PDF version of this chapterAbout USC
Student Life
The Student Affairs Division has as its fundamental purpose the provision of services and resources to students which will assist them in their total development: physical, social, emotional, cultural, moral and intellectual. As such, the division complements and serves the educational, research and service objectives of faculty and students by designing programs which are an extension of the academic experience. Consistent with this charge, the division has adopted the following statement which informs and guides its policies and actions regarding the USC community.
Principles of Community
USC is a multicultural community of people from diverse racial, ethnic, and class backgrounds, national origins, religious and political beliefs, physical abilities and sexual orientations. Our activities, programs, classes, workshops/lectures and everyday interactions are enriched by our acceptance of one another, and we strive to learn from each other in an atmosphere of positive engagement and mutual respect.We want to make explicit our expectations regarding the behavior of each member of our community. As adults, we are responsible for our behavior and are fully accountable for our actions. We each must take responsibility for our awareness of racism, sexism, ageism, xenophobia, homophobia and other forms of oppression.
Bigotry will not go unchallenged within this community. No one has the right to denigrate another human being on the basis of race, sex, sexual orientation, nation origin, etc. We will not tolerate verbal or written abuse, threats, harassment, intimidation or violence against person or property. In this context, we do not accept alcohol or substance abuse as an excuse, reason or for such abuse, harassment, intimidation or violence. Ignorance or "it was just a joke" is also not an excuse for such behavior.
All who work, live, study and teach in the USC community are here by choice, and as part of that choice should be committed to these principles which are an integral part of USC's focus, goals and mission.
Non-Discrimination Policy
University of Southern California does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, gender, age, Vietnam veteran status, disability or sexual orientation. The University of Southern California seeks compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 which respectively prohibit discrimination. Inquiries regarding these issues may be directed to the director of the Equity and Diversity Office, Figueroa Building, Room 202, (213) 740-5086. Students who wish to file a complaint should contact the Office of the Vice President, Student Affairs, Student Union 201, (213) 740-2421.Academic Support
As the university admits a student body increasingly qualified and motivated academically, Student Affairs is providing increased levels of support for the coordination of honors programs, development of residential hall study space, tutorial support, linkage of career guidance with academic advising, and involvement of faculty in student residence halls and all campus community activities. Such programs are described in the sections which follow. The thematic nature of the individual programs is captured by the guiding principle of "academic community."Career Planning and Placement Center
The USC Career Planning and Placement Center provides information and resource advising to help students explore career options including internships, full-time employment and networking opportunities. The center offers assistance in resume writing, interviewing techniques and sponsors such programs as the Career Fair, Internship Week, numerous "diversity in the workplace" events and the Trojan Network. In addition, the center offers comprehensive career assessment testing. The Career Planning and Placement Center is located on the first floor of the Student Union Building, Room 110, and is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information, call (213) 740-9111 or visit the center's Web site http://careers.usc.eduJob Opportunities
The Career Planning and Placement Center posts current part-time job openings available on and off campus. Many of the jobs listed in the Career Center are work-study positions which are a part of a student's financial aid package. Off-campus internships are available to all students. Students interested in obtaining a campus job should access the online job listing service available 24 hours a day by registering at the site (http://careers.usc.edu).Center for Academic Support
The Center for Academic Support (CAS) is the location of the central resource and referral agency for learning enrichment at USC. CAS staff work with USC faculty, staff and students to complement and enhance optimal use of the educational resources of the university. The goals of this program are to facilitate independent learning, critical thinking, integrative understanding and responsible action.CAS contributes to a collaborative approach to learning in USC's academic community. The staff at CAS works to meet individual student needs as they relate to learning enrichment. Services available include: tutoring and assistance in learning strategies and study skills. CAS offers weekly learning enrichment workshops in goal setting, time management, study skills and concentration and memory, writing skills, test-taking anxiety and note taking. Students can also schedule private workshops for small groups. Services are free to all USC students. A list of learning enrichment workshops is available in the Schedule of Classes.
