“During my time at USC I want to explore LA on the weekends,” said every incoming student ever. To make those Class of 20-something Instagram post bios, ZeeMee chats, and first day of class introductions hold some truth, you need to start exploring! Whether you’re taking a solo self care day or bonding with new friends, this “No Car, No Money, No Problem” series will help you get the most of your college experience (and USC’s U-Pass program). This pass makes all public transportation in the LA area FREE. I repeat, FREE. Transport on USC’s dime is surely something U can’t pass up.

It’s time to take sustainability up a notch! In response to the growing climate crisis, USC’s Office of Sustainability has launched Assignment: Earth, a framework for creating a healthy, just, and thriving campus and world, with goals of carbon neutrality by 2025 and zero waste by 2028. The university is striving towards these goals with new initiatives to eliminate single-use plastics, encourage recycling, and conserve water accompanied by the Green Week campaign every fall.

By: Ani Antonyan ‘24

Tired of studying at Leavey Library? Need a change of scenery and to get off campus? Exploring LA and trying nearby coffee shops is a great way to motivate yourself to get started on that project you’ve been dreading or devote yourself to a study session. So grab your laptop, your TAP card, and computer charger, and get ready to power through a few hours of studying and crunching assignments at these great nearby coffee shops!

By: Nancy Aguilar Sanchez ‘22

Once you finally have the time between classes, exams, and homework to go explore LA, it’s often hard to find activities that are free or affordable. Here’s some inspiration for the next time you want to go out without blowing your budget!

By: Sophia Pei ‘22

USC is fortunate enough to have 3 Metro stops near USC’s main campus! For $1.75 you’re able to go to DTLA or Santa Monica and everywhere in between. Here are some tips from an LA local about the Metro Expo line.