<p>Since a few have mentioned CarGar (Cardinal Gardens), unless things in housing have changed, those apartments were not available to freshmen. It has always been predominantly sophomore-housing–owned and operated by USC Housing, but very close to campus and true apartment living. There will likely be changes in store as the University Village project begins construction. FWIW, Parkside is a newer, air conditioned option with very attractive rooms. At USC, there are no really bad dorms and location and layout may be the biggest differences. It does seem to be that New/North gets a lot of Greek-hopefuls and the term “social” can be a hint that partying (and all that entails) goes on in the rooms. Not all rooms, but the first few months of freshman year is a time when some kids jump into the party scene with a lot of gusto.</p>