By: Ngai Yeung ‘23

Every Tuesday from 12-1pm, USC students can grab a vegan meal from the pop-up Jubilee Vegan Cafe at the University Religious Center. I’m lucky enough to not have class during that time slot, and being a huge fan of free food, I’m there pretty much every Tuesday. Here’s my review of some of the fascinating meals they’ve served throughout this semester.

By: Sanaa Alam ‘25

One of the best parts of the winter holidays is cuddling next to the fireplace with a warm cup of hot chocolate or cider, spending time with family and friends, and watching holiday movies! As an avid rom-com watcher, here’s my favorite 90s and early 2000s movies perfect for embracing the holiday vibes this winter season!

By: Lanie Brice ‘24

With the holidays already upon us, you might be scrambling to think of last minute gifts for everyone on your list. This gift guide is focused on keeping gift giving affordable (everything is under $50) and heartfelt. Hopefully it will spark some inspiration to make your friends and family think you read their mind.

By: Hannah Skinner ‘23

If you didn’t know already, USC students have free access to both HBO Max and Showtime! Now that winter break is coming up it’s the perfect time to flex your free accounts and have a movie night at home with friends and family. Here are 10 movies to add to your watchlist.  

By: Nancy Aguilar Sanchez ‘22

I tend to be more drawn to films that are character driven, but this one is more thematically driven and does it well. It touches on themes of mental health, fame, and consumer culture. It’s an exploration and scrutiny of audience consumption, so as a viewer, you find yourself questioning why you’re watching this film and the ethics behind what you consume.

By: Kathryn Aurelio ‘25

Four ignored alarms later, I finally roll off my foam-topped mattress, brush my teeth, and apply skincare and make-up all by 8 am I throw my homework, laptop, charger, sketchbook, pens, keys, water bottle, AirPods, and a Clif Bar into my tote bag. The past two semesters, I’ve had the unique experience of taking classes in four of USC’s schools–dabbling in Annenberg, Roski, Thornton, and the School of Cinematic Arts. It’s extremely fulfilling being a “Renaissance Woman” of sorts–educating myself in different fields of study and striving to enhance creativity through several outlets.

By: Kathryn Aurelio ‘25

As the semester ends and you’re cramming a semester’s worth of information into Quizlet flashcards, food can start to feel irrelevant (here’s your reminder to nourish yourself and get your meal swipe’s worth while you still can!). Whether you have 30 unused swipes or have an unlimited plan, here’s a quick guide to USC’s campus dining halls.

By: Lauren Liang ‘23

Before I came to USC as a Cognitive Science major, I spent the entirety of my high school career at a performing arts school. Although I genuinely enjoy my major, it’s a totally different wheelhouse from the joy I feel when I’m breaking down a script, singing my heart out, or creatively collaborating with friends. If you’re in a similar position, here are some of the ways you can get involved as an artist!

By: Ela Rybak ‘25

Meeting new people can also be as easy as running into classmates in the elevator or around campus or making plans to study together for upcoming tests. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone by participating in fun activities because you never know where you will meet your next friend!

By: Ela Rybak ‘25

Sometimes I only have half an hour to catch up with family and friends, but recently, I’ve recognized how much better I feel when I take time to do things unrelated to work or school. Here’s some inspiration for hobbies and activities that will help your well-being during this hectic season.

By: Joshen Mantai ‘24 (USC Student Life Guest Blogger)

When I first got to USC as a graduate student at Annenberg, I didn’t know what to expect for my experience, especially at a university in the middle of such a big city. Would it be like my undergraduate experience at UC Santa Barbara, or did I have to prepare myself for a whole new environment with a separate identity? So, for any incoming or current graduate students, I’m sharing what I’ve learned through my first semester experience so far.

By: Kristen Adams ‘25

Hopped off the plane at LAX with a dream and my cardigan! After living on the East Coast for 19 years of my life, here’s what I’ve learned from attending college in Los Angeles, almost 3,000 miles away from home.