The beginning of semester means explaining your major a bajillion times, regretting scheduling morning and night lectures, and, of course, finding time to sneak in a quick bites of your protein bar between deadlines and events. If you find yourself skipping meals, living off of vending machine trail mix, or rationing your overpriced L.A. takeout, here’s a guide to the best cheap eats in and around USC.

I was somewhat surprised when TCC began selling pizza slices this school year. I understand the pasta place next to it, but when college students already get so much free pizza from club events and campus talks, pizza that costs money better be worth it. I tried all of Slice Shop’s Pizzas and ranked them from worst to best. Here’s my take:

Nestled within Sawtelle lies a food lover’s paradise–Japantown. This charming downtown is perfect for a night out with friends. With offerings ranging from creme brulee crepes to Korean soft-serve desserts known as “Ah-boong,” which are fish-shaped waffle cones, you’re in for a treat.

A new semester means new ways to get involved with one (or many) of USC’s numerous student organizations. A walk down Trousdale during the semesterly Involvement Fair highlights how there is no shortage of opportunities. While there are many social clubs––clubs that don’t require an application to be accepted––there are an equal number of pre-professional and application based clubs.

Starting college offered the chance to start over in a way that absolutely thrilled me, but in 2020, as I was preparing to start that chapter, I also got diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Navigating my new diagnosis during a pivotal time of my life left me with a lot of whys and hows. Chronic illness was poised to take over my life and conspired to ruin my college experience.

By: Ngai Yeung ‘23

There are only so many options when it comes to on-campus dining, so it’s always exciting to see a new place pop up. A few months after Filone’s Pasta Kitchen opened, I went down to the TCC and ranked each dish from worst to best. Here’s my take on what to order (and what to avoid).

While my freshman year took place entirely online, I know what it’s like to start a new school with no friends. It can be daunting to walk up to people and start a conversation without knowing how they’ll respond.

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I hope everyone had a nice summer break! Just like the first day of classes is getting closer, so is the Trojan Welcome Experience! In the week before classes officially start, there’s new events every day to introduce you to the school, allow you to meet fellow Trojans, and celebrate the start of a new semester.

Welcome, newly minted Trojans! This week, you’ll be packing your bags in your childhood bedroom and unpacking them in your brand new dorm room or apartment in Los Angeles. As you navigate a new school and possibly a new city, you’ll naturally have heaps of questions. Here at Trojans360, we’re here to help you choose the right dining hall, find your way around campus, and calm your nerves about everything being so new.

By: Kristen Adams ‘25

Looking for a new place to grab dinner with friends? Whether you are a seasoned hot pot lover or a Korean Barbecue (KBBQ) newbie, I have compiled a list of my favorite hot pot and KBBQ spots around LA and especially Koreatown that I frequent with my friends on the weekend. Bon appétit!

By: Ela Rybak ‘25

With finals around the corner, studying is at the forefront of most people’s minds. However,  you may feel stuck in a rut with study techniques that no longer feel beneficial. There are a variety of study methods, and the most effective method will depend on your learning style and preferences. Here are some general tips and strategies that may be helpful as you prepare for these major cumulative exams.