USC is the best school in the universe because you get so much for your money. First, there's the fact that it's located in beautiful, sunny Southern California. Who doesn't want to go to a school where it's 70 degrees year-around? Then there's the fact that it's located close to everything you want to be close to as a young adult. There's the numerous glistening beaches, Hollywood, dozens of world-class theatres, Disneyland, the list goes on and on.
As far as the school itself, USC is the perfect balance of academic and social opportunities. That probably has something to do with the fact that the campus--when compared to other big name schools--is relatively small. Only a square mile essentially, the campus size allows for a homey, intimate feel. Every day on campus, I see at least one person I know in passing, which is something that you don't get at bigger schools. USC only has about 30,000 students (including grad students), so it's very likely that you run into friends all the time! And that's something that's important in feeling that you belong at a school. Since my time here began nearly 4 years ago, I have never once questioned my place at USC. Socially, USC has countless clubs to get involved in, as well as an active Greek Community, which about 1/3 of the student body participates in. There's also USC's fabled sports teams, which are a HUGE deal at this school. USC is a football school, and even if you aren't into football coming in, you will certainly be converted come Game Day! The experience of being on campus during a USC football game is indescribable, and is something that you definitely don't want to miss!
When I tell people that I go to USC, they are automatically impressed because they know what it takes to get into SC, and they know the kind of education that I am getting. This is something that definitely comes in handy when it comes time to get a job!
While USC is a dream school for countless reasons, it should be noted that USC is not in a quintessential college town. So, if that is something you want, USC may not be the school for you. It's located in the heart of LA, which means it is in an urban environment. Obviously, this comes with its unique set of challenges. The campus is so beautiful though that it is easy to forget where you are. That is, until you hear sirens and helicopters every day, and then you remember. Bu some of the best colleges in the nation--Duke, North Carolina, Yale, and USC of course--are in...less than ideal locations. It's just something that you learn to adapt to in going to school here, but it is definitely safe nonetheless. The thing that living in an urban community allows one to do is experience what real life is beyond the bubble of comfort that most USC kids grow up in. Plus, I always say that if celebs and CEOs of Fortune-500 companies have no problems sending their kids here, than I shouldn't worry about going here either!
Going to USC is worth living in a sketchy environment for 4 years. trust me.