CAS is located on the third floor of the Student Union Building, Room 301, (213) 740-0776. The center's email address is study@usc.edu. The hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Ethnic Student Programs
USC is strongly committed to enhancing the quality of life for all students attending the university. Unusual efforts have been made to build on the cultural diversity present in our student body. These efforts are coordinated through departments within the Division of Student Affairs. This focus provides opportunities for cross-cultural experiences for all students and a chance to identify a broad range of support services to these specific ethnic minority groups.El Centro Chicano
A department within Student Affairs, El Centro Chicano serves as a resource center for Chicano/Latino students. El Centro provides a variety of services -- academic, social/cultural and outreach -- to the community and serves as headquarters for approximately 15 Chicano/Latino student organizations.Academic Support El Centro offers a variety of support services for students including workshops on study skills, graduate school and choosing a major.
Student Support Realizing that attending college may be a cultural clash for many Chicano/Latino students, El Centro assists students with the transition, in addition to providing cultural awareness to the university.
Community Outreach El Centro is also committed to serving the Chicano/Latino community in promoting higher education. Throughout the year, El Centro works with community schools and agencies on events and activities.
Programs and services offered include Faculty/Student Luncheon, Latino Floors, Latino Honor Society, La Posada, Latino Parent Association, Latino Orientation and the Chicano/Latino Graduation.
El Centro Chicano is located on the third floor of the United University Church (UUC). For more information, contact (213) 740-1480 or visit www.usc.edu/student-affairs/elcentro.
Asian Pacific American Student Services
The Asian Pacific American Student Services (APASS) department assists students in their cultural and personal development during their years at USC. The department links students to various opportunities both in and out of the university and to Asian Pacific American communities.APASS' mission is to enable students to complete their academic studies more successfully; to participate fully in university life through activities and programs; to develop leadership, communication and interpersonal skills; and to become knowledgeable about and involved with the Asian Pacific American community and identity.
APASS programs include leadership development, orientation, community resources and information, career and peer mentoring, cultural and educational programs, academic collaborations, and individual and collective advocacy.
APASS is located in the Student Union Building, Room 410, (213) 740-4999. For more information, email apass@usc.edu or visit www.usc.edu/apass.
Center for Black Cultural and Student Affairs
The mission of the Center for Black Cultural and Student Affairs (CBCSA) is to provide a wide range of support services, programs and activities aimed at the development of both undergraduate and graduate students.CBCSA's goal is to create an environment that encourages the intellectual, professional and cultural growth of African-American students entering and completing degree programs.
CBCSA meets its goal by targeting five major areas of focus: cultural and community development, leadership, professional development, retention and social enrichment. All CBCSA services and programs are initiated in accordance with the five targets.
CBCSA maintains various programs and services include: the African-American Resource Handbook, African American Honor Society, African-Centered Leadership Academy, Black Family Weekend, Black Graduation, Black History Month, Diversity Career Workshop Series, Historically Black College and University Exchange Program, Marcus Garvey Service Learning Project, pre-college and community outreach, Somerville Place and Welcome Week activities.
CBCSA is located in the Student Union Building, Room 415, (213) 740-8257. For more information, email cbcsa@usc.edu or visit www.usc.edu/cbcsa.
International Services
The Office of International Services (OIS), located in the Student Union Building, Room 300, assists more than 6,000 non-immigrant students, scholars, faculty and staff associated with USC in achieving their educational, professional and personal objectives. In addition, academic departments and research units receive assistance from OIS in completing the immigration formalities for hiring foreign nationals for both short-term and career appointments. OIS recognizes the many benefits of international educational exchange, and promotes these benefits both within the university and throughout the local community. On campus, OIS aims to provide opportunities for interaction among international and domestic students, scholars, faculty and staff through programs and activities with an international and intercultural focus.These programs include:
International Student Orientation -- a comprehensive program of information sessions and social opportunities offered in fall and spring semesters.
