Spring Admits - What to do your Fall Semester!
By: Camila Grases ‘21
It’s always exciting to receive your acceptance letter in the mail, but sometimes, it can be overwhelming when you find yourself with an unplanned free semester. So what are your options for the fall semester? Fortunately, USC provides plenty of options for those students.
1. Study Abroad
Get a head start on your “college experience” by jumping straight into the mix. USC offers many exchange programs where admits are almost always automatically enrolled. These Universities include American University of Paris and Franklin University Switzerland.
For those of you who feel independent and ready for something new, this is your chance to explore more of the world and more of what you like. After all, there’s no better way to get to know yourself than throwing yourself into something that is completely new.
2. Community College
Community College is also a great way to get ahead on your studies, especially if keeping up with your USC peers is your biggest concern. It was the path I personally chose, and I am always grateful for the experience. Community College, to me, was the perfect transition from high school to college. You stay at home and in your community but are granted the independence and the level of academics you would expect from a regular college.
This is also a great time to get involved in things you had not previously considered. Because you will only be there one semester, go all out. Join clubs, be a part of a team, get to know your professors. All of this is training for when you finally enter USC in the spring.
3. Work/Internship
If, however, you are completely exhausted from high school, and you feel like you need a break from studying and school, there are other options. Internships and jobs are a great way to stay active during your semester off. The experience can also come in handy during your time at USC. Earning money and staying proactive in your education without needing to attend school are great qualities.
Whatever internship or job you chose, though, make sure it’s something you enjoy. Burning out before school even starts would be a real bummer considering the amazing experiences you will have here.
4. Gap Semester
Gap semesters are a little different from searching for jobs or internships. This is a true break from any external responsibility. Instead, it is on you to fill these precious months with excitement and experiences that will make you feel fulfilled in many ways. You can take this time to volunteer or to see the world or both!
Make this time meaningful and you will not enter USC the same person you were when you first got accepted.
Generally, there is nothing to worry about when entering as a spring admit. You will make your friends and enjoy the same experiences; a semester late, yes, but you can view this as an advantage, not a disadvantage. You have gotten to experience other parts of the world while your peers were at USC, and you will value that time you do get to spend at the University even more. Enjoy it while it lasts.
*For more information on spring admits, click here
Want more from Trojans 360?
Visit Trojans 360 on Facebook & Twitter to stay up to date with more student content!
You can also Ask A Trojan an anonymous question, and we’ll try to answer it in a future post!
And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram!
Trojans 360 is USC’s official student-run blog. Content created by students, for students.
