the times are so uncertain, it’s impossible for everyone to be at the top of their game. If you’re feeling bad about not pulling a Shakespeare and writing the next King Lear in quarantine, read onward for a list of reasons why taking a step back is perfectly fine!

By: Vivika Kapoor ‘23

At the beginning of the semester, I started bringing my homework and assignments outside after feeling cooped up inside libraries and study lounges. I began bringing a picnic blanket out to the Great Lawn and doing my work there, which was one of the best decisions I made in college! Now, I want to share with my fellow Trojans why I love working outside. Check out these reasons why you should learn to love it too!

By: Jordan Bucknor ‘22

Okay, so, self-quarantine/social distancing can be difficult for a lot of reasons — boredom, fear, loneliness — but can especially difficult if you are cooped up with the wrong sort people. You know, the kind that play loud music in the middle of the night, don’t clean up after themselves, and try to get under your skin at every turn. Trust me, I get it. The first step should always be to talk about it, to see if there’s any sort of resolution that could be reached. Suggest solutions, use “I” statements, and be direct. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t — but if it’s the latter, that doesn’t mean it’s completely hopeless. Even if the person you’re rooming with is a stubborn as a brick, you can still retain some semblance of control over yourself and your sanity, despite who may be around you.

By: Sophia Pei ‘22

Gyms, hiking trails, and beaches might be closed but that’s not an excuse to not exercise. Chances are, the nation-wide shelter-in-place initiative has made your lifestyle more sedentary. Nevertheless, healthcare experts recommend getting approximately 20 minutes of moderate exercise daily to maintain health and immunity. It’s advised you do try to get outside for sunshine, be it a power walk to the convenience store or a bike ride around your neighborhood. But whether it is out of concern for your own health or your loved ones, you may not be able to go out for that breath of fresh air. Try some of my favorite equipment-free at-home exercise videos to help you stay healthy!

By: Jordan Bucknor ‘22

We’re living in some pretty weird times — not only as a school, but also as human beings in the midst of a global phenomenon. A lot of things are different and that’s kind of scary, but I think now more than ever, holding on to facts (or the closest things we know to be fact) is key to getting through this.

By: Claire Wong ‘23

During this nationwide pandemic, we are encouraged to stay home and practice social distancing. It is something that is very isolating and separates us from the ones we love. Here are a few ways in how you can stay connected with your friends and loved ones during this time and continue growing in all relationships.

By: Ann Nguyen ‘22

The endless midterm season has fallen upon many of us, and the mere thought of constant, back-to-back exams and midterm papers alone can drive you insane. How can you manage it all? How do you find your own balance? I’m still in the process of figuring it all out myself, but hopefully these tips from my personal experience will help you out!

By: Talia Walters ‘20

Two months into the new year, and it’s a good time to reflect on many of our New Year’s Resolutions to see how it’s all going. For me, I’ve given up on most of mine (which is true of almost every year – I’m not a fan of change), but one that I’m still going strong on is a social media detox that I chose to do pretty suddenly. It turns out when your resolutions are things you need to do for yourself, you’re more likely to stick to them – who would’ve thought! Anyways, here’s a review of my experience detoxing social media apps from my life and why I’d recommend doing it.

By: Ellice Ellis '20

It’s almost spring break, Trojans! Many of us have taken one or two midterms, outlined key term papers, or are gearing up to take a relaxing week off from our studies. For myself, I stress more than ever before winter break, summer break, or spring break because I try to balance relaxing and being productive before the vacation period even starts. If you’ve found yourself in this boat or are just generally stressed about school, work or life — this post is for you.

By: Antonia Le’ 22

It’s always daunting trying to reach out and seek mental health care. Most people have heard some criticism of USC Student Health Center, and that might scare them off from seeking the treatment that they need. However, asking for help shouldn’t be scary, and the process of seeking help should be transparent and known to all. So, if you want to know more about mental health care at USC and what you can do to make your life better, read on!

By: Ellice Ellis ‘20

Famous Maltese theorist Edward de Bono once said: “Creativity involves breaking out of established patterns in order to look at things in a different way." Its January 2020, the start of a new year and new decade, meaning a great time to try something new and jumpstart new habits, patterns, and goals. For myself, writing is my creative outlet of choice. I love expressing my opinion and telling stories with my words and encourage others to do the same. In the spirit of creativity, whatever medium you chose, here are some clubs, opportunities, and organizations to join this semester.

By: Ann Nguyen ‘22

Now that finals are over, you should reward yourself for a great semester. It’s time for some fun and relaxation! If you and your friends are trying to plan the perfect get-together to celebrate the holidays but don’t want to go too crazy, here are some fun party ideas for you.