State of the World Seminars -- held once each semester featuring panels of international students and faculty experts speaking on topics of current world political, social and economic interest.
World Documentary Series -- video screenings of independent documentaries that focus on current world political, social and economic issues, followed by a short discussion.
International Diners' Club -- monthly excursions to a wide variety of Los Angeles ethnic restaurants.
LA Today -- several outings each semester to places in Los Angeles not included on the typical tourist path.
World Café -- monthly coffee hours highlighting a particular country or region of the world and featuring regional refreshments.
English Language Program -- English Language instruction, field trips and social activities for spouses, relatives and friends of the USC international community.
Thanksgiving Match-up -- host families invite international students into their homes to celebrate Thanksgiving and help students learn more about American culture in general.
For more information about any of OIS' services or programs, refer to the Web site www.usc.edu/student-affairs/OIS.
Parking and Transportation
Parking
The university maintains more than 6,000 on-campus parking spaces and approximately 4,000 off-campus spaces. Specific information on available parking facilities, as well as parking permits, commute/rideshare information, and escort and tram services can be obtained in the TrojanTransportation Office, Childs Way Building. Transportation information can also be accessed at www.usc.edu/parking or by calling 213-740-3575.Recreational Sports
Recreational Sports welcomes all members of the university community to participate in its extensive services and sports programs. The office provides students, faculty and staff with numerous opportunities for sports and recreational activities and seeks to educate individuals in the meaningful use of leisure time.The staff direct more than 100 sporting programs that attract 9,500 students, staff and faculty participants and 800 club sport members. Intramurals sports offers a wide array of activities including: basketball, soccer, racquet sports and softball. Popular club sport teams include soccer, golf, ice hockey, hiking, dance and water skiing. Leisure classes and wellness programs such as aerobics, yoga, personal trainers, Masters Swim and massage therapy are also available.
Recreational Facilities
The University Park campus offers many recreational facility choices including: the Lyon University Center, McDonalds Swim Stadium, Cromwell Field, Loker Track Stadium, intramural field, Marks Tennis Stadium, a student tennis court complex and the Physical Education Building which houses an indoor swimming pool, basketball court and aerobic/dance studios.The Lyon University Center, the largest recreational facility on campus, includes the McDonalds Swim Stadium, sauna and jacuzzi; fitness studio (aerobic programs); Klug Family fitness center (weight room); gymnasium space for basketball and volleyball, racquetball and squash courts; and a cardiovascular center equipped with stationary bicycles, stair climbers, elliptical machines, rowing machines, and cross training equipment. Locker rental and towel service are provided for a fee. Guests, alumni and emeriti faculty are welcome to the center and participate in its programs.
For information regarding student employment and volunteer opportunities, guest policies, conferences, recreational services, summer youth sports programs, personal trainers and facility reservations, call (213) 740-5127 or visit Recreational Sports Web site at www.usc.edu/recsports.
Residential Choices
USC provides attractive residence opportunities which complement its educational objectives. The university believes that the living experiences in residential colleges, residence halls and university apartments offer a desirable and important part of the total educational experience. University housing provides the setting for students, faculty and staff to come together and create an academic residential community. The goal is to combine a high degree of informal contact and a strong desire to explore the world of ideas in the development of an intellectually stimulating environment. USC recommends that students consider the advantages of these programs and live on campus in one of these facilities for at least a portion of the time in which they are enrolled. Fraternities and sororities also offer an opportunity for a residential experience to student members.USC TrojanHousing
USC's academic residential community reflects a conscious attempt on the part of the university to bring students, faculty and staff together in a setting where friendships and intellectual life can flourish at many levels of contact. USC houses over 6,500 students in over 40 university-owned single and family student housing facilities. The residence hall style of living is available on a semester payment plan. The rooms are furnished and are designed to accommodate two students each. In residence halls, bathrooms are usually communal and dining services are in close proximity. The apartment style of living requires more independence. The apartment units are furnished, with most having standard kitchens, bathroom facilities and living areas. Units are designed to house two, three, four or five students per apartment, depending on the number and size of bedrooms. Furnished apartments for students with families are also available.The goal of the university is to offer applicants housing in a variety of living alternatives. Freshmen who apply by the freshman housing application deadline are assured to receive university housing during their first year at USC. Freshmen who apply after the deadline will be housed as space permits, but everything possible is done to provide them with freshman housing. Once a student is in university housing, he or she may continue in housing by participating in the priority period assignment process each winter. Housing assignments are made during the priority period for the following year. Assignments are made based on a lottery process.
