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LIVING IN LA AND AT USC
Bridging East and West
As the city’s largest private employer, USC remains pivotal to the region’s future, just as, historically, our alumni and academic programs helped shape Los Angeles’ growth and development into the leader it is today. And it is precisely because Los Angeles is now the world’s gateway between the East and West that USC is uniquely positioned to cultivate a global presence and driving force in innovation for the benefit of society.
- USC is the largest private employer in Los Angeles.
- Los Angeles County is the most populous in the United States and Los Angeles is the nation’s second-largest city, with a greater metropolitan-area population of 13 million.
- One of the most diverse counties in the country, Los Angeles’ population includes more than 3 million non-native residents, representing more than 140 countries, 224 languages, and 600 religious groups.
- More artists, writers, filmmakers, actors, dancers, and musicians live and work in Los Angeles than in any other city at any time in the history of civilization.
- LA’s subtropical climate boasts 292 days of sunshine per year.
- The region features 76 miles of coastline, bordered by four mountain ranges and crisscrossed by thousands of miles of nature trails.
Accommodations
All housing options are carefully selected by USC International Academy staff who are committed to supporting students throughout their living experience. To learn more details about accommodations click here.
There are many dining choices available to students on campus and in the surrounding area. From California cuisine to culinary favorites from around the world, there are plenty of restaurants on-campus and off-campus for you to choose from.
USC International Academy students can choose to purchase a meal plan while at USC. The “Apartment Meal Plan” is already included for students living in campus housing in the fall and spring semesters.
Los Angeles enjoys a Subtropical/Mediterranean climate with relatively warm temperatures year-round. With 266 days of sunshine a year, Los Angeles’ beautiful weather will be the perfect backdrop to your city life and academic experience!
- Summer and Fall (May-October): Warm and sunny, with average highs around 80F/26oC and cooler temperatures in the evening (62F/16oC).
- Winter and Spring (November-March): Cool temperatures, minimal rain. Temperatures range between 65F/18°C and 40F/4°C.
Among the services provided to USC International Academy students to help facilitate a smooth transition to life in Los Angeles and at USC include:
- Health insurance
- Airport transportation
- Orientation program
- Official USC identification card and email setup
- Access to state-of-the-art campus facilities: medical, banking, recreational, dining, computing, and libraries
- Discounted rates for public transportation and cultural activities
The university offers free transportation options for the USC community, including tram and bus services, Campus Cruisers, and more. Public transportation is also easily accessible from USC. USC International Academy students receive a discount for Metro Bus/Rail Monthly Passes. Please visit the USC Transportation Office to learn more details.
USC is committed to protecting students and educating them about how to protect themselves in Los Angeles’ urban environment.
- We have one of the nation’s largest campus security offices.
- USC officers patrol the community areas surrounding the campus and work closely with the Los Angeles Police Department.
- The USC Department of Public Safety works with departments across the university to provide the best possible services for students, faculty, staff and campus guests.
- The USC Department of Public Safety has a dedicated page on Safety Tips.
- Students can download the Emergency Response Guide for Students.