8 Things That Should Be On Each USC Freshman Bucket List

Take a look at this USC freshman bucket list! You will definitely want to get to every item on this list when back on campus.

It’s finally your first year of college, and it will probably be one of the most awkward but memorable times of your life. The thrill of starting fresh and the fear of leaving behind your high school friends and family linger over you. It’s the time to be youthful, to make mistakes, and to grow — so make this year worth it by checking off these 8 things from the ultimate bucket list that every USC freshman should complete.

1. Make a USC Game Day waffle

Our dining hall food may not be the greatest out of all college cafeterias, but what’s a better way to start off your USC Game Day morning (before you head out to the tailgates) than to make yourself a USC waffle? Out of the three dining halls located on campus, EVK and Parkside offer waffle irons during brunch on weekends. If you want to spice things up, add chocolate chips or Oreo bits from the ice-cream bar into your waffle batter. You can always add fruit and whipped cream afterwards. If you want to turn it into a dessert, try adding ice-cream and chocolate syrup. These Game Day waffles are practically tradition…so it’s a must have. Plus, they’re a fast and easy way to fill you up before heading out to the Coliseum.

2. Sneak up to the SGM Rooftop at sunset or night

Every USC freshman needs to check out the Seeley G. Mudd rooftop helicopter pad at least once as a freshman. Everyone knows that it’s technically not allowed, but sneaking up to the top of the tallest building on campus is a breathtaking view that you won’t regret. It’ll be beautiful any time of the day, but try going at sunset where you can see the sky turn shades of pink, orange, and yellow. It’s even better at night because you can see the city lights of DTLA. It’s also a great place to chill with your friends after a stressful day of classes as no one is usually up there.

3. Have a photo shoot at the Exposition Park Rose Garden

I don’t think many universities can say that they have a giant rose garden and glorious fountain right across from their school. Thank goodness USC has one. On the way to the Coliseum at Exposition Park, stop by the beautiful rose gardens in front of the California Science Center and Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Especially blooming with flowers during the spring time, it’s the spot to have an aesthetic and floral photo shoot or to have a day picnic with friends.

4. Attend a USC vs. UCLA football game

Are you really a USC freshman if you haven’t attended a football game against our biggest rival? The USC vs. UCLA football game happens once a year, so make sure to schedule it ahead of time. From the tailgates with Bruins to the endless chanting and screaming in the stands, it’s the largest and most intense game of the season. Put together your game day outfit, pack a lot of water, and get ready to fight on because this is a game that you won’t want to miss.

5. Learn the lyrics to the “Fight Song”

The crowd sings the USC “Fight Song” at least 10 times during games. You’ll probably get sick of it because you hear it so often, but at the same time you’ll love it because who doesn’t love USC? You don’t want to be the only one in the stands mumbling the lyrics. Might as well learn our “Fight Song” early on:

“Fight On for ol’ SC
Our men Fight On to victory.
Our Alma Mater dear,
looks up to you
Fight On and win
For ol’ SC
Fight On to victory
Fight On”

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6. Grab a milkshake from Ground Zero

Craving something sweet? Stop by the famous Ground Zero Performance Café that’s located behind the David X. Marks Residential Hall. The café sells plenty of items, ranging from pizza bagels to apple cider. Although the rest of the menu is pretty good, nothing beats their milkshakes. From the ingredients used to the whipped cream on top, GZ milkshakes will become your guilty pleasure. They have different flavors such as Funfetti Cake Shake and Banana Split, so help yourself to a quick and cheap drink!

7. Go to Springfest

I guess our $72,000+ tuition is worth it thanks to the USC Concerts Committee. The Committee hosts Springfest, which is the largest concert of the school year. It’s a great night to chill with friends, check out the different vendors for free merchandise, and to listen to great music. Previous artists who performed at Springfest include Diplo, Jamie XX, Migos, Tyga, 2 Chainz, Portugal. The Man, Capital Cities, and The Internet. The event is free for all USC students, so why not attend?

8. Get the GPA you want!

Although it’s fun to hang out with your new friends and to explore the campus, your number one priority should be your academics as USC freshman. Make sure that you achieve the GPA that you and your family want. Obviously, it’s bad to swamp yourself with studying, so try to find a good balance between your grades and social life. Attend all of your classes, don’t procrastinate and work hard!