Housing assignments for incoming new students for the fall semester are made throughout the summer. Student assignments are made on a first-come, first-served basis and subject to space availability.
Housing Services Office
The TrojanHousing Office is responsible for processing the housing applications for students for the academic year and summer sessions. The TrojanHousing Office and each on-site Customer Service Center may issue housing contracts, assignments, reassignments and releases from contracts.Applications for student housing for new students are mailed with the admissions acceptance letter. Questions may be directed to the TrojanHousing Office, Parking Structure X, (213) 740-2546 or (800) 872-4632; FAX: (213) 740-8488, housing@usc.edu.
Residential Education Office
Residential Education supervises the university programs and live-in staff in the housing system. Special interest housing and faculty-student programs, including residential colleges, are coordinated by this office, located in the Student Union Building, Room 200, (213) 740-2080.Special Interest Housing
USC established its first comprehensive residential college in 1987 and currently offers five such programs on campus. Undergraduate as well as faculty members live in Birnkrant Residential College. Being a part of the community of students, scholars and faculty at Birnkrant Residential College is available to freshman and returning residents.North Residential College and New Residential College are especially attractive to students with an interest in communication arts and sciences, business, multicultural interaction and cinema. Students of all undergraduate class levels are eligible for residency.
The International Residential College at Parkside provides a venue where undergraduate and graduate students as well as live-in USC faculty and visiting professors come together to promote stimulating cultural and intellectural exchanges among individuals from many countries. This community includes both freshman and returning students. A supplemental application is required for residents of this facility.
Marks and Trojan Deans' Halls provide a rich intellectual environment for incoming freshman honors students.
Annenberg Multimedia Program, Hillview, Honors House, and Sierra bring together highly motivated students and interested faculty to increase faculty-student interaction.
The university offers special housing programs to stimulate intellectual and cultural development outside of the classroom. The Faculty/Staff Mentor program assigns non-resident faculty members to most housing units. The faculty members eat meals with the students and become involved with the life of the living unit.
Other programs bring together students with a special common interest. These include Substance Free Living Environment, SChalom (Jewish religion and culture) Housing, the Quiet Community Floor, Law Program (law students only), Occupational Therapy Program (majors only), and the Muslim, Latino, African-American, Business, Women in Science and Engineering, Rainbow (LGBT) and Cinema floors. Information on these special interest housing programs is available in "Living at USC" which students receive with their acceptance packet. Call Residential Education, (213) 740-2080, for further information.
