Believe it or not, Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Many USC students are preparing for a long drive or flight home for the break, but if you are planning to stay on campus or live in Southern California, here are some perfect day or overnight trips nearby to get out of the hustle and bustle of Downtown Los Angeles.

As the fall season is in full swing, temperatures are cooling down, and Thanksgiving is around the corner, which means there are many fun festivities to take part in. Fall is the season for pumpkin spice, football, and a reminder to be thankful for our loved ones. Bearing in mind everyone has different holiday experiences, I know it’s common for students to stay in LA during Thanksgiving, so here are a few potential events and places you can visit to incorporate some holiday goodness into your busy college life.

The beautiful fall season has begun! Although the LA temperatures are still nearing 90 degrees, the city offers many fun ways to celebrate the harvest season and Halloween. Here are some of the best LA and USC activities to get in the spirit!

By: Hannah Skinner’23

The time of Pumpkin Spice is upon us—this fall season, I took it upon myself to try the Starbucks’ limited edition fall-inspired menu. [This] is my ranking of the Starbucks fall menu items from the ones you can skip to the ones absolutely can’t miss!

By: Kristen Adams ‘25 and Kelsey Cheng ‘25

Fall is finally here! In southern California, there’s one thing that truly signals the start of the season. It’s not the weather or changing leaves––it’s the Trader Joe’s! Starting in September and October, Trader Joe’s ( aka TJ’s) rolls out an array of pumpkin-spiced, apple-flavored snacks and pastries. Below is Kristen and Kelsey’s review of five fall products that you can purchase from the Village’s Trader Joe’s.

By: Sophia Pei ‘22

It’s the height of midterm season and everyone around you is getting sick. The combination of lack of sleep, stress, and lack of self-care can easily lead to you feeling unwell when you most need to be at your best. It’s easy to forget to do the things that keep us well when things get hectic, leading to a positive feedback loop of stress. Here are some reminders and tips for you to be and stay well!

By: Lilly Kate Diaz ‘20

Are you an art lover and enjoy listening to guest speakers who talk about their art? Then check out the many Roski Talks that are available on and at the Graduate Fine Arts Building (IFT)!