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.

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.

So, if you’re offered a job in another state or one that demands excessive overtime, take a moment to step back. Make a list of your negotiables and non-negotiables, and consider whether the job is truly right for you. I’ve made the mistake of pushing myself out of my comfort zone relentlessly for the sake of a job. While growth often comes from challenges, it’s important to recognize when the sacrifices just aren’t worth it. Your life should reflect all the things that matter to you, not just your career.

Taking 20 units is a lot of work, but it’s doable — and valuable. If I wasn’t taking 20 units, I wouldn’t be able to study everything I’m interested in. It’s a sacrifice I’m willing to make, especially if it means not having to graduate late (and pay for extra semesters). USC is such a prestigious institution, and we pay a lot of money to be here. I figured I might as well make the most of my tuition, and there’s support in place to be able to do it.

At one point or another you have probably had or will have a roommate, whether that be in school or not. Sometimes it can be difficult to navigate living with someone new, especially if you are used to having your own space. From personal experience, I feel it is important to maintain a decent living environment to ensure yourself a safe space to relax and also allowing yourself more time and energy to go into school. Here are a few tips and habits you can utilize to build a mutually beneficial relationship with your roommate.

One of the privileges of studying at a school like USC is the amount of academic opportunities there are. From unique classes, to clubs, to study abroad, and much, much more, the university puts a real emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. Around this time last year, something clicked in my brain: I really wanted to take advantage of everything that USC had to offer. So, I started considering a double major.

Like my peers, the thought of living with roommates was a bit unpleasant. But as a transgender student, the added possibility of living with people who were uninformed about my identity was nightmarish. At best, these people could be unsure yet accepting. At worst, I could face hatred, or even violence. These thoughts stayed in the back of my mind as I began to look into housing. Then the Rainbow Floor appeared.  

We have all probably had one too many near-miss scooter encounters. Speaking from personal experience, I have almost been hit by a scooter on or around campus when minding my own business numerous times. So I am here to highlight the importance of pedestrian safety. 

Fall semester typically brings an exciting aura into the atmosphere: tailgating, the smell of the street hotdogs after a football game, waiting in long lines at Dulce, joining new clubs, etc. But for those who embarked on a full-time Summer internship, going back to school brings a weird mix of feelings. During the last week of my Summer internship, my team gave me words of wisdom for approaching my senior year like, “have fun,” “live in the moment,” “treasure it!” I took these pieces of advice to heart but internally made a duh face. Of course, I’ll enjoy going back.

By: Ela Rybak ‘25

As USC students, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with work and find ourselves not going outside as much as we probably should. Hiking is a great way to get out and relieve stress, but it’s easy to get overwhelmed trying to find the perfect trail!

By: Sanaa Alam ‘25

Are you interested in joining clubs to meet like-minded pre-medical friends while helping the community? Look no further! Here’s a list of clubs I have joined that allow you to serve the community through science and can help you meet friends who you might see in your pre-health classes:

By: Kristen Adams ‘25

While using wheels to navigate campus can be a fun and fast mode of transportation, it is important to keep safety precautions in mind to avoid injuries and embarrassment on busy intersections. Just last week, I had a friend wipe out on her skateboard outside the Village in front of her crush, an event she has yet to emotionally recover from.