I am a native Californian who grew up in Torrance. Although I had every intention of going to college outside California, I ended up choosing USC and loved every minute of my student experience. I stayed here after graduation and have spent most of my professional career serving in various roles across the university.

Why USC?
USC offers students an academic and social environment unparalleled in American higher education. It is large enough to have something for just about everyone, but is also a place where each individual is respected and receives personal attention. USC’s unmatched diversity, along with its values-driven philosophy and academic excellence, results in educational offerings that are truly relevant to the 21st century.

Admission Advice:
The college search and selection process are all about finding the right fit. Don’t become too narrowly focused on one institution. Broaden your horizons and keep your options open; there are more than 2,000 colleges and universities in the U.S., and there is certainly more than one that will be the perfect fit for you.


Movie: Star Wars
Food: Sausage pizza
Quote: “We must not confuse dissent with disloyalty.” – Edward R. Murrow
Role Model: I have many. In the world of admission, it is Joseph Patrick Allen.
Musical Performer: the Clash (the only band that matters)
Book: any non-fiction book about World War II

My roots are in south-central Pennsylvania, but my parents moved to Southern California shortly after I was born. I grew up mostly around Long Beach (a Millikan alum -- go Rams!), and attended USC. I studied filmmaking with a dream to change the world by telling stories that must be told, by bringing forward those voices that must be heard. A job I thought would be temporary 18 years ago became my dream career, as we’re working to change the world every day. What a wonderful, fortunate coincidence.

Why USC?
It felt right when I visited campus. I still find it odd that my high school geography instructor urged me to go to Berkeley instead. For me that made no sense.

Admission Advice:
I believe the most successful applicants care not about advice of the admission counselors, but instead strive to expand their minds as best they can, while also seeking enriching life experiences. Earn the best grades in the toughest classes you can handle.


Movie: I move between Apocalypse Now and African Queen. And here’s a weird coincidence -- both are anti-war epics, filmed under extremely difficult conditions, and both are set on a twisting, jungle river.
Food: Anything prepared by my wife, or by David Myers.
Quote: "I know what you’re thinkin’: 'Did he fire six shots or only five?' Well, to tell you the truth, in all this excitement, I kind of lost track myself. But being this is a .44 magnum, the most powerful handgun in the world, and would blow your head ... clean off ... you’ve got to ask yourself one question, 'Do I feel lucky.' Well do ya, punk?"
Role Model: My old man.
Musical Performer: I like anything with genuine, sincere emotional expression: mostly rock, but also opera, hip-hop, punk, new-wave, shouting, laughing, crying. The best is Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.
Book: Love Gatsby, Mockingbird. Greg Rucka’s Kodiak series is fun. I’ve been sampling Chuck Klosterman lately. Oh, and David Sedaris just kills me.

I grew up on both coasts of the United States as well as abroad. During my time as a USC undergraduate, I was a tour guide, sorority member, and Thematic Option student and was involved in many research projects. I am proud to serve my alma mater as an Assistant Director of Admission.

Why USC?
There are several tangible reasons: because of its variety of academic programs, because of its vibrant campus life, because of its location in Los Angeles. But any Trojan will tell you that the true answer to this question is not a particular quality but an intangible feeling that you are part of a great community.

Admission Advice:
When it comes to your resumé, don’t just think about the content. How you organize the content is just as important.

Movie: Le Fabuleaux Destin d’Amélie Poulin by Jean-Pierre Jeanet
Food: Brothy soup
Quote: “Life is the dancer and you are the dance.” – Eckhart Tolle, A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose
Role Model: My Brother
Musical Performer: Justin Timberlake
Book: Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain

I’m a small-town boy who always dreamed of bright lights and busy city streets. My academic and acting success in high school helped garner a spot in USC’s entering class. As a student I worked very closely with New Student Orientation, and I am extremely happy to help interested students gain admission to my alma mater. P.S. my favorite color is green.

