I studied abroad at Maastricht University in the Netherlands, and it was a huge culture shock! From the Dutch food to the public transportation to the cold weather, there was a lot to adjust to. One of the biggest changes was the university itself. Maastricht University uses problem-based learning (PBL), where students work in small groups to solve complex, real-world problems. This was a major shift from USC, where I was used to large lecture halls and scantrons. As someone who is comfortable speaking up in class and working in groups, I was eager to try out this new approach. So, is problem-based learning the future of education? Here's my take.

“Don’t wanna be an American idiot!” Green Day's punk rock album is reimagined in the revival musical American Idiot: A Green Day Musical, presented by Deaf West Theatre at the Mark Taper Forum (October 2 to November 16, 2024). The production uniquely combines American Sign Language (ASL) with spoken English, making it accessible for both Deaf and hearing audiences. I saw American Idiot with friends and loved it! If you enjoy Green Day, musicals, or are a part of or want to learn about Deaf culture, check it out!

By: Kelsey Cheng ‘25

One of the most nail-biting GEs is GE-E: Physical Science. With one mention, you’re transported back into your high school biology class. Can I guarantee an easy A? No. But I can guarantee that you’ll learn theory and hard skills that are extremely valuable in the tech industry with LING 285: Language and Technology.

By: Kelsey Cheng ‘25

LING 115 is one of the most popular GE-C’s for a reason. It covers topics like what is classified as a language (spoiler: it’s more complicated than you think), multilingualism, psychology, and slang words just to name a few of the many topics. Regardless of your major, if you like to learn how humans speak (without having to learn *gasp* IPA), give LING 115 a try.

By: Kelsey Cheng ‘25

This class shreds what you think you know about the scientific world and then builds it back up again. It opened my eyes to questions I never even thought to wonder, and then it gave me the framework for answering them for myself.

By: Kelsey Cheng ‘25

USC dedicates Tribute Rock Garden and posthumously awards degrees to Japanese American students who were forced into internment camps.

By: Kelsey Cheng ‘25

Interested in social justice issues? Need a GE-C class? Try taking a gender and sexuality studies class next semester!

By: Kelsey Cheng ‘25

For its annual Culture Night, USC’s Nikkei Student Union showcased an event in celebration of Japanese culture! On March 11, Culture Night took the form of an Obon-style night market at the TCC Grand Ballroom, featuring game booths, performances, and dancing.

By: Kelsey Cheng ‘25

Want to land an internship? This year’s Spring Career Fair is on February 24th, now in person! Employers from all industries participate to recruit for full-time, part-time, and paid internship opportunities. Take a look at this checklist to make sure you get the most out of the day!

By: Kelsey Cheng ‘25

We’ve all been there––rereading your textbook for the third time at 1 AM, hoping that the test won’t be that hard. Like many students, I studied by highlighting notes and rewatching zoom lectures. While this may work for some, there are other ways to absorb learning material. In honor of midterms week, I tried out a new method of studying called active recall that’s supposed to increase memory retention and decrease hours spent at Leavey.

By: Kelsey Cheng ‘25

Did you know that USC students can watch regular-season, home games for almost every sport? Last week, Trojans faced off against UC San Diego at the Galen Center. As a long-time fan of USC volleyball, I jumped at the chance to see my school’s victory over the Tritons. Follow me to learn more about the volleyball game experience!

By: Kelsey Cheng ‘25

Interested in finding a job on campus? Trojans work a variety of jobs that range in time commitment, responsibilities, and environments. Keep reading for an in-depth look at just some of the different ways students can earn cash!