Dear Future Freshman

By Samantha Steinsapir

Acclimating to a college, or any new school at all can be very intimidating, isolating, and nerve-wracking. However, we are a lot less alone than we may think. A mere conversation with others can ease such feelings rather instantaneously. We tend to feel that we are the only ones experiencing the difficulties of college, but at USC, as of 2021, there are nearly twenty thousand students who are presumably all feeling the same way, to a degree.

After speaking with two sophomore students, Ashley and Sabrina, I feel that this article can confidently be a guide for new students to adapt to their life at USC.

Sabrina and Ashley are both in the similar yet unique position of being Los Angeles natives. The world beyond the campus has been their playground since they were young, meaning that they have insightful information on the city beyond the classroom.

“We are all clearly here for a reason, never forget that” was a common sentiment shared by both Sabrina and Ashley when reflecting on times in which they felt overwhelmed while adapting to USC. Reminding ourselves of this idea can help us reorient and remind ourselves of “Why USC.” We often forget that our presence here is a direct result of our aspirations, ambitions, and hard work.

The most important way to maintain the passion of being a hardworking student is to find a major that not only speaks to you but keeps you inspired and excited for what is to come during each class. Both Sabrina and Ashley are lucky enough to not only have a clear idea of their aspirations in life but were not afraid to select majors that truly interested them. Our society has emphasized the idea of choosing safety over passion, which can cause burnout and a lack of interest. As Ashley said, “I think for any future freshman, they have to realize that life is much harder when you are working for others, than yourself. Life's too short to choose a major and even career because you want to impress others.”

Both interviewees also provided helpful tips on making friends and navigating life in Los Angeles.

“Exhibiting your most authentic self is the most important way to approach making friends and meeting new people.” We are often so worried about making the perfect first impression that we lose ourselves as we are scared to express our authentic selves out of the fear of rejection.

The most efficient and effective way of making friends before starting school, or even during, is to reach out on Instagram direct message, although it is noted by both interviewees that this does take quite a lot of strength as it is rather intimidating to reach out to someone you don't know well. However, “everyone is looking to make friends and is eager to make a new connection.”

Read on for a top 5 list of “Los Angeles loves” created by each interviewee.