Why USC?
USC has the characteristics of a large university while still maintaining a close-knit family relationship with all its members. The university will aid any young adult in his or her academic, personal, social, intellectual, and emotional development.

Admission Advice:
Congratulations! You are about to embark on a great adventure that will begin the next big chapter in your life. Enjoy the search, and let us know how we can help.

Movie: The Dark Knight, Scent of a Woman
Food: Fried Shrimp, Chicken Parmigiana, Hot Fudge Cake Sundae. Mmmm...
Quote: "Whether you think that you can, or that you can’t, you are usually right." -- Henry Ford, American Industrialist
Role Model: Johnny Depp
Musical Performer: Nine Inch Nails
Book: The Aeneid by Virgil

Originally from Nicaragua, raised in Los Angeles, I am passionate about the field of higher education. I enjoy working with students and am very excited to be making an impact on their lives through my work in the Office of Admission. I enjoy running, watching movies, going to concerts, and spending time with family and loved ones.

Why USC?
You will find abundant resources, opportunities and rich cultural experiences; live in the great city of Los Angeles and meet wonderful people.

Admission Advice:
You will go to college. Breathe, relax, just be yourself and you will surely shine.

Movie: Good Will Hunting
Food: Nicaraguan
Quote: "Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today." --Malcolm X
Role Model: My mother
Musical Performer: Interpol…and The Beatles, of course.
Book: Great Expectations

I am entering my second year as an Assistant Director with the Office of Admission at USC. Originally from the suburbs of Sacramento, I became interested in admissions after working as an intern in the office while an undergraduate at USC.

Why USC?
The combination of a first-rate academic and intellectual environment, unique and varied social and extracurricular opportunities, and the sense of community embodied by the Trojan Family make USC an unparalleled institution for an undergraduate education.

Admission Advice:
Follow directions; it tells us a lot about you.

Movie: The Lives of Others
Food: Anything Mexican
Quote: “Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak. Courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.” --Winston Churchill
Role Model: My Parents
Musical Performer: Depends on my mood
Book: Clash of Civilizations by Samuel Huntington

I’m a proud Navy Baby, who grew up overseas in Japan. I came to Los Angeles to pursue my news junkie fix. I served my alma mater as a backwards, high-heeled walking tour guide, admissions intern, community volunteer with USC Helenes and the Joint Educational Project and as a journalist for ATVN. In my spare time I enjoy Barnes and Nobles bookstores—yes, I am a member, concerts—music is better live, beach naps, runs in the park and world domination in Rockband and old school Super Nintendo.

Why USC?
The people. You are guaranteed to meet at least one person who will greatly impact your life, academically, professionally or personally. Your fellow Trojans and the family you build here will make your experience at USC not just four years, but lifelong and life changing.

Admission Advice:
Be authentic. This is your one shot to show us who you are, not your mom, dad or siblings. Take advantage of this; this is not a copy and paste opportunity. Human nature wants us to like boxes, structures and formulaic responses. Your challenge is show us what is beyond the box.

Movie: Mrs. Doubtfire and Amélie
Food: Seafood and chocolate, not concurrently
Quote: “Oh, the comfort, the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person; having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but to pour them all out, just as they are, chaff and grain together, knowing that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and then, with a breath of kindness, blow the rest away.”—George Eliot
Musical Performer: I drive to work with Sara Bareilles and Augustana; romanticize to Frédéric Chopin and Samuel Barber; run to the Black Eyed Peas; enjoy dinner with Miles Davis and fall asleep to Keane. And that’s just a weekday.

I am an Orange Country girl and the 10th USC graduate in my family. While a student I worked as a campus tour guide and discovered my passion higher education. Immediately following graduation I worked for a two years at a Big Four accounting firm; however, I missed working in admissions and decided to redirect my career goals. I enjoy going to the theatre, cycling, shopping, and taking advantage of So Cal with friends and family.

