5 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started College
By ISABELLA L.
Upon your arrival at USC, there may be a series of “I wish I knew this” moments. As a third year student studying both Public Relations and Advertising as well as Law, History, and Culture, there are five things I wish I knew before I started college.
1. Build Your Network
USC is widely known for its Trojan network. After three years at USC, I can confirm that the Trojan network is stronger than anticipated, and you must take full advantage of it. As a first-generation student, I was never exposed to networking until I came to USC. In the beginning, I believed networking was only done with industry professionals, but here it is strongly practiced with peers and professors as well. My network of peers and professors has given me the opportunity to gain new experiences and even secure internships. It is important to be open, vocal, and collaborative because you never know who you might connect with.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Things
It may feel daunting at first, but it is so rewarding afterward. That is the feeling of doing uncomfortable things that make you better, both personally and professionally. Coming to college should push you to do things that make you feel uncomfortable, because that is what allows you to grow. Whether it’s going for a coffee chat with a guest speaker from your class, signing up for a club you’re interested in, or spending time with new people, these experiences matter. Annenberg is a place where you can grow both professionally and personally by trying and experiencing new things. Always be curious, ask questions, and try new things.
3. Less is More
Growing up watching YouTubers or TikToks about what to bring to college can set unrealistic expectations about what you actually need. As the first person in my family to attend college, I fell victim to the never-ending hauls. The truth is, less is more when you’re packing for college, especially at USC. If you need anything, you don’t even have to leave campus, since you can get it from the USC Village’s Target, Trader Joe’s, or Amazon pickup.
4. Create Your Own Balance
Oftentimes, when incoming college students start school, they naturally think about balance. Balancing personal and professional life especially in college is hard but doable. I mean this candidly when I say you must create your own balance. Do not compare yourself to others or to your past self. What worked for you in high school might not work for you now. Therefore, you must create your own balance. Whether that be devoting time towards mental health stimulation like going on a walk or hanging out with friends. Balance is not clockwork, some days will be different from others, and that is okay. Your balance will be created and evaluated by you, for you.
5. Trust Yourself
Last but not least, what I wish I knew before college was to truly trust myself. You made it into USC and Annenberg for a reason. Surrounded by inspiring peers and top industry professionals, it’s easy to question where you fit in, but it’s important to understand that you belong here. Your voice matters, and you contribute more than you think. Although you may experience imposter syndrome, it does not define your abilities or your potential. Trust yourself enough to speak up in rooms, take up space, and go after opportunities you never thought were possible. You have endless potential and opportunities with Annenberg by your side, so trust yourself because you’ve got this.
As you begin your journey at USC, remember that there is no right way to do college. Your journey will look different from that of your peers, friends, and family, and that is what makes it meaningful. Build genuine connections, embrace new opportunities, find what works for you, and trust yourself. Ultimately, your college experience will be filled with memories, lessons, and growth. There will be moments when your path is shaped by uncertainty, discovery, and complete confidence. This is all part of the experience, and the lessons you learn will shape not only your professional path but also who you become as a person. You are here for a reason, and everything you need to succeed in college is already within you.