Fraternities and Sororities
The majority of USC fraternities and sororities have houses on or near 28th Street, "The Row." The cost to members living in one of these houses is comparable to the cost of living in the residence halls. Those members not living in the fraternity or sorority houses pay a fee which provides them with most privileges other than rooms. Housing in most fraternities and sororities is limited; students who plan to participate in Rush (membership recruitment), which occurs after the start of classes, should make alternate arrangements to be assured of having housing. Joining a fraternity or sorority is not sufficient reason to be released from a university housing contract. Further information regarding housing and activities in fraternities or sororities may be obtained from the Fraternity and Sorority Leadership Development Office, Student Union Building, Room 200, (213) 740-2080.Family Student Housing
Students with families wishing university housing should apply to the Housing Services Office, Parking Structure X, (213) 740-2546. Family housing located north of campus has furnished one-bedroom and a very limited number of two-bedroom apartments.Child Care
Students with families can apply to enroll their children in the Anna Bing Arnold Child Care Center. The program operates in three sites located on the University Park and Health Sciences campuses. There are programs for infants, toddlers, pre-school and after school care. The focus is on personal and social growth, developing motor coordination and positive self-image and providing a good first school experience. Full- and part-time enrollment is available and a monthly fee is charged.Student Athlete Academic Services
The SAAS program was established to provide student athletes with the academic support necessary for them to achieve their goal of a USC degree. By providing services through the Athletic Department such as general counseling, advisement and problem solving along with orientation, registration assistance, grade monitoring, study table and tutoring, SAAS helps student athletes fulfill the university's academic expectations for them and also helps each of them to achieve their own personal academic goals.Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards
Procedural and advisory matters, as well as the integrity of the student conduct system, are the responsibility of the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards.The Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards reviews student conduct and academic integrity matters. A complete description of the student conduct system is printed in SCampus, USC's student guidebook. Additional information can also be found on the Web site at www.usc.edu/student-affairs/SJACS.
Students with Disabilities
Disability Services and Programs (DSP) is dedicated to maintaining an environment that ensures all students with documented disabilities at USC equal access to its educational programs, activities and facilities. Accommodations are designed to level the playing field for students with disabilities, while maintaining the integrity and standards of each of our academic programs.Accommodations are determined on a case-by-case basis, but some examples of typical accommodations include: assistance in providing note-takers, sign language interpreters, readers, scribes, advocacy with faculty, modified exam proctoring, assistance with architectural barriers, accessible seating at USC sporting events, alternative text formats, adaptive technology, referrals to community resources, support groups and other support services for individual needs that are unique to a student's disability.
The office is located in Student Union Building, Room 301, and is open Monday through Friday; 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., (213) 740-0776 (voice), (213) 740-6948 (TDD only) or email ability@usc.edu.
Student Health and Counseling Centers
The University Park Health Center (Student Health and Counseling Centers) is a full-service health center licensed by the state of California and staffed with dedicated, licensed professionals. Services include clinical care designed to meet most health care needs and referral services for professional medical care that the Student Health and Counseling Centers may not be able to provide. Supplemental health insurance will help cover the cost of health care which cannot be obtained at the Student Health and Counseling Centers. For more information, contact the center at (213) 740-5344 (WELL) or consult the center's Web site at www.usc.edu/uphc.The University Park Health Center is located at 849 West 34th Street. During the fall and spring semesters, the center is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. In addition to Sundays and holidays, the health center is closed on Saturdays and evenings (5 p.m. to 7 p.m.) during holiday weeks and university recess periods.
Eligibility for Services
All students taking six or more units during fall or spring semester pay the student health fee and are eligible for services. Students with less than six units and spouses of students may choose to pay the fee and receive services. Students enrolled in the supplemental health insurance plan are required to pay the student health fee. Most services are available at no additional charge. Moderate fees are charged for selected services such as laboratory tests, prescriptions, orthopedic appliances, copies of X-rays and medical records. Students may use the services of the University Park Health Center (UPHC) throughout the semester, as well as during breaks between academic sessions, as long as they are continuing students and are registered for the following semester.During the summer months, students may use the services of the University Park Health Center if they are continuing students and pay the summer fee.
Note: Students enrolled in classes on the University Park campus will receive their health care service at the University Park Health Center. Students enrolled in classes on the Health Sciences campus will receive their health care service at the Eric Cohen Student Health Center on the Health Sciences campus.