Why USC?
USC hands students the opportunity to diversify their education. Trojans do not feel pressured to decide between pursuing their career goals and cultivating their interests and passions. In fact, USC and its academic curriculum encourage their students to do both. Be a renaissance scholar!

Admission Advice:
Take ownership and responsibility of your college search, applications and decision. Seek advice from family, friends and teachers; but always remember the decision is ultimately yours.

Movie: When Harry Met Sally, My Best Friend's Wedding, Moulin Rouge...Don't make me choose!
Food: Corn. (I'm serious.)
Dream Job: Celebrity Stylist
Book: I'd be lost without my Blackberry.

I grew up in Arizona and have lived in Southern California for the last 14 years. When I’m not reading applications, you can find me at the yoga studio, in the kitchen baking, or trying a new restaurant.

Why USC?
USC has so many options for students: academic, social, and extracurricular. It’s easy to see why students are so excited about spending their college careers here.

Admission Advice:
Remember, there’s a person on the other end of your application; we’re just trying to get to know you.

Movie: Say Anything
Food: Chocolate chip cookies
Quote: "Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." --Ferris Bueller
Musical Performer: Death Cab for Cutie
Book: The Devil in the White City

I am from Hampton, VA and began my career in admissions at the College of William & Mary. I moved west in 1999 and spent six years in the Office of Admission at Pitzer College in Claremont, CA before joining the staff at USC in 2005.

Why USC?
There is a sense of energy, excitement, and momentum that permeates this community. Few universities combine the breadth of undergraduate academic programs found at USC with a curriculum that allows for and encourages intellectual discovery across disciplinary lines. Our students are active learners who engage their faculty in the classroom and take advantage of the extraordinary opportunities available in Los Angeles.

Admission Advice:
Relax, visit as many campuses as you can, and ask questions. Applying to college can be an anxious process, so if you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us. While we can’t predict a final decision we can strive to demystify this process as much as possible.

Movie: The Princess Bride
Food: Filet Mignon (medium) with a baked potato…then ice cream
Role Model: My parents
Musical Performer: Dave Matthews Band
Book: His Excellency (biography of George Washington)

I have been working in the college admission field, both at universities and at the high school level, for over eight years. My work has taken me across the country and overseas, but I chose to return to my native L.A., where I have been working at USC for the past two years.

Why USC?
The university and its student body are an amazing combination of intellectual curiosity, spirit, athleticism, artistic talent, innovation, and diversity.

Admission Advice:
Be yourself.

Movie: Moulin Rouge
Food: Anything sweet
Quote: “Be silly. Be honest. Be kind.” --Ralph Waldo Emerson
Role Model: My parents
Musical Performer: Depends on place and time
Book: The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

I am a native and a current resident of Pasadena. I love Pasadena for the trees and beautiful, old houses and Los Angeles for the food and the beaches. I am happiest when I am outside, around dogs, and eating.

Why USC?
USC is a great place to get a real-world relevant education. With the diverse, urban location, the emphasis on internships, service and study abroad, and the Trojan family networking opportunities, USC reminds students that what they do outside the classroom is just as important as what they do inside.

Admission Advice:
A lot of prospective students and parents are very serious. This is understandable because college is important, but it’s also really, really fun. Try to have fun finding a college.

Movie: Vertigo
Food: Burritos, pizza, cheeseburgers. The worse for you, the better.
Role Model: My dogs
Dream Job : Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
Book: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

I am a native to Los Angeles and love spending time exploring what this great city has to offer. As a student at Pitzer College I worked as an Admissions Fellow in the Office of Admissions. This experience is what initially sparked my interest in working in higher education.

Why USC?
USC, in my opinion, is a great mix of the vast opportunities that a large research institution provides as well as the close knit environment and community that a smaller liberal arts college provides.

Admission Advice:
What I believe is the most important in the college search process is being able to find a college or university that best fits your personality and where you as a student and young adult will be able to thrive and learn. Whether this is at USC or another institution I think it is important to remember to choose a place that you will be able to confidently make friends, grow as a learner and call that institution your 2nd home.

