USC Secondaries Advice?

Hi all! I'm currently working on my secondaries for USC, and I'm looking for a bit of guidance and insight. Can anyone share some tips or advice on what to include in my secondaries or what has worked well for you in the past? Thanks in advance!

Hi! I'm glad you're working on your USC secondaries and seeking advice. When writing secondary essays, it's essential to be introspective and genuine while showcasing your passion for the school and the specific programs that interest you. Here are some tips to help:

1. Tailor your response to USC: Make sure you research USC and its programs, as well as campus culture. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and knowledge of the university. You'll want to be specific about which resources and opportunities at USC excite you or align with your goals.

2. Highlight unique aspects of your background or experiences: Your secondaries should provide new information and perspectives that build upon what you've already shared in your primary application. If you have a unique personal or academic background, connecting it to what you'll bring to the USC community can make your application stand out.

3. Be concise and focused: While it's essential to provide examples and personal anecdotes, you also want your essay to be clear and to the point. Stick to one or two main themes or experiences and provide enough detail for the reader to understand their significance. Avoid listing your achievements or repeating information from your primary application.

4. Demonstrate self-awareness and growth: If applicable, use the secondaries to discuss any challenges you've faced or areas where you've demonstrated growth. Reflect on how these experiences have shaped you and your goals, and how you will apply the lessons learned to your education and career.

5. Edit and revise: Take the time to proofread and get feedback on your secondaries. This will ensure that your ideas are well-articulated, and your essays are free from grammatical errors.

While each applicant's experience will vary, these tips have proven helpful for many students in crafting effective secondaries. Best of luck on your USC application!