Primary Care
For the treatment of most acute illnesses and injuries, a primary care appointment can be scheduled Monday through Friday. Students can call (213) 740-2778 (APPT) or come to the Health Center and make an appointment to see the practitioner of their choice.Specialty Care
Dermatology, allergy, internal medicine, orthopedics, acupuncture, chiropratic and physical therapy appointments are made by a referral from a primary care practitioner only. Routine gynecology appointments may be made without a referral. A specialty appointment may be scheduled by calling (213) 740-2778 (APPT).Urgent and Emergency Services
For students who have an illness or injury, which requires urgent medical attention, the University Park Health Center Acute Care Clinic is open during regular clinic hours. If a student's medical condition requires attention during the hours the University Park Health Center is closed, he or she may speak to a registered nurse by calling (213) 740-9355 and following the directions on the recorded message. In the event of a life-threatening medical emergency on or near the USC campus, call the Department of Public Safety at (213) 740-4321. For an off-campus emergency, contact emergency services by dialing 911.Ancillary Services
A clinical laboratory and a radiology unit support the practitioners' services. Students must pay any charges incurred for diagnostic tests and occasionally may be referred to outside facilities. Short-term physical therapy services are provided at the University Park Health Center.Prescriptions may be obtained, for a charge, at the University Park Pharmacy located in the Student Union Building.
Health Promotion and Prevention Services
Part of the mission of the Health Center is to promote health and prevent disease. By participating in the programs Health Promotion and Prevention Services offers, students can get involved in the maintenance of their health and work to create an environment to support a healthy lifestyle.Alcohol and drug education programs are a multifaceted effort to provide educational programs, referral and information about alcohol and other drugs to the campus community. The focus is on informed choice, positive peer influence and early intervention. The Drug Education Course provides basic information to students experiencing trouble.
Health Promotion and Prevention Services (HPPS) offers a health resource room that provides students a place to work on a paper, speech, find personal health information, check out books and pamphlets, access online health Web sites, screen a video, take a computerized health risk assessment or pick up condoms. The resource room is located in Room 206 of the University Park Health Center.
Sexually transmitted diseases including HIV can be prevented. Outreach programs and workshops focus on stopping transmission. An anonymous HIV antibody test program with pre- and post-test counseling is available for a small fee.
The HPPS department is available to schedule a healthy lifestyle workshop presentation in residence halls, Greek houses or student organizations on a wide variety of topics such as low risk drinking, stress, choosing contraception, nutrition and HIV disease. For information on these services call (213) 740-4777 (HPPS) or visit the Health Promotion and Prevention Services' Web site at www.usc.edu/hpps.
Vaccinations
The USC University Park Health Center strongly recommends that all incoming freshmen receive the meningococcal meningitis vaccination before coming to campus, or as soon as possible after arrival.Meningococcal meningitis is a serious illness that can lead to brain damage, disability and death. College freshmen, particularly those who live in residence halls, have a modestly increased risk of getting this disease. A vaccine is available that protects against four of the five most common strains and provides protection for three to five years. For more information on this disease, refer to www.usc.edu/uphc.
Counseling Services
Counseling services are available on the University Park campus at the Counseling Center located in the YWCA Building.Services are provided to help enhance students' skills and attitudes in adapting to college life, creatively handling stresses and challenges, relating to new and different people and making their USC experience satisfying and productive. Eligible students may be seen in a group, as a couple or individually, and all personal information discussed in counseling is kept confidential.
The professional staff of the Counseling Center is an ethnically and educationally diverse group which includes psychologists, social workers and a staff psychiatrist. They are highly trained and experienced in helping students successfully cope with a variety of issues and concerns that are common during their college experience. Additionally, advanced graduate interns in clinical and counseling psychology and social work trainees provide a variety of services to students.
Further information is available by calling (213) 740-7711 or by visiting the Student Counseling Services' Web site at www.usc.edu/scs. For evening or weekend emergencies, contact the USC Department of Public Safety at (213) 740-4321.