Musical Performer: Radiohead, old Weezer
Food: Any food and all food! Mexican, Thai, Italian, Indian! I love it all. Trying new restaurants in the Los Angeles area is one of my favorite hobbies.
Dream Job : Fashion stylist or party planner
Greatest Invention of All Time: The Internet

I grew up in the Midwest. I was in the U.S. Navy, and have worked at USC for 24 years.

Why USC?
Great education and a great environment.

Admission Advice:
Be patient and study hard.

Movie: The Godfather I & II
Food: Steak
Role Model: My father
Musical Performer: Early Bob Dylan
Book: Almost any history book.

I grew up in Chalmette, Louisiana, a little suburb 10 minutes outside of New Orleans. I moved to Los Angeles with my wife, Tiffany, in 2007 after working as a school counselor for two years. I have been a lifelong fan of the New Orleans Saints, which has caused a great deal of stress over the years. I enjoy running, playing the guitar, and reading books on American revolutionary and Civil War history.

Why USC?
USC is a community, and after moving from New Orleans, I hoped to find a place that felt like home. USC has become that place for me. I was initially attracted to the educational mission of the university and its commitment to providing students with a “global” educational experience. The mission does not exist solely in principle, but rather, it is carried out each day through our students and professors.

Admission Advice:
Use the admission process as a chance to learn about yourself. High school goes by so quickly that it is sometimes difficult to find the time to step back and think about who you are at this stage of your life. With all the stress associated with the process, you deserve to gain something meaningful in the end. And while in college, you are likely to discover things about yourself that you never once thought possible. The admission process can be a chance to think about the possibilities.

Movie: A tie between Dumb and Dumber and Return of the Jedi.
Food: Boiled Crawfish
Quote: "Once I had brains, and a heart also--so having tried them both, I should much rather have a heart." --The Tinman, from The Wizard of Oz
Role Model: Drew Brees, Quarterback of the New Orleans Saints
Musical Performer: Weezer
Book: Once a Runner, by John L. Parker

I grew up in Southern California. I attended college in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. I have had the pleasure of living in the wonderful state of New Jersey, and now I am happy to be back home.

Why USC?
Culture, Climate, Diversity

Admission Advice:
Focus on your personal statement. Your personal statement gives me better insight into your passions, potential, and ability to persevere.

Movie: The Dark Knight
Food: Sushi
Quote: "Fight with a grin." --Winston Churchill
Role Model: Barack Obama
Musical Performer: Tupac Shakur
Book: From Superman to Man, J.A. Rogers

I graduated from Alamo Heights High School in San Antonio, Texas, but have lived in Los Angeles for a little over five years. During my time as a USC student, I was a proud member of the USC Mariachi Band-today, I keep it low key by only playing private parties and small family gatherings.

Why USC?
There are few institutions of USC's caliber that allow you to pursue multiple academic interests. USC not only allows it, but encourages students to immerse themselves in everything they find interesting. I believe SC graduates are particularly well prepared for today's globalized, multidisciplinary world.

Admission Advice:
Ask people to look over your essays to make sure your voice comes through...and once you're satisfied with it, ask someone who doesn't know you so well to read it and give you feedback. After all, the admissions officers who read your application probably don't know you the way your parents, friends, or favorite teachers do.

Movie: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
Food: Oddly, it's Stouffer's Spinach Soufflé. At Thanksgiving, my mom puts caramelized onions and sautéed mushrooms at the base of a pie crust and then makes a Spinach Pie with the stuff... it's perfect.
Quote: "What's the point of wearing your favorite rocketship underpants if nobody ever asks to see 'em?" -Calvin (& Hobbes)
Role Model: David Robinson, San Antonio Spurs Hall-of-Fame Center and all-around Dude.

I am originally from Southern California, and after working for another university in the L.A. area, I am so glad to be back home with the Trojan family. I have a variety of interests ranging from singing with the gospel choir to running and completing the L.A. marathon with the USC team! Oh, and my favorite color is pink.

