Who should write my USC letters of recommendation?

Quite stressed about who to ask for recommendation letters for my USC application. Can anyone advise? Should it be a teacher from a subject that I plan on majoring in or an extracurricular coach who knows me well? Are there any particular aspects USC values in these recommendation letters?

Which individuals to ask for letters of recommendation usually depends on who knows you best and who can best attest to your qualities as a student and as a person. With that in mind, USC typically prefers recommendations from teachers in your junior and senior year who taught you in a major course (English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, or foreign language). Ideally, these teachers will give the admissions committee insight into your intellectual curiosity, character, and problem-solving skills in their respective academic areas.

For your specific situation, a teacher from the subject you plan on majoring in could be a good choice, as they can elucidate on your interest and aptitude in that particular field. However, if an extracurricular coach knows you well and can speak to important aspects such as your leadership skills, ability to work in a team, or dedication, they could also be a valuable recommender.

Keep in mind that USC allows students to submit one additional recommendation from an individual, such as a coach, employer, or mentor, who has observed you in a different capacity. So, in your case, you could still include a recommendation from both the teacher in your desired major and your extracurricular coach.

It's crucial, however, that your recommenders can provide information about your academic or personal qualities that isn't already apparent through the rest of your application. They should also speak to your ability to contribute to and succeed at a university like USC. In essence, they should testify to your academic competencies, personal attributes, and potential contributions to campus life.