Welcome to life at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. Classes, student organizations, faculty, research, hands-on projects, and don't forget our social lives outside of class - its all up for discussion with regular appearances and interviews with special guests. Viterbi Voices: The Podcast is hosted by Paul Ledesma (Executive Director, Undergraduate Admission) and current student Saafiyah Patel (Computer Science, Class of 2025).
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Podcast by USC Viterbi School of Engineering
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Join us for Saafiyah's last podcast as our co-host! Saafiyah and Paul wrap up season 10 of the Viterbi Voices podcast and introduce the next co-host... Hannah! They reflect on Saafiyah's year as co-host, share plans for the end of the semester, and discuss what’s next for the podcast. Signing off, see you all in August! Text us a Question or Commen…
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Nathan Justin’s Path to Finding a Passion in Computer Science
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53:38In this episode, Satwika talks with 5th year PhD student Nathan Justin about his take on software engineering, CS ethics and his journey towards a PhD. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode!By USC Viterbi Undergraduate Admission
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In this episode, Jessica (AME ‘28) sits down with Emma (ASTE ‘28), Norah (ECE ‘28), and Alan (ASTE ‘28) to explore what it's like balancing the rigors of engineering with their passion for music. From acapella rehearsals to band camp, they dive into what inspired them to continue learning and performing music, how they got involved in their current…
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Finding Your Flow in Chemical Engineering
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45:21In this episode, Michaela (CHE ‘27) sits down with Zoe (CHE ‘27) to discuss what chemical engineering is really like, keys to success in a challenging major, balancing academics and fun clubs, and finding joy with friends and self-care at USC. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode!…
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Exploring the Intersectionality between Journalism and Engineering
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46:41In this episode, Keilani (CSBA ‘27) talks to Ellis (CS ‘28) about the underlooked significance of journalism and science communications for STEM-related issues applicable to the real world. They discuss how accessible newsletters and publications can be used to garner traction towards wider issues such as sustainability, computer science, and engin…
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In this episode, Saafiyah sits down with USC students from various majors and years to unpack their college decision journeys. From the factors that guided their choices to what surprised them most after arriving, they reflect on what drew them to USC and how their perspectives have evolved since. Tune in to hear why each of them ultimately chose t…
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In this episode, Sarah talks to 5 BME students (Ishaani '26, Cedric '28, Matthew '26, Hidaya '27, and Dominic '27) about their minors outside of engineering. With minors ranging from Spanish to cinematic arts to human rights, they all have different perspectives to share about how they explore their non-engineering passions at USC and fit minor cou…
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In this special 10th anniversary episode, we reunite with past co-hosts to reflect on our podcast journey. We discuss behind-the-scenes mishaps, what's changed at Viterbi over the past decade, and how the show has evolved. Tune in for a deep dive into the podcast's past and to find out what our former co-hosts are up to now! Text us a Question or C…
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In this episode, Hannah (ME '27) sits down with Naina and Jay from CAIS++ to dive into the world of AI for social good. They discuss how the Center for AI in Society Student Branch is using artificial intelligence to tackle real-world problems, what it's like to be part of an AI-focused student organization, and how aspiring engineers can get invol…
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In this episode, Sophie (CHE ’28) and her engineering friends talk about their experience with CURVE, a research opportunity offered by Viterbi. They discuss their first experiences with research, and what it’s like to work in labs on campus. Whether it’s working with air foils in the Dryden Wind Tunnel, or working with computational chemistry, CUR…
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Kyle’s Journey - Four Epic Years of Involvement & All Things Civil Engineering
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47:43In this episode, Mitchell Kirby (CE ‘26) got the chance to sit down with Kyle Revale, an inspiring senior studying Civil Engineering. Kyle has a focus on Construction Management and will be graduating with his Master’s in Construction Management in December. Kyle is very involved at USC, and they had a great conversation about ways to get engaged i…
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Early Start: Career Development as an Underclassman
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51:57In this episode, Xavier speaks with Christian Corona, a fellow sophomore in civil engineering, talking about how to get an early start on professional opportunities and work on your career as an underclassman. They talk about organizations, career fairs, excursions, and their own experiences. Whether you're also on the internship search or don't ev…
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Hobbies and Passions: Life Outside of Engineering
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38:05In this episode, Gerson and his biomedical engineering student friends talk about their "5-9s" after their "9-5s." From dancing and music to swimming and investing, they discuss their passions and pursuits beyond the classroom. Tune in for a glimpse into their exciting lives outside of engineering. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our n…
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Rocket Propulsion Lab, Space-Related Research & Internships, and USC Sports with Kaleigh Ray (ASTE ’25)
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53:16In this episode, Saafiyah chats with Kaleigh Ray (ASTE ’25) about all things Rocket Propulsion Lab (RPL). They discuss the teams within RPL that Kaleigh has been a part of, how she got involved, and the records the club has broken. Kaleigh also shares insights into her space-related research, her internships, and how she balances it all alongside h…
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Environmental Engineering, Design Team Competitions, and Finding Community at USC with Sejal and Ivan (ENE '26)
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51:22In this episode, Saafiyah sits down with Sejal and Ivan, Environmental Engineering majors at USC. They share their experiences on environmental design competition teams, their involvement in various environmental and identity-based clubs, and how they’ve found community at USC through classes and extracurriculars. Text us a Question or Comment - it…
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Civil Engineering, The Navy, & the USC MBA for Veterans with Marcelle Phené, MBA '25, CE '10