Why USC?
USC is such a dynamic place: a diverse group of people with even more diverse interests. It is exciting to be a part of a community of people committed to attaining knowledge!

Admission Advice:
Check and recheck everything to make sure that everything is exactly what you want it to say!

Movie: Le Fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain
Food: Annie’s Early California Enchilada from El Cholo. Try it.
Quote: "The good we secure for ourselves is precarious and uncertain until it is secured for all of us and incorporated into our common life." --Jane Addams
Role Model: Eleanor Roosevelt or Al Gore. It’s a toss-up.
Musical Performer: Leona Lewis, and I sing along.
Book: A Yellow Raft on Blue Water by Michael Dorris

I’ve been in international admission over 25 years, 18 of which have been here at USC. And over these years, it has been my pleasure working with students from all over the world as USC continues to enroll the largest number of foreign students at any U.S. university.

Why USC?
It is the center of the universe.

Admission Advice:
Read directions carefully.

Movie: A Christmas Story
Food: Thai
Quote: “To Dream the Impossible Dream”
Musical Performer: Jimmy Buffett
Book: Blue Highways

After spending my entire life on the East Coast, I, like many of you, decided to look into the opportunities that a new home might provide for me. After spending time in politics, I have found a passion for higher education and am proud to recruit for USC and promote the idea of higher education across the country.

Why USC?
Limitless opportunity, prime location, state-of-the-art facilities, and a traditional collegiate spirit. Why not USC?

Admission Advice:
Enjoy the ride and appreciate the opportunity. Everything will work itself out.

Movie: A Time to Kill
Food: Greek & Mexican
Quote: "Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away." --Unknown
Role Model: Jackie Robinson

I was born and raised in South Gate, California (which is just a few miles from USC). I am pretty athletic, I love to bowl, play golf, and I go to lots of concerts (ie, Coachella, Bjork, and Animal Collective). I am a published photographer and I have been skateboarding for the last 10 years.

Why USC?
It’s a warm environment-- literally and figuratively.

Admission Advice:
Find a school that best fits you, demonstrate that fit in your application, and you’ll do great.

Movie: American Beauty, The Departed, Lost in Translation
Food: Cuban food and milk-almond chocolate from See's
Fictional Character: Lester Burnham (American Beauty)
Greatest Invention: iPhone
Music: Radiohead
Role Model: Grandparents

I am a former NCAA Division I student athlete from Las Vegas, Nevada. Passionate about education, I relocated to Los Angeles, California to continue in college admissions and obtain a master’s in communication.

Why USC?
Why not put yourself in a climate that constantly challenges you academically, professionally and socially? USC is redefining the art of interdisciplinary education and I’m privileged to be a part of it!

Admission Advice:
Know deadlines, plan ahead and take time preparing your application. Show me what I can’t see on your transcripts.

Movie: Little Miss Sunshine, Polly, Wedding Date
Food: Everything! Chicken, sushi, desserts!
Quote: “You shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back.” --Maya Angelou
Role Model: My role model is my mother Dr. Beverly Mathis. She is the epitome of a phenomenal woman: a cancer survivor, a life long educator and a lover of life.
Musical Performer: Luther Vandross, Temptations
Book: 212: The Extra Degree by S.L. Parker, The Wedding by Nicholas Sparks, Power of a Praying Woman by Stormie Omaritian

I grew up in the Bay Area, went away to St. Louis for college, but have always been a California girl at heart.

Why USC?
The myriad of cultural, academic, and professional opportunities are endless as a USC student in Los Angeles. Both on- and off-campus, the experiences that you have as a USC student, alumnus, and member of the Trojan family will carry you far beyond your four years here.

Admission Advice:
Give your essay to at least one other person to read, whether it be a friend, family member, or teacher. Ask them to proofread for errors, but also ask them one important question: Does the essay sound like my voice? If the essay does not sound like you, it’s a good idea to take a second look at it to see why that might be. Our hope is that the essay will be a glimpse into your personality and who you are beyond grades and test scores.

