USC Undergad Supplemental Essay - Why USC? Major: Communications 2nd choice: International Studies

Hey everyone, I hope someone could help give me some feedback of this short essay. Let me know if you have any suggestions!

USC Annenberg essay

Prompt: Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests at USC. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections. (250 word limit)

Innovations in communications are continuously redefining society's interactions. After enrolling in IB Language and Literature course junior year, I developed an interest for the field of communications. As my perception of the world slowly changes, I shifted from taking social media for granted to cogitating the agenda behind every ad billboard, campaign, and poster.

At USC Annenberg, I believe my fascination for communications could flourish to its full potential. I plan to major in Communications, B.A., in which the degree would prepare me for the competitive field of digital media and marketing. Moreover, USC is also a central hub for job opportunities. As much as I am attracted to vibrant LA culture, I am equally drawn to USC for its extensive internship connections with media companies: Mashable, Collab, and BuzzFeed to name a few. I am also interested in professional researches within USC like the Center for Digital Future, a perfect platform for me to collaborate with others on the study of communication technology and mass media impact on society.

Annenberg could also offer me with study-abroad opportunities to places like Sydney or Shanghai. By examining communications from a different culture and perspective, I could gain new insights on the field. Hence, I also plan to pursue International Studies major and expand my scope of application to a global scale. Finally, with my previous experience as a yearbook editor, I hope to broadcast my passion for journalism and become a part of the phenomenal Annenberg TV News team.

Khang, your response is inappropriate. This prompt is testing your familiarity with the course curriculum, facilities of the university, and your possible study plans during your time as a student at USC. You have not provided pertinent information with regards to this aspect of the prompt. You are only offering a general, nondescript plan regarding your choice of university and career goals. For this prompt. You have to be specific in your presentation by saying things like "I look forward to spending time at XXX lab where I plan to gain knowledge in XXX", or "As a Communications student, I will join the AV club where I will...", and "As a member of the XXX club, I am excited to...", maybe even say "during my off time from classes, I expect to spend time at XXX where I can interact with other students from other majors and develop my XXX..." or any variation therefore of your plans and activities with regards to your pursuit of learning as a USC student. You must change your answer in totality and aim to write at least 200 words in explanation of your plans. If you use up the 250, that is alright, just don't go over the maximum word count.

@Holt
Thank you so much for the feedback! You saved me big time right there. I took some time to digest and look at the prompt again and I did adjust my writing according to your feedback. Below is a revised, hopefully, more specific draft. Let me know if it's better.

At USC Annenberg, I believe my interest in the field of communications could grow to its full potential. I plan to major in Communications, B.A., in which the degree would prepare me for the competitive field of digital media and marketing. Moreover, USC is also a central hub for job opportunities. Along with the vibrant LA culture, USC offers profound internship opportunities with notable media companies-Mashable, Collab, and BuzzFeed to name a few-all in which I will take advantage to apply my knowledge in the classroom to the real world.

I am also interested in professional research within USC such as the Center for Digital Future. Specifically, their ongoing World Internet Project provokes a strong interest for me for I passionately believe that access to the Internet is a civil rights issue. Hence, I plan to collaborate in this extensive research and data collection led by renowned USC faculties and hope to be a contributor to future WIP reports.

During the spring semester, I look forward to studying abroad through one of Annenberg International Programs in Australia. By exploring mass media and communication in Sydney, an environment different from the US, I could gain knowledge to the impacts of communications with a distinct worldview. Lastly, as a Communications student, I will also join USC Annenberg Media's Mobile and Emerging Platforms Team. As a part of the team, I am excited to work with fellow staffs on story adaptations for online readers through new, engaging formats.

Hello,

You will need to dive a little deeper here. There are a few Annenberg school of communications around the nation. Why USC? Talk about several courses that you are eager to take. How will those courses help you achieve your goals. I like that you discussed internships and study abroad as those are major factors in deciding on a particular program as well. Finally, I would encourage you to discuss any research interests that you may have and also any secondary interests that will link to other programs at the university.