Student Blog: Springing Into Spring Semester

Hey! My name is Marissa, and I'm unbelievably thrilled to be a student blogger this semester! I'm originally from Los Gatos, California and am currently a freshman at University of Southern California, where I study Public Relations. Theatre has always been one of my biggest passions, and I'm hoping to go into PR for the entertainment industry!

After almost a month off of school, I'm so excited to be back on campus. As much as I loved being home and seeing my family, I missed my college friends, the stunning Los Angeles sunsets, and-ok, I'll admit it-a small part of me even missed the dorms and the dining hall.

Of course, with a new semester comes a whole new schedule. It's no secret that I'm a big fan of routine and order. I never go anywhere without my planner. That said, figuring out how to navigate a completely different schedule of classes, club meetings, going to the gym, and seeing my friends has definitely been an adjustment. I think I've (almost) got it down by now, though. I also somehow managed to make this my second semester in a row with no classes on Fridays, so I guess can't really complain.

Scheduling aside, this semester has already been so much fun and is flying by so much faster than the last. I can't believe it's already ⅓ done! I'm really enjoying the classes I'm taking right now. A few are for general education requirements, like Spanish and a writing class all freshmen have to take, but I'm still enjoying them. I'm also taking a class called Forms of Folklore (and before you ask, no, it's unfortunately not about Taylor Swift) and an introduction to Public Relations class. My favorite, however, is Jazz Dance. I'm not a theatre major, but I grew up dancing and doing musical theatre. I really missed it last semester, so I decided to sign up for a dance class, which has been one of the best decisions I've made since coming to college. Starting off every Monday and Wednesday with an hour and a half of dance has honestly been so incredible. If your school lets you take classes in subjects you love outside of your major, I really recommend it. It's such a great way to meet new people and reconnect with your passions. I'm super lucky to go to a school that not only lets me do this, but has a great arts program. I'll definitely be taking more dance and theatre classes in future semesters!

There's something so special about the first few weeks of a new semester. After taking a long break post-finals, everyone is re-energized and ready to finish the second half of the school year strong, giving campus such a great energy. Luckily, the weather's also been fantastic, meaning my friends and I have been able to get out and go explore. My personal favorite was our day trip to the Getty Villa in Malibu, which I would highly recommend checking out if you're in Los Angeles!

All in all, this semester is off to a great start. Fingers crossed the remainder is the same!