Student Involvement
USC offers broad and diverse opportunities for student involvement and leadership development, ranging from formal and highly organized elective offices to very informal sharing of common interests and enthusiasms. For more information, visit the Web site at www.usc.edu/ca.Student Senate
The Senate is the undergraduate campus-wide student government consisting of legislative, programming, judicial and executive branches, whose collective purpose is to provide comprehensive representation which fosters maximum student participation. It exists to represent the interests of the students to the administration on campus issues through an extensive programming and committee structure.Opportunities for involvement and leadership can be found in several committees such as campus affairs, political affairs, minority affairs, and academic affairs to name a few. Offices are located in the Student Union Building, Room 106. Or visit the Web site at senate.usc.edu.
Program Board
Major student events and activities at USC are sponsored by the Program Board which represents a diverse group of student interests and organizations. The assemblies and programming committees are student-run groups that promote diversity and entertainment through progressive and innovative event programming. The student programming fee allows Program Board to plan a multitude of social, political and educational events for the USC community. These events include concerts, speakers, cultural events and various other activities.Recreation Club Council
The Recreation Club Council (RCC) represents the leadership of all club teams recognized by Recreational Sports and the Office of Campus Activities. RCC provides organizational development, leadership opportunities, program coordination and administrative support.Graduate and Professional Student Senate
The Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS) is recognized as the official voice of the graduate student body. Representatives to the senate are elected by their peers according to academic departments and meet regularly to address the issues and concerns of the graduate student population. GPSS allocates graduate student programming fee monies to academic-based student organizations as well as to students traveling to present papers at professional conferences. GPSS appoints graduate and professional students to university committees, and maintains three funding boards to encourage cross-disciplinary programs, social and recreational activities and community service.An executive committee oversees the daily operations of the senate and offers graduate students an opportunity to become involved in the university community outside their academic discipline. The GPSS office is located in the Student Union Building, Room 106. Graduate and professional students wishing to become involved should call (213) 740-5649 or visit www.usc.edu/gpss for more information.
Student Organizations
More than 600 clubs and organizations exist with new ones added each year. Participation affords new experiences, new friendships and the opportunity to pursue an interest to higher levels of understanding and accomplishment. These organizations address a wide range of political, academic, religious, social service and recreational interests. For more information, visit www.usc.edu/stuorgs.Honor Societies
Most departments and schools have an academic organization oriented toward a specific discipline. Honor societies have a selective membership process which is usually based on one or more of the following requirements: area of study, grade point average, university involvement, leadership and community service. A comprehensive list of academic honor societies is included in SCampus.Topping Student Center
Topping Student Center serves as the community center for USC. It provides meeting spaces, lounges, computers, phones and the campus information desk.Topping Student Center staff provide information about upcoming events and assist with scheduling facilities for the university community. Peer Leadership Consultants are available at the center to advise student organizations, suggest program ideas and offer advice on ways to improve an organizations's effectiveness. The consultants also provide information regarding funding sources and procedures, promotion techniques, event planning, university facilities, resources and leadership skills.
For more information about Topping Student Center, please visit http://www.usc.edu/student-affairs/CampusCenter/index.php or call (213) 740-5693.
Spectrum
USC Spectrum, a program of the Division of Student Affairs, presents an annual season of arts and lecture programs by nationally and internationally known attractions for the education and entertainment of the USC community and its neighbors in Los Angeles.Spectrum also co-produces the annual College of Letters, Arts and Sciences Lecture Series and the President's Distinguished Artist and Lecture Series.
For more information about Spectrum, please visit www.usc.edu/student-affairs/spectrum or call (213) 740-2167.
Facilities
Student programs at USC are accommodated by a number of indoor and outdoor facilities including Bovard Auditorium, the Topping Student Center, academic classrooms, Hahn Plaza, Alumni Park, Founders Park, Associates Park, E.F. Hutton Park, McCarthy Quad, Norris and Bing theatres.Immediately adjoining the campus is Exposition Park with its extensive complex of museums, gardens and athletic facilities. Each represents an important educational and recreational adjunct to the campus itself. The Los Angeles Coliseum is home to Trojan football, as is the Sports Arena to basketball. The grounds of Exposition Park are used by students for picnics, games and other informal events.
