The University of Southern California

What was great about USC was the accessibility of the professors, diverse student body, urban location, breadth of inter-disciplinary majors, and academics. As someone who was accepted at another prestigious college (Stanford), I chose USC because it offered me the opportunity to grow intellectually and socially (the place resonates youthful ambition and excitement). I also chose USC because it had a lot of school spirit and loyalty, it has a beautiful, Ivy-covered campus conducive to learning, and further because of its location. The atmosphere of the campus reminded me of old Los Angeles, and USC really is one of California's oldest historical landmarks. Incidentally, as someone who came from a modest background, I was impressed by the fact that virtually all of the people I had met who graduated from USC were successful in their careers. I was intent on joining the "Trojan Club" and becoming successful as well. USC offered me an excellent financial aid package, and I graduated with nominal student loans. Maintaining a good GPA during college also qualified me for additional aid.

While I was a student, I distinguished myself in academics and student government; consequently, I had no problem being accepted at several top law schools, including Penn, Northwestern, Columbia, and Michigan. And I did not graduate at the top of my class. In fact, I encourage top high school students to consider the fact that they would have a better chance of gaining admission to a top professional school if they graduate from USC as opposed to higher ranked universities, where it might be more difficult to distinguish oneself.USC is much more difficult to get into since the year that I matriculated (1978). I like to think that I was part of the school's academic rise inasmuch as some of the brightest people I've met were classmates. Good luck with your decisions, and please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Alumnus Male -- Class 2000

I love this school, it was absolutely a great experience. I must honestly say after doing graduate work at Syracuse University, that the networking that USC provides is absolutely incredible. Our alumni really help each other out, we truly are a second family.

4th Year Female -- Class 1997

Campus Aesthetics: A+, Useful Schoolwork: B+