<p>Regarding bank accounts – the USC credit union lets you sign a parent onto the account and gives two debit cards. My parents used this to give me money to my account while in school. The USC credit union card was a part of my mom’s credit union network, so she was able to go to her branch and use the USC debit card to deposit cash. I would check this out and if your bank or credit union is a part of the same network, this is best way to go.</p>
<p>I second bringing only the clothes and things you cannot purchase in LA. There are several Targets 15-25 minutes away (with traffic) and a CVS across from campus.</p>
<p>I don’t think you’re allowed to have an amp in your dorm. When you live in non USC housing, it is fine, but the USC housing contract specifically restricts amplified instruments. I know you can bring a practice amp, but I wouldn’t bring anything over 25W. Too much of a potential problem with space/safety/etc.</p>
<p>I also don’t know the state of the new practice rooms since PIC was demolished, but I would assume the Popular Music kids have amps to use through Thornton. It would seem silly otherwise. </p>
<p>Dorms are small and are havens for theft. Musical equipment is ALWAYS targeted. The less you can bare to bring for this first year, the better. Once you move into a USC apartment or any non-USC owned house/apartment, then bring out all your gear but still be cautious about it. I could relay all the horror stories of stolen drum kits, guitars, mics, ProTools rigs, etc – but I am sure you get the point.</p>
<p>Make sure any instrument you bring is in a locked hardcase with an address/phone number tag on it, too. The more identifiable your gear is, the better. Label it, if you have stickers on your case, etc…</p>