By: Samantha Romero ‘16

One of my favorite local coffee houses, Groundwork Coffee makes you feel like you’re lounging in your own living room. My favorite drink is the chai latté with their very own homemade whipped cream. If you’re looking for an extra kick of caffeine ask for the “dirty chai.” For some powerfood try one of their salads or my personal favorite is the toasted ham and cheese croissant…

By: Samantha Romero ‘16

Don’t let finals week take a toll on your health. Here is a curated list of my favorite healthy joints in DTLA that will have you feeling refreshed and focused.

By: Samantha Romero ‘16

1. République: located in Hancock Park, this French Cafe, bar, and bistro is absolute goals! The communal tables and natural lighting make for a welcoming atmosphere. My favorite choice for brunch is the Belgian waffle served with fresh berries and maple syrup. Also, don’t forget to try the freshly squeezed orange juice…

By: Samantha Romero ‘16

As midterms approach Trojans 360 has got you covered. Here is a curated list of the top 8 cafes to study in Downtown Los Angeles and help you power through midterm frenzy.

By: Lauren Brose ‘15

Although California is known for its year-round subtropical climate, barely-there winter, and the infamous “May Gray” and “June Gloom,” nothing beats the weather that inhabits the summer months of Los Angeles. There is much to look forward to whether you’re trying to take it easy or dance through the morning. Trust me, LA is filled to the brim with things to do–– I guarantee you’ll never be bored.

By: Lauren Brose ‘15

The 9-0 is literally across the street from Row and is conveniently located next to Panda Express and McDonalds. What more can I ask for?

By: Lauren Brose ‘15

Hikes are a great way of toning your body (a natural lift for your backside, ladies!), getting your suggested 30 minutes of cardio in, as well as simply venturing outside the concrete confines of USC and downtown. The best part: you get to chat to your friends throughout the entire trail and be close to nature. One of my biggest accomplishments was hiking the tallest mountain in South Lake Tahoe called Mt. Tallac. It took me nearly the entire day and I was gasping for oxygen as I literally crawled the last quarter mile. In my defense, oxygen was becoming sparse considering the increased elevation and change in altitude but I felt the greatest surge of endorphins imaginable when I finally reached the top. Never had a PB&J tasted so heavenly. Maybe you’re not about that 12.5 mile hike. Instead, I outlined a handful of hikes around Los Angeles that range from less than two miles to up to seven miles.

By: Kelly Kinas ‘17

This second part of the “Getting Off Campus” series is for those who are lucky enough to have a car, money for insurance and gas, and enough time to travel around. Not only can you go shopping somewhere other than the pop-up places on Trousdale, you are also pretty popular with your friends if they ever need a ride to the airport.

By: Kelly Kinas ‘17

USC is amazing but at some points during the year, I need to get away. Living on campus can sometimes be overwhelming. Luckily, we live in one of the most diverse cities in the world and there are many things to do within a few miles of campus. So get out and explore!