Dorms:
What kind of dorm choices are there? IS random choice a good idea; or posting a note looking for roommates a better idea?
There are 3 'areas' for dorms: Parkside area is on the south edge of campus. Pretty new. Really nice facilities. But its kind of isolated. It has a reputation known as 'darkside' because nothing ever happens there. The north/center area of campus has Trojan Hall, Birnkrant, New North, and a couple of others. These dorms are older and a bit worn down. But because they're so close to together its easier to socialize. Not to mention they're closer to the center of campus, making it easier to go to the library and campus center. Last is Webb/Fluor. This is sort of isolated. But it's close to the gym. I can't really say much about this place because I honestly don't know too much about it. In the end, freshman year is when you want to make new friends. And it's really up to you to do that. Thus if you end up living somewhere further away than most, like parkside, you might have to put in a bit of effort to walk a bit more to classes, events, friend's dorms, and clubs.
Do you know many Seniors/ Juniors that decided to stay on Campus after first 2 years?
Most junior/seniors, if they're not greeklife, will live off campus because its cheaper. That being said, some people are willing to pay to live on campus for convenience. But on campus parking is expensive as hell. So that's also one thing to consider.
Most of the student body belongs to a sorority or fraternity supposedly; is drinking a big deal in these groups?
I'm not in either. But drinking is pretty common for social gatherings for everyone, not just frat/sor. Especially with USC being a football school with tailgates and such. However, I'm sure no ones going to throw you under the bus for not being much of a drinker.
Should I aim for Single Dorms?
I don't think so. If you do, you better make sure you put in the effort to meet knew people and to hang out with them. Freshman often get lazy because of their newfound independence, and never leave their dorm room. I'd recommend joining a club or organization to motivate you more.
How's the Random selection at your dorm life?
It can go good or bad. I roomed with my friend from high school so we were chill. However, my neighbor constantly got sexiled and seemed miserable.
In your opinion what is an absolute necessity that I should be looking for when I go live in a dorm?
From my experience, I don't think it matters where you dorm as long as you're able to properly socialize. But if comfort is an essential factor for you, Parkside is probably the most comfortable, despite it being further away.
Is there any things I should watch out?
If you bring a bike, make sure you learn how to secure it properly. Bike theft is not a joke at USC.
What is the average class size of introductory classes (101) versus Upper Division/Specialized and Honor courses?
Introductory/GE's can range anywhere from 15-150. Upper divs are usually around 20-50, at least for the health field. Don't bother with honors unless you're part of a program that guarantees you a job/gradschool when you graduate.
How widely used are teaching assistants on your campus?
Literally almost every class.
Academic Perks
What opportunities are there for undergraduate research? Have you participated or done any undergraduate research?
Research is generally easy to find on campus if you just email everyone. Its really upt o you to find one that interests you however. They can be time consuming and take away from your study time. And if it doesn't interest you, you're wasting everyones time. That being said, if you do find a good one, the professor can write you a really good recommendation and give you great opportunities, such as publishing papers or going abroad for research.
Graduation Track Record
I hear of a lot of students graduating in 5 years instead of 4 at USC, would you say this is true or any experience you would like to share?
The reason for this is people often realize that their initial major wasn't right for them. It can happen to anybody. But if you know what you want to do for sure, you can graduate in 3 years. It's really up to you to make sure if what you study is really what you want to do.
Do you see a lot of Drop Outs after Freshman Year/After Sophomore Year
I personally know none.
Academic Support
What type of student support services have been offered and how many have you have used?
Not academic per se. The student health center is GARBAGE. They don't prescribe you shit unless you've been suffering symptoms for two weeks. I once walked in with a splitting headache from a flu, and they made me leave with a pack of tylenol. You're better off going to see a personal physician with non-school health insurance.
Do Professors provide academic advice to students? Any experience that defined it as good or bad for you?
Professors are generally good at providing advice to students if you make the time to go to an office hour session. But if you want to get the most of it, you can't just walk in knowing absolutely nothing make a fool of yourself. Its a mutual conversation. However, the good professors often get swamped during office hours and it becomes somewhat of a competition to brown nose in order to get a good recommendation instead of actually learning from them. Ugh.
Outside Opportunities
How many students do you know at the Undergraduate or Graduate get internships outside your college town?
USC has good connections everywhere. But its really up to you to make them.
What percentage of students do you know study abroad? Maybe one out of five. Seems like an awesome experience. But I was stuck doing summer school to make my load during the year easier. It's entirely doable to go abroad as long as you plan your schedule accordingly.
What type of career services have you been offered?
I'm going to the University of Washington in Seattle for pharmacy this fall.