University of Southern California (USC)

The University of Southern California boasts "a dynamic and culturally diverse campus located in a world-class city which is equally dynamic and culturally diverse." Everything related to cinema is "top notch." Among the other 150 or so majors here, programs in journalism, business, engineering, and architecture are particularly notable. The honors programs are "very good" too. One of the best perks about USC is its "large and enthusiastic alumni network." Becoming "part of the Trojan Family" is a great way to jumpstart your career because USC graduates love to hire other USC graduates. "Almost everyone talks about getting job offers based solely on going to USC." "The school seems to run very smoothly, with few administrative issues ever being problematic enough to reach the awareness of the USC student community," says an international relations major. The top brass "is a bit mysterious and heavy handed," though. Also, "they milk every dime they can get from you." Academically, some students call the general education courses "a complete waste of time" and note that some professors "seem to just be there because they want to do research." Overall, though, students report professors "make the subject matter come alive" and make themselves "very available" outside the classroom. "My academic experience at USC is fabulous," gushes an aerospace engineering major. "I would not choose any other school."

USC students are "intensely ambitious," and while there are some "complete slackers," many students hit the books "harder than they let on." While some say that "the stereotypical USC student is a surfer fraternity bro or a tan, trendy sorority girl from the O.C." and note that there are "prissy Los Angeles types" and "spoiled" kids who are "extremely good looking," many insist that, "contrary to popular belief, USC has immense diversity." One first-year adds, "No one cares what your orientation is." In some circles, "family income and the brands of clothes you wear definitely matter." And while "there are quite a few who come from mega-wealth, there are also many who are here on a great deal of financial aid." And there are "lots of nerds," too, along with a smattering of "band geeks and film freaks." Whatever your background, the one thing that unites everyone here is "tons of Trojan pride."

On campus, life is "vibrant." There are more than 850 student organizations. Theatrical and musical productions are "excellent." School spirit is "extreme" and "infectious." "Football games are huge." "There is absolutely nothing that can top watching our unbelievable football team throttle the competition," says a merciless sophomore. "Drinking is a big part of the social scene" as well. "We definitely have some of the sickest parties ever," claims an impressed freshman. "Greek life is very big" and, on the weekends, a strong contingent of students "religiously" visits "The Row, the street lined with all the fraternity and sorority houses." Students also have "the sprawling city of Los Angeles as their playground." It's an "eclectic place with both high and low culture and some of the best shopping in the world." "Hollywood clubs and downtown bars" are popular destinations. Art exhibits, concerts, and "hip restaurants" are everywhere. However, "you need a car." Los Angeles traffic may be "a buzz kill," but students report that it's considerably preferable to the "absolutely terrible" public transportation system.