University of Southern California (USC)

University of Southern California (USC) Supplemental Essay Outlines

Here is our suggested essay outlines for every prompt.

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Essay outlines

Every USC prompt, outlined

Long Essays

Academic Interests

250 words

Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections.

Paragraph 1: The Opening Story

  • Detailed description: Open directly in the middle of the action with a specific sensory detail or moment in time that triggered your academic curiosity.
  • Transition smoothly from this personal story to your intended academic path at USC.
  • Avoid starting with generic statements like claiming you have always loved a subject since childhood and avoid broad philosophical introductions.

Paragraph 2: First Choice Major Academics

  • Detailed description: Detail how you will pursue your first choice major by identifying one or two highly specific upper level courses.
  • Explain how your past experiences prepare you for these classes and how you will actively participate.
  • Avoid mentioning generic introductory classes or using empty praise like world class faculty.

Paragraph 3: Second Choice Major Connections

Paragraph 4: Extracurriculars and Campus Life

Paragraph 5: Conclusion and Future Goals