<p>I got the impression that USC is really trying to turn its image around from being considered a party school known for its football into that of a serious academic research institution with well-rounded and successful students. And from all accounts USC really seems to be on the rise. Their merit scholarship program is helping to pull in more talent, certainly, and it helps that USC has some great honors programs. Their press release for the creation of the College Honors Society states that the society was founded to attract even more top quality students.</p>