Movie: Sleepless in Seattle
Food: anything carbohydrate-based (pasta, chocolate, cookies, etc)
Quote: “You can tell a lot about a fellow’s character by his way of eating jelly beans.” --Ronald Reagan

I was born and raised in Los Angeles and graduated from Marlborough School. For the past 10 years I have worked in the Office of Admission in the areas of outreach and multicultural recruitment.

Why USC?
USC has everything anyone could want in an undergraduate experience. The opportunity to learn, to work side-by-side with experts in many areas of research, and to make your mark in the world by participating in campus experiences which impact communities locally, nationally and globally. And to be a member of the best group of alumni ever.

Admission Advice:
Apply to a major in the field of study that you are passionate about. Your passion will ring clear in your personal statement and the academic history of your high school course selection.

Movie: The Happening
Food: Ice Cream
Quote: “There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.” --Colin Powell
Role Model: Anyone who sets their mind to something and succeeds.
Musical Performer: Chris Botti
Book: A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

I am a native of Los Angeles. I grew up in Glendale and attended Loyola High School. I worked 10 years as an English teacher before spending the last seven working in college admission. I love to cook and eat and therefore, run. And I spend lots of my time with my big family.

Why USC?
USC is in the heart of the greatest city in the world.

Admission Advice:
Be your own advocate. Your parents, counselors, and teachers should help, but you should take charge. We are most impressed by students who do for themselves.

Food: Burritos are delicious.
Quote: ”The road is life.” --Jack Kerouac
Role Model: My grandmothers.
Musical Performer: The greatest band in the world, U2.
Book: A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving

I am originally from the San Francisco Bay Area and attended college not far from home. After a short stint in corporate America, I returned to my alma mater to begin my career in admissions. After 18 years and three distinctly different institutions, I am enjoying my experience at USC.

Why USC?
USC offers students so many opportunities inside and outside of the classroom. It is amazing to see what students accomplish while they are here. It is even more amazing to see what they do with their USC experience once they leave this campus as ambassadors of the Trojan Family.

Admission Advice:
Take advantage of all the information provided to you through the application process. Admission officers are here to be a resource for you during this time. And relax, there is more than one perfect school. Open your mind to find the places where you will thrive.

Movie: Sound of Music
Food: Mexican food
Quote: Fight on!
Role Model: Mother and father
Musical Performer: Alicia Keys

I am originally from Phoenix, lived in Sydney and love life in Los Angeles. After working in higher education at another institution, I am thrilled to join the Trojan Family as a professional and graduate student in Postsecondary Administration and Student Affairs. I enjoy helping students navigate through their university-selection process. When I'm not promoting higher education, I love to travel, learn, watch "So You Think You Can Dance" and discover new restaurants.

Why USC?
USC combines a rewarding academic environment with the social and extracurricular benefits of a large university. Having Los Angeles, Hollywood and beaches in your backyard doesn't hurt either!

Admission Advice:
Ask questions, do your research and take initiative. This is your future; let me know how I can help.

Movie: Memento
Food: Chinese
Book: Astonishing X-Men #1
Role Model: My Mom and Dad.
Musical Performer: Madonna

I grew up in the San Fernando Valley and recently graduated from USC where I combined my love of literature with a degree from the Annenberg School for Communication. When I’m not working with students, I enjoy spending time with my big, loud family, trying out new recipes, and cheering on the Trojans in football.

Why USC?
USC is the place to be if you want a complete collegiate experience: world class faculty, access to research, a wide selection of majors and minors, vibrant student life and an amazing football team – all in the middle of one of the greatest cities in the world.

Admission Advice:
Tell your story. Your application is your opportunity to tell us why you belong at USC. Make the most of it.

Movie: Singin' in the Rain
Food: Sushi
Book: Anything by C.S. Lewis
Fictional Character: It's a tie between Elizabeth Bennet and Hermione Granger.
Greatest Invention of All Time: The Hot Glue Gun.

