USC’s First Semester in D.C. Program Launches with 57 Freshmen

A cohort of 57 freshmen from the University of Southern California (USC) embarked on a unique educational journey this past fall as part of the inaugural First Semester in D.C. program. This initiative allows students from various majors to begin their college experience in the nation’s capital, offering them a distinct perspective on their studies.

Lielle Katz, a participant majoring in international relations and global business, shared her enthusiasm: “Studying in Washington, D.C., has honestly been the best way to start college. Touring Capitol Hill, meeting professionals in policy, and having class discussions that tie directly into what I see around me every day has made this ‘nontraditional’ first semester feel incredibly meaningful.” The program, which launched in August, includes students from eight USC schools, covering nearly 30 disciplines, from political science to aerospace engineering.

Engaging Learning Experience in the Capital

The First Semester in D.C. program aims to enrich students’ academic journeys by providing hands-on experiences. Tan Tandogan, an aerospace engineering major, noted, “The program allowed me to gain insight into topics that interested me outside of engineering, which I never would have looked into before.” By completing general education requirements during this semester, students can create a more flexible schedule for their subsequent years at the Los Angeles campus.

Participants benefit from small class sizes and interactive discussions, supported by dedicated faculty mentors and Capital Campus staff. The curriculum focuses on general education, emphasizing history, writing, and leadership. Professors leverage Washington’s rich resources, enhancing learning through site visits to the U.S. Capitol, the Library of Congress, and various embassies and museums.

Chase Williams, studying business administration, praised the supportive environment created by the faculty and staff, saying, “They were always available to us, willing to answer any questions, and had our best interest at heart.” This positive atmosphere enables students to express their opinions freely and engage deeply with the material.

Building Community and Expanding Opportunities

The program has seen significant interest, reflecting its importance in developing well-rounded, globally minded citizens. According to Elyse Levine, Executive Director of USC Capital Campus, “Students were immediately immersed in the inner workings of our nation from their first semester in college.” She emphasized how this experience enables students to witness firsthand how policies and politics in D.C. influence their future careers, regardless of their major.

Throughout the semester, students participated in various activities, including alumni dinners and scavenger hunts. They also formed interest groups such as the Trojan Diplomatic Corps for those focused on international relations and foreign policy, and the USC D.C. Filmmakers group for movie enthusiasts.

Living in dedicated USC housing in Washington, D.C., students have immediate access to USC financial aid, including exclusive scholarships. One of the recipients, Giovanni Huang, who received the Epstein Family D.C. Student Experience Scholarship, expressed his gratitude: “The opportunity to study in Washington, D.C., for my first semester was a once-in-a-lifetime experience I knew I had to take. The impact was felt both financially and emotionally; it was a moment that I will never forget.”

As the First Semester in D.C. program continues to grow, USC plans to introduce additional academic opportunities in the coming spring and summer. This innovative approach to education not only enhances students’ college experiences but also prepares them for the complexities of their future careers.