I am notorious for being indecisive, and choosing which college to attend was no exception. I applied to 12 schools and was accepted into 10. I was lucky enough to visit half of those colleges, which actually made my decision even more difficult because I fell for different aspects of each school. I eventually settled upon USC because it seemed to offer the most of what I was looking for and, while I am still uncertain whether I love the vibe or not, USC is an amazing university. In no particular order, here are just some of the reasons why I ultimately decided on USC.

1. Alumni Association

Once you’re a Trojan, you’re a Trojan for life. The alum network helps students form valuable connections and earn scholarships and snag internships. Not to mention, they contribute hugely to the university each year and offer careers to numerous students/alumni.

2. School spirit

School spirit was a huge draw for me because I had always envisioned that college would be like movies: the football games, tailgating, Friday night lights. While college is not exactly like filmmakers portray, USC definitely embodies school spirit: game days are a sea of cardinal and gold. Also, Greek life is fairly widespread so it’s always there if I decide I want to be a part of it. Fight on!

3. Private (versus public)

USC has small to medium class sizes for almost every subject, and even the general lectures are bearable sizes. The professors teach classes themselves, are relatively easy to get in touch with, and care about how their students perform. Resources are also generally spread thicker at private universities.

4. Tradition

USC is very fond of tradition, as can be seen during football games with tailgating and events like New Student Convocation. The university is also traditional in the sense that it offers “the college experience.” What I mean by this is that there are typical college dorms, lecture halls how one might imagine them, and the possibility for an amazing social life. Tradition rules.

5. Academics

Obviously, academics were a huge part of my choice because this is the main reason one goes to college! USC has several strong suits, from business to engineering. I am majoring in environmental studies (B.S.), and the major program is unique to the school, which I like. So far I have been able to get the classes I need and want, and I still have some freedom to choose classes to explore different subject matter.

6. Location

Location, location, location! Okay, maybe USC’s immediate surroundings aren’t the best but it’s smack dab in the middle of everything. 2 metro stations, a 20 minute Uber ride from Union Station, 10 minutes away from downtown, right across from The Shrine, and in the hub of pop culture…what more could you ask for?

7. Weather

There is no denying that SoCal weather is beautiful. I can’t get enough of the sunshine and the beautiful sunsets that overtake the campus each evening. When it does rain, it’s usually not very much, thank goodness. I love being able to wear shorts for more than half of the school year.

8. Size

USC has around 18,000 undergraduates. Not too small, but not overwhelming, either. You can make the 15-minute trek across campus and see several familiar faces. Same with the dining hall: you’ll always see friends but you’ll also always see people you’ve never come across before.

9. Campus

USC’s campus is stunning and there are around 30 gorgeous fountains, countless roses, and stunning architecture everywhere you turn. My personal favorite part of campus is the center, with Tommy Trojan and Traveler. I also love the brick theme there, plus Doheny Library is a beauty.