The University of Southern California

1st Year Female -- Class 2010

Education Quality: A, Perceived Campus Safety: B

USC is a phenomenal school with a wonderful academic program and a talented and thoughtful student body. The caliber of its student body is on par with all the top east coast universities, and the faculty consists of renowned experts in fields ranging from finance to journalism.

What makes USC unique is the way it combines a top-notch academic program with a fun and exciting social life. Take a look around campus on the day of a football game, and you’ll see what I mean – it’s just an incredibly spirited, fun place to be.

I couldn’t be more pleased with my decision to attend USC. It’s been an amazing experience so far. So I have to say, I was surprised when I first read the negative reviews on this website. They certainly don’t mirror the views of most USC students and alumni, who are overwhelmingly proud of their alma mater.

That being said, USC offers a unique atmosphere. It’s different from a lot of other American universities, and it’s not for everyone.

First off, yes, it’s more conservative than most colleges. I don’t see why this is a negative. If you have a problem with conservatives, go live in a hippy commune, like Berkeley. We probably wouldn’t want you here anyway.

Second, and corollary to the first, USC students tend to approach life from a more traditional standpoint. Not traditional in a Brigham Young way, but in a subtle and nuanced sort of way. Girls make a point of looking and acting feminine, while guys make a point of looking and acting masculine. This stands in sharp contrast to schools like Yale, where homosexuality is apparently the new norm (http://jaydixit.com/writing/gayatyale.htm).

Also a note about Greek life: rushing/pledging is a great way to make lifelong friendships and become a part of a wonderful Trojan tradition. Don’t prejudge fraternity and sorority members based on narrow, uninformed stereotypes. I’m Greek and I can attest to the fact that many of my Greek peers are extremely thoughtful and intelligent – not boring at all.

In short, USC is a wonderful school with a unique atmosphere that – while not for everyone – balances work and play in a way unrivaled by other universities.

1st Year Male -- Class 2010

Education Quality: A+,