USC Volunteer Center (UVC)
The Volunteer Center organizes several community service projects, identifying volunteer opportunities for USC students, faculty and staff, and also houses an extensive database of over 100 entries of service agencies that provide volunteer opportunities to the USC family. Programs include CAST (Community Action Short-term Team), Friends and Neighbors Service Day, Alternative Spring Break, mentoring opportunities and more. Individuals wishing to volunteer may visit the UVC, located in Student Union Building 202, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or call 740-7012.Student Media Organizations
A number of on-campus media facilities are operated by students, allowing them to develop their journalistic talents and air their opinions while providing a service to the campus community.Campus Newspaper
The Daily Trojan is the official student campus newspaper. Its coverage includes campus news, editorials, sports, features about campus activities and events, an entertainment section, and letters to the editor. Published Monday through Friday, the paper is distributed free in kiosks located in various parts of the campus and in the Student Publications Office, Student Union Building, Room 404, (213) 740-2707.USC Yearbook
El Rodeo, USC's yearbook, highlights events of the year. It is usually purchased as part of the Spirit Activity Card (season ticket) and distributed in the late spring. The El Rodeo office is located in the Student Union Building, Room 405, (213) 740-5639.Radio Station
KSCRadio is the official campus radio station broadcasting live at 1560 AM. KSCR is also available live via the Internet and can be accessed at http://kscrradio.com. It is the student source for music, news, sports and information. Located on the first floor of Marks Hall, the station broadcasts seven days a week. Students may work in sales, engineering, public relations and programming. Call 740-KSCR (740-5727) for music requests and additional information.Trojan Marching Band
At 250 members strong, the Trojan Marching Band is the largest student spirit group on campus and a highly visible ambassador representing USC in the local community, the nation and the world. The band's history dates back to 1881. Since that time, the band has developed into one of the most innovative marching bands in the country.
Nicknamed The Spirit of Troy, the band presents a new, energetic halftime show at every home football game and sends a portion of the band to each away football game -- with the full band traveling annually to the Bay Area and biennially to South Bend, Indiana for the game against Notre Dame.
The Spirit of Troy is busy year-round supporting the USC athletic teams as well as appearing in movies, on television and at special events throughout the world. In 2003, the band was the first marching band from the United States to appear at the internationally-televised Chinese New Year Parade in Hong Kong. The band has also performed at Super Bowls, the World Cup and the Olympics.
The band is also frequently referred to as "Hollywood's Band" because of its many appearances on the silver and small screen. The Spirit of Troy has appeared in such feature films as Forrest Gump and The Naked Gun and has performed at two Academy Awards telecasts and at the 2004 Grammy Awards.
The Trojan Marching Band is the only collegiate marching band to possess two platinum albums for its collaboration with the rock group Fleetwood Mac on the hit single "Tusk." The band also recorded the single "Hit That" for the punk band The Offspring in 2003. The Spirit of Troy has traveled to five continents for such events as the 50th Anniversary of D-Day in Normandy and the World Expositions in Australia, Spain, Portugal and Japan. For more information about the Trojan Marching Band, please visit its Web site www.uscband.com.
Travel Service
STA Travel is USC's designated student travel agency. STA is located in the University Village and provides a complete range of travel services to the entire USC community, particularly to the cost-conscious student consumer.For family and friends visiting the campus for special events such as graduation, orientation and Trojan Family weekend, STA offers discounted airfare rates, discounted rental cars and special rates at nearby hotels.
STA is involved in developing a wide variety of travel products for students traveling, studying and/or working abroad. STA works closely with USC's Overseas Study program and can coordinate travel arrangements for those planning to study abroad.
STA Travel is the world's largest student travel agency, operating over 200 travel agencies on or near university campuses around the world. Visit STA Travel in the University Village (across from Burger King and near Gate #1) or call (213) 743-4782 (4STA). STA Travel is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Saturday. Further information is available at http://adminweb.usc.edu/travel/student_alumni.