First-Year Corner.

First-Year Resources

Course Registration Resources

As a first-year student, course registration can feel intimidating, but with these helpful handouts, you can register for next semester with ease! Learn how to navigate the Web Registration portal, watch the Pre-Registration Info Session, and find courses that satisfy more than one GE requirement at once.

First Year Student Resources

Make the most of your first year at USC with these handouts, including the Dornsife First-Year Advising Guide, the Dornsife First-Year Checklist, Five Tips for a Successful First Year, and Tips for Making Friends. Know what to expect from your first year, prepare for upcoming advising and registration, and set yourself up for success!

Advising Appointment Resources

Everything you need to know about academic advising, in handout form! Learn how to schedule an advising appointment with your first-year advisor using AdviseUSC, follow a helpful checklist to make sure you’re prepared for your appointment, and review our helpful handout “What to Expect at Your First Advising Appointment.”

Academic Success Resources

At USC, your academic journey is what you make of it, from the connections you foster with faculty to the endless opportunities for interdisciplinary studies. With the “How to Talk With Your Professors” handout, we’ve compiled some helpful tips to help you succeed. Want to add a second major or minor? Check out the “Adding Majors and Minors” handout for an overview of the process. Looking for a quiet study space? Look at the “Quiet Study Spaces at USC” for some inspiration.

First-Year Advisor Shoutout

Have a positive experience in First-Year Advising? Did you enjoy exploring a topic or finding the support you needed?

Send your First-Year Advisor a shoutout by sharing your feedback. We would love to hear from you!

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FYA Events

Dornsife FYA Events offers a series of programs specifically for Dornsife freshmen to supplement the academic advising experience. FYA Events are designed to support first-year’s individual and diverse needs; empower students to explore academic, personal, and career goals; connect students with campus resources and each other; and prepare students to thrive at USC from their first year through graduate and beyond.

For information about out upcoming events, please visit the Dornsife First-Year Experience group page on EngageSC. Note: Only eligible group members will be able to see this information. If you have any questions, you can contact fya@dornsife.usc.edu

Student Words of Wisdom

I was super nervous and didn’t quite know what to expect academically when I first started at USC. As a pre-med student, I wasn’t sure which classes I should take or how I was going to balance schoolwork, clubs, and my social life. My First-Year Advisor helped me map out a course plan that aligned with my goals and even recommended some popular clubs to join on campus based on my interests. My first year advising experience gave me the confidence to advocate for myself both in and outside of the classroom and not be afraid to reach out for help or support when needed. It never hurts to ask

Maya T. Health and Human Sciences BA, Class of 2026

Coming into my freshman year, I felt overwhelmed by the wide range of majors, minors, and resources USC had to offer. I wasn’t sure if my interests aligned with the program, I was currently in. Thankfully, my first-year academic advisor helped me navigate these resources and explore different options to find the right major for me. After taking rigorous coursework across various departments within Dornsife, I’ve realized that sociology is the right major for me.

Abram G. Sociology BA, Class of 2027

Transitioning away from known family and friends, into my first year of college came with the challenges of trying to fit in mixed with homesickness. Mostly everyone is experiencing these mental obstacles, so you are not alone while experiencing new struggles. Aside from finding new friendships, I was unsure of the academic path that was best suited for me. My first-year advisor helped me navigate through uncertainties, allowing me to find a great community and direction. I came in as a Psychology major and found guidance to uncover my passion for Neuroscience and Pre-Medicine through their genuine care and support

Olivia S. Psychology and Neuroscience BA, Class of 2028

Hear directly from current Dornsife First-Year Advising students on their advising experience, their advice for fellow first-year students, and what they love about their majors in USC Dornsife!

Want to include your own words of wisdom? Submit your voice here!

Hear directly from current Dornsife First-Year Advising students on their advising experience, their advice for fellow first-year students, and what they love about their majors in USC Dornsife!

Want to include your own words of wisdom? Submit your voice here!