The University of Southern California

“Do a great job conveying how you're special orOct 01 2009Fine Arts - Painting/Sculpture/Photography/etc
Do a great job conveying how you're special or interesting in your college essay. They read thousands of those a year.

Focus on your portfolio if entering a major that uses one.

Do well on your SAT's, but don't stress over them.

Strong academics is important, but they care about hard workers more.

People said don't ask for financial aid - that's just stupid. If you need assistance - ask for it! I need probably more than anyone and it was not an issue for them at all - even in a recession year. If they want you, they will make it happen.
SAT: 1950 Male

“I did not have much trouble getting into USCJun 01 2009Chemical Engineering
I did not have much trouble getting into USC. The grades and the SAT scores did the work for me (I didn't even have to do an interview). However, if you're really going to do engineering, make sure you apply to the engineering school. You have a better shot at scholarships that way. Also, if you do get in, and you're wondering what to do during the summer, one word: internships.
ACT: 32 SAT: 1340 Male

“I had a 3May 02 2009History/Histories (art history/etc.)
I had a 3.4 GPA in high school - got in the most competitive year.
ACT: 26 SAT: 1950 Male

“What I did was so bizarre I don't thinkMar 29 2009Neuroscience/Cognitive Science
What I did was so bizarre I don't think it would be of help to anyone.
Male