I grew up in a suburb of Chicago, headed south for college, and finally ended up out west after graduate school. I love exploring all that LA has to offer- from the beach to music venues to sporting events, there's never a dull moment.

Why USC?
USC has so much to offer students- great faculty, immense opportunities, and an overall amazing undergraduate experience. The Trojan Family is unlike any other network and you can truly see what a wonderful community USC has as soon as you set foot on campus.

Admission Advice:
Make sure your voice comes through on the application, especially in the personal statement section- admission counselors want to get to know who you are as a person and what makes you a unique student.

Movie: Moulin Rouge
Food: Cookies, Chicken Parm, Chocolate, Frozen Yogurt
Musical Performer: Ben Folds
What I Do for Fun: Ride my bike to the beach, play tennis, attend concerts, travel, cheer for the Cubs.

I grew up in Southern California. Met my husband at USC, where I have worked in admission, financial aid and the Viterbi School of Engineering. I have two young children, and currently reside in the Midwest.

Why USC?
All the benefits of a great private education in a major urban setting with a warm climate. What’s not to like?

Admission Advice:
There is not one perfect school for each student. Keep your options open, and be yourself!

Movie: The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Food: Dark chocolate.
Quote: “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” --Mahatma Gandhi
Role Model: Yoda
Musical Performer: Indigo Girls
Book: Too many to pick one favorite, but I’ll recommend Tortilla Curtain by our own T. C. Boyle as one suggestion.

Though I’m originally from Arkansas, I spent most of my life in Las Vegas before moving to Los Angeles. Before entering the field of admissions, I was a high school counselor in the US and Thailand. I love exploring L.A., reading, crossword puzzles, and going to the movies.

Why USC?
USC makes it easy to double major or take minors, so it will be a great  fit for you if you’re a student who has a lot of different interests, and if you’re not sure you’ll be satisfied studying just one field in college.

Admission Advice:
You should challenge yourself with your high school coursework, but don’t force yourself to stock up on AP’s like you’re buying them at Costco. Choose courses that matter to you, and be sure to find a balance between academics, activities, and a social life. If you have a passion for something, we want to know about it, and your essay is a great place to voice that passion.

Movie: Hannah and Her Sisters
Food: Sushi, burgers, pupusas
Quote: "Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. Inside of a dog, it's too dark to read.” – Groucho Marx
Musical Performer: Broken Social Scene
Book: The Blind Assassin by Margaret Atwood

I was born and raised in Southern California. I have always been passionate about working in education and my love for USC has brought me back to work in the Office of Admission. I enjoy exploring new malls in big cities, doing craft projects and traveling.

Why USC?
USC has everything a student could want in an undergraduate education. Campus is always exciting, there are over a hundred academic programs to choose from taught by the best faculty members, and the access to Los Angeles serves as a great resource for students.

Admission Advice:
Relax and enjoy this exciting time in your life. Let us know what we can do to help!

Movie: Notting Hill
Food: Italian
Musical Performer: Journey, The Fray, Rascal Flatts
Fictional Character: Tinkerbell

I am a Southern California native who upon graduation entered the corporate world of sales and management. I discovered a passion for higher education while in college and that is what lead me to USC. I am a Los Angeles resident and a fan of everything this great city has to offer.

Why USC?
There are very few universities that are as diverse as USC. The opportunities available to students not only mirror the diversity that is USC but it has made it a world leader in research, undergraduate education, and the overall college experience.

Admission Advice:
Take advantage of your resources and don’t hesitate in asking for help. We are here to serve and represent you. None of your questions should go unanswered.

Movie: Transformers, The Color Purple, Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory (The Original)
Food: Asian Cuisine
Quote: “Education is a social process. Education is growth. Education is not a preparation for life; education is life itself.” -unknown
Book: To Kill a Mockingbird, A Tale of Two Cities, Beloved