Happy Friday everyone! I know application season is in full swing and everyone is trying to choose where to apply and starting to narrow down your top choices. While a lot of focus is on the academic programs you will be involved in, I figured I’d give you some more insight on what sets USC apart from other top-notch universities, and that is location, location, location. Living in Los Angeles not only gives you so many professional opportunities, but also allows you to explore so many different cultures and environments you can’t find mashed together anywhere else. In this post I’ll give you an idea of what the perfect day in LA consists of, and although it might not be an every week experience, it should give you an idea of some of the many ways you can immerse yourself in one of the world’s largest and most vibrant cities.
Morning
Wake up early with some friends and drive up to Big Bear for a ski trip. Organizations like the USC Ski and Snowboard Team offer students discounted lift tickets, and many students take long weekend trips, or even half day trips to go hit the slopes. Leave by 6, hit the mountain by 8, and head back by 12 to keep your day going.

Bear Mountain
Afternoon
On your way back to campus stop in Downtown to get some food at Grand Central Market. Located in the midst of DTLA the Grand Central Market offers tons of awesome food options, including the famous breakfast sandwiches at Eggslut, and several vendors serving Latin American and Asian cuisine. Then take your food to go and head to the Griffith Observatory. Hike up to the Hollywood sign and take in great views of the Downtown skyline as well as the Pacific Ocean.
Eggslut Breakfast Sandwich
Evening
Drive on over to Santa Monica and bring your surfboard to catch some waves. Where else in the world can you see snow and go to the beach in the same day?! After watching the sunset on the beach, check out the shopping and dining scene in Santa Monica. Visit the famous Santa Monica pier for a ride on the ferris wheel, and then grab some fresh seafood for dinner.

Santa Monica Pier
And this is just one specific example of how to spend a day in LA. Need ideas for the next weekend? Check out the Science Center or Natural History Museum across the street, or venture over to the LACMA to take in some art. Or explore the LA food scene; you’ll be amazed how much you can find!
As for the usual Trojan Football update, the team is currently in Boulder set to face the Buffs of the University of Colorado tonight at 6. After a great Homecoming win against the Wildcats last week the Trojans are looking to ride the victory train over the next few weeks in hopes of taking back the Pac-12 South title. Fight On, and Beat the Buffs!
Play in the absence of fear. #FightOn #BeatTheBuffs pic.twitter.com/TWDxsHjg5u
— USC Trojans (@USC_Athletics) November 13, 2015
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