<p>Based on my experience with the USC admissions process, I would say they take an extremely holistic approach to defining their freshman class. I think they really try to look at the student as a whole, not just at their grades or test scores. Go back and look at the 2010 Admissions Decisions thread. There are plenty of people with good GPA’s and test scores who did not get admitted, and plenty of people with poorer GPA’s and test scores who did. There really isn’t a threshold where if you get a certain GPA and certain score on your SAT you are guaranteed admission.</p>
<p>Here is the 2009 freshman class profile just to give you a general idea of the academic makeup of the class.</p>
<p><a href=“http://www.usc.edu/admission/undergraduate/private/0910/FreshmanProfile2009.pdf[/url]”>http://www.usc.edu/admission/undergraduate/private/0910/FreshmanProfile2009.pdf</a></p>
<p>I really would advise though not to take that to heart. Here’s my two cents on USC admissions. I think USC looks for students who were not only very driven and accomplished in high school, but show promise for taking that drive and motivation with them to USC where they will continue to accomplish as a part of the Trojan family. That’s probably a bit more broad than you were hoping for, but I really think it’s true.</p>
<p>Specifics wise, I would advise a few things in the USC admissions process. One, I would really try to have a diverse range of experiences and accomplishments before you finish high school. USC really encourages interdisciplinary study, and I think having well rounded students is even more important to them than it is for other universities. So maybe in your senior year you could step outside your comfort zone a bit and pick up something you haven’t done before (i.e. a new sport, instrument, join the debate team, etc.)?</p>
<p>Also, USC loves to be loved. I’ve read that on here before and it is 100% true! I would definitely develop a nice relationship with your admissions counselor and any other USC faculty you come into contact with. Make it clear you really, really want to go there. USC is very proud of their school spirit and the Trojan network, and they want students who will continue on that tradition.</p>
<p>Hope this helps somewhat. Best of luck to you in the months to come.</p>