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The University of Southern California

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Students concerned about university prestige and outstandingQuite BrightBusiness - Management and Administration
Students concerned about university prestige and outstanding academics should avoid the University of Southern California. USC is more of a place for social development than intellectual development - and so far, I believe that I made the right decision to come here.

About 50% of the Greek scene treat most non-Greek students like outsiders. The other half? Most of them are great people, great in the classroom and great to know. While the academic environment of this university has been accelerating, the Greek scene has (fortunately?) been dropping off.

Warning: this university is extremely decentralized, with tremendous power given to the individual schools and departments. So while USC might claim that undergraduate education is its first priority in its strategic plan (and it is), the same doesn't hold true for many schools - ESPECIALLY business and engineering, which seem to be focusing far more on their graduate programs while destroying the student experience for the undergraduates.Quality of life is definitely high here, and those looking to get their degree and get out will love the experience and benefit from the extensive "Trojan Family." However, for serious students looking to get involved in their education, you'll be surprised at the barriers that USC will throw in front of you.

1st Year Male -- Class 2004
Extracurricular Activities: A+, Faculty Accessibility: B-
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USC is definitely a school of great prestige,Quite BrightJournalism
USC is definitely a school of great prestige, and the degree that has the USC emblem is sure to get one far. In many areas USC reigns high above other schools, especially in communication and film. I'll freely admit this is a large greek campus--a great percentage of the people are in a frat. or sorority. Being the cynical, individualistic, noncomforist type I have been since high school, I was slightly disgusted at some of the snooty and immature attitudes of a lot of people here. That was all first glance though, and when I moved past my awful pre-judgements I actually found some awesome, intelligent frat. guys and sorority girls. (which I didn't think was possible) USC is a place for everyone. College isn't a clique anymore, and the greek guys and girls can mix with the emo kids beautifully. There really is a place for everyone, and on an academic level, it is just a fantastic school.
1st Year Female -- Class 2005
Education Quality: A+, Useful Schoolwork: B
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This school is a mixed bag for me.BrightComputer Science
This school is a mixed bag for me. On one hand there are some great teachers, fun sports events and a great reputation. On the other hand, some of the math and Computer Science teachers don't speak the best English, and often teach straight out of the book.

Despite all the comments from my friends about "going to school in the ghetto," the environment isn't that bad, but you'll be very bored without a car.

While some students seem friendly, it seems like there is a majority of fraternity/sorority people (I'd say at least 50%) who seem downright arrogant or snooty if you aren't "one of them." (I'm not being biased, I must admit I've met a few nice Greek people.) I did come to college to meet new people, and if I end up transferring, this would probably be the reason.I'd probably have an easier time getting a job with a USC degree, but remember, prestiege doesn't matter if you aren't happy where you are...

1st Year Male -- Class 2005
Surrounding City: A, Faculty Accessibility: C-
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The University of Southern California
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