extremely confused about USC majors/schools

jezreader
Sat, 26 Nov 2016 23:35:02 +0000

Hey,
I’m applying via regular decision to USC, but I have to submit by December 1st in order to compete for some of their scholarships. I’m really confused about how the various schools within USC work and how one could major across them or switch between them.
I’ve known I wanted to do a degree in media studies for a long time, with some sort of minor in poli sci or sociology, and I’m not really sure where that leaves me in terms of the USC application. USC has amazing programs in film studies and in communication, but I’m looking for something somewhat in-between, I guess. I’ve looked at all the programs that seem relevant to me and the one I liked the sound of the best (based on the courses) was the Cinema and Media Studies program, which is a part of SCA. I also know that, as of now, my eventual goal is to work on the ‘business side’ of TV, and my dream job would be working as a network executive. Thus, the BCA (Business of Cinematic Arts program) sounds perfect for me in the long-term, but I don’t think I want to go to business school, because I don’t really have an interest in going into business unless its related to entertainment and I’ve always pictured myself getting a broader undergraduate education (and maybe getting an MBA later). I like the liberal arts curriculum of Dornsife, but I feel like since I want to go into entertainment, it would be better to do one of the specialized programs USC is known for. To complicate matters even further, I love journalism and though I don’t see myself pursuing it as a career, the resources of the Annenberg school are tempting.
So…here’s where I am as of now: in order to apply for the major that I originally thought I wanted, I have to apply to SCA, which, as we all know, is harder to get into and also has an additional application. To apply for the BCA program, I’d have to apply to Marshall, and I just don’t think I want to go to business school as an undergrad. I could apply more generally to Dornsife, but then I might be stuck there. That’s where I get confused — is it possible/easy to switch between schools at USC? Say I apply to Dornsife, but then realize I want to go to SCA in my sophomore year. Is that a possibility? USC is one of the largest schools that I’m applying to and it has the most specialized programs, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it is making it difficult for me to know how to apply. Could anyone provide insight or offer advice? I didn’t realize my conundrum until recently, and my application, according to my college guidance counselor, should be done within the next five days. Help?
*Note: I’ve already completed most of the USC common app supplement and the writing sample for SCA. All I have left would be the “why USC” question and the SCA statement of intent, but I don’t feel like I can write either of those without knowing what I actually want from USC. Thanks in advance for any replies! I’m happy to provide any additional info that could help you help me.