USC’s First-Generation Plus Success Center celebrates National First-Gen Week
The university kicks off its celebration of first-generation students at USC with music, giveaways and community events.
USC’s 2021 entering undergrad class is the most diverse and talented yet
First-generation and students of color set records. The university’s college prep program for neighborhood children and teens leads the way with 57 first-year students. And Southern California public high schools make their strongest showing.
Building lasting bonds and memorable structures, one relationship at a time
Persistence and a love of math and science led first-generation college student Mayla Rodriguez to USC Viterbi’s civil engineering program.
USC welcomes a diverse class with resources, advice and connections
USC’s Student Equity and Inclusion Programs kick off fall with a message from the university’s many identity-specific resource centers and student communities: “You belong here.”
First-Generation Mentor Program triples in size during pandemic
Since 2008, first-gen students can be paired up with first-gen alumni to help the young Trojans get the most out of their USC experience.
See where many USC students will hang out — and find a place to belong — this fall
Remodeled cultural centers and lounges will give Trojans a place to meet up, talk and make friends. Get a first look at them in photos.
Studying psychedelic mushrooms propels first-gen student to divinity school
Graduating senior Kimberly Melgoza researches how mind-altering substances have been used in rituals across Latin America. She’ll bring her studies to Yale Divinity School this fall.
First-gen engineering grad ready to land Air Force career
Despite early setbacks, graduating USC student Giovanni Flores is gaining momentum as he aims for a post-graduation pilot slot.
Inspired by her Trojan mentor, first-gen student pursues physical therapy dream
Stephanie Contreras will be the first person in her family to attend college — and the leap doesn’t look so formidable, thanks to the mentorship of USC student Natalia Barajas.
Youngest son aims to be family’s first child with college degree, with some help from USC
Five years ago, Christopher Chavez and his family committed to the university’s Neighborhood Academic Initiative, a decision that transformed their future.
More than 8,800 offered fall admission to USC, from historically large pool of applicants
Diversity and academic achievement distinguish the newest Trojans, including a record number of first-generation college students.
From USC student to the U.S. Foreign Service
Betty Thai earned a fellowship that could lead to a job as a U.S. diplomat, an ideal fit for the first-generation college student who wants to help solve global challenges.
This world-wise veteran is ready to assist in the ER
After eight years in the Navy, Brian Phan is a well-traveled vet with a knack for photography who plans to put his USC education to use as a physician assistant.
First-gen Trojan aims to serve, whether by mentoring USC students or identifying unknown bodies
Angelina Crittenden is already making a difference through the First Generation Student Leadership Program she helped create. Her long-term plan: becoming a medical examiner.
Air Force vet takes his math talents to USC Viterbi
After spending four years keeping some of the world’s biggest planes in the air, first-generation transfer student Matt Mena is climbing toward a computer science degree.
🎧 Latinx, Latino/a or Chicano: Students share what they call themselves and why
USC students talk about which labels they prefer, the stories behind them and the significance of self-identifying the way they do.
In a year like no other, the USC Class of 2024 stands out
Public high schools and first-generation students create an outstanding fall class — USC’s largest incoming class ever — with South L.A. and the Eastside leading the way.
Bovard Scholars inspires low-income high school students to aim high
USC’s college preparatory program helps high achievers avoid undermatching and get into the top schools they deserve.
From pain and intimidation to purpose and belonging: One first-gen student’s journey
As a teenager, Jasmin Sanchez suffered a painful medical emergency that taught her to stand up for herself. Now she’s a USC Dornsife undergrad determined to advocate for others.
Doctoral graduate from USC Rossier learns to succeed her own way
Though she initially struggled as a first-gen student, Cynthia Diana Villarreal has found — and built — a community of her own.
PhD graduate to study health disparities, including impact of COVID-19 on Puerto Rican older adults
Catherine Pérez Garcia, a first-generation college student, will continue her research on health disparities in minority populations.
Determination and grit helped this 59-year-old finally earn her master’s
Inspired by her children, Ana González never gave up. Now, she’s got her degree and years of college memories, including a memorable meeting with President Carol L. Folt.
The soccer field provided this graduating senior with a place to be herself
Kathy Pulupa spent her undergraduate years at USC researching spaces where women of color — especially lesbians and undocumented women — can feel safe and supported.
First-gen graduating senior made a home at USC thanks to her Latinx peers
Maria Del Pilar Morales initially struggled to find her place at USC, but she soon discovered her calling in global health and her community among the university’s Latinx students and alumni.