Details

• United States of America
• BaWiSo-23
• Undergraduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 4 months

1. Preparation

Preparation Tips for the Application Process at WU: The selection interview was conducted via Microsoft Teams in English, together with another applicant. It lasted around 15 to 20 minutes and was fairly conversational. I was asked to briefly explain my CV in about one minute, describe my specializations at WU, and outline the general direction I wanted to take with my courses abroad. There was no need to mention specific course numbers, just a rough idea of my academic interests. Be prepared to explain what makes WU a great university and how your background aligns with a semester at USC. General Tips for Preparing Your Semester Abroad: Get a proper credit card before you leave. A debit card won't be enough in the US since you need a real credit card to rent a car and often for hotel reservations as well. I'd also recommend obtaining an international driver's license. Just head to the ÖAMTC with a passport photo and they'll issue it on the spot.

2. Accommodation

I stayed at The Lorenzo, an off campus student housing complex that is very popular among exchange students. The facilities are great and relatively affordable. It has multiple pools, a gym, a volleyball court, and several other amenities included. Security guards are always walking around the premises, so there's no need to worry about safety. That said, the management is a nightmare. They rarely respond to emails and you can't reach them by phone, so the entire process of signing your lease takes forever. My advice is to start reaching out as early as possible and be persistent. Also, even if the website doesn't show options for a single semester, don't let that discourage you. Just ask them directly and you can rent for six months only.

3. Academic life at host university

The campus at USC is absolutely stunning and massive. There are multiple libraries available, with Doheny being the most iconic one. The sports infrastructure is excellent, featuring two gyms, tennis courts, swimming pools, basketball courts, and much more. Academically, the courses were very interesting and somewhat easier compared to WU. Classes are small and highly interactive, with a strong emphasis on group work, in class participation, and discussions. Attendance is usually mandatory. The professors are approachable and genuinely engaged. They take time to connect with students and are always willing to help, which makes sense given the high tuition fees at this private university. Course registration happens online before the semester starts. You submit your preferences to USC's international office and they try to accommodate your choices. There's also an add and drop period during the first few weeks where I was able to add many fun courses that I was not able to get in the beginning. Keep in mind that you need at least 8 credits at Marshall School of Business, but the remaining credits can be taken from other schools and departments. I'd highly recommend taking some fun sports courses on the side. Options like sailing, surfing, golf, or beach volleyball are available and a great way to enjoy the California lifestyle while earning easy credits for your free electives.

5. Every day life in the host country

Public transport in Los Angeles has a bad reputation, but honestly, during the day it's much better than everyone says. Especially if you're not alone, you really don't need to worry. USC provides a free TAP card for unlimited metro access. That said, for exploring further areas, Uber or Lyft are more practical. USC also offers free Lyft rides within a certain radius around campus after 7pm, which is very convenient at night. As for safety, the area directly around USC and The Lorenzo is not the nicest, but I never felt unsafe. Just be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone late at night, and use the free Lyft pass when needed. Security guards are present both on campus and at The Lorenzo. Socially, there is always something going on. USC has a huge variety of student clubs and organizations, and the sports culture is incredible. Football games are major events and a must for the full college experience. Fraternity parties and tailgates before games are also part of the social scene.

6. Testimonial

My semester at USC was an unforgettable experience. The combination of interesting courses, the incredible campus life, and the California lifestyle made it truly special. I loved experiencing real American college culture with football games and tailgates. Since I stayed a bit longer after my exams, I also had the chance to explore not just California but pretty much all of the USA. One of the best parts was meeting so many other exchange students from around the world, and I got to know so many ambitious and like minded people along the way. If you're considering USC, just do it. It will be one of the best decisions you'll make during your studies.