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1:51:40In this episode, Paul interviews USC alumna Marcelle Phené, a civil engineering graduate who has worked with several companies and served in the U.S. Navy. She shares how her engineering background played a role in her military service and career journey. Marcelle also discusses her professional journey since then and her decision to return to USC …
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Ask Us Anything - First Year Admission LIVE Q&A
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1:07:54To kick off the second half of season 10, our Viterbi admission counselors answer your hard-pressed questions about first-year admission to USC. In this episode, they cover a range of common topics, from providing insights into the application process to whether there is a "secret sauce" to stand out. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on ou…
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In this episode, Hansini speaks with three members (Alexandra, Mitch, and Alanna) of Makers, an electronics design team at USC. They talk about their shared experience in the club, experience working on different project teams, and opportunities for leadership and networking. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode!…
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Taylor and her senior peers reflect on their past seven semesters at USC, recognize their growth and accomplishments, and share advice for anyone in their academic journey! Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode!By USC Viterbi Undergraduate Admission
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Navigating College as an International Student
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42:10In this episode, Saafiyah sits down with Joel Etchri, a mechanical engineering student from Macau, as he reflects on his college journey in Los Angeles. Joel opens up about the challenges and rewards of studying far from home, navigating a new culture, and adjusting to life in the U.S. He also offers advice to fellow international students on how t…
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Beyond the Circuit: Unraveling Misconceptions in ECE
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56:07In this episode, Cecilia reflects with Leire, Jessica, and Talise on their experiences so far as Electrical & Computer Engineering (ECE) majors. They discuss what they got wrong and right about their major, and what advice they would give themselves if they started at USC all over again. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode…
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MEDesign: Why does your heart beat for BME?
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1:00:00In this episode, Ishaani sits down with Matthew (BME '26) and Eddie (BME '26), members of MEDesign, USCs premier medical device design club. Join them as they explore how Biomedical Engineering students in MEDesign are turning their passion for innovation into real-world projects, and discover what drives these engineers to push the boundaries of m…
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Life At USC: Balancing Engineering while Maximizing Your College Experience
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1:15:32
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1:15:32In this episode, Karissa speaks with Krishna Srikanth, a fellow Viterbi student, to discuss life at USC while pursuing rigorous majors and minors. They chat about everything related to enjoying life and doing well at USC: social life, clubs, internships, classes, and more! Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode!…
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Women in Engineering: Voices of Viterbi's Club Presidents
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1:23:20
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1:23:20In this episode, Hannah speaks with some of the fabulous women in engineering leading Viterbi Clubs and Organizations. They discuss their time in SWE, CAIS++, ScopeSC, ADT, and Shift along with their experience at Viterbi and beyond! Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode!By USC Viterbi Undergraduate Admission
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Exploring Computer Science Programs at Viterbi
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45:31In this episode, USC Viterbi students Riya, Cody, Aditya, and Agnes share their experiences in various Computer Science programs. They discuss how they chose the right computer science major for them, their classes, and how they balance their coursework with other classes. Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode!…
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Recruitment Rewind: Senior Engineers Speak
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35:31In this episode, we sit down with a senior Mechanical Engineering student and a senior Industrial Engineering student to discuss their experiences with recruiting in their final year of college. They share valuable insights, strategies, and tips on how to navigate the job hunt, prepare for interviews, and stand out to employers in a competitive mar…
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Life after Biomedical Engineering: A Post-Graduate Perspective
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55:30In this episode, Gerson chats with recently graduated friends that studied Biomedical Engineering at USC. They talk about what they have been up to, law school, medical school, industry, consulting, research, and plenty more! Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode!By USC Viterbi Undergraduate Admission
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In this episode, Victoria speaks with Grace Hutapea about their experiences being college students in Los Angeles. They discuss professional opportunities through USC, exploring the LA area and food scene, the perks of living in a big city, and much more! Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode!…
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From USC to the World: The Viterbi Study Abroad Experience
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1:14:39
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1:14:39In this episode, Ava chats with Irith and Keyvette about their study abroad experiences in London, Brighton, and Singapore. They discuss the unique challenges of studying engineering abroad, balancing academics with travel, adapting to new cultures, and how their time overseas has shaped their personal and professional growth. Tune in for tips on m…
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CS + CE: Computer Science and your College Experience
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52:28In this episode, Jake is joined by a fellow student, Alex Forgosh. They discuss their shared experience of balancing a computer science/engineering degree with playing collegiate sports, leading clubs, pursuing hobbies, and keeping up with their social life. Listen in as they discuss strategies that keep them organized, give tips to new students, t…
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From Prison Bars to Mars: Addiction, Incarceration, NASA, and Coffee with Breece Phipps (BS, MS ASTE '22)
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1:37:36
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1:37:36In this episode, Paul speaks with Viterbi alumnus Breece Phipps (BS, MS ASTE '22) about his remarkable journey from addiction and incarceration to becoming a Propulsion System Flight Controller at NASA. Breece opens up about his unconventional path to college, his USC experience, and how he turned his life around. They also explore his entrepreneur…
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*LIVE* at the Move-in Day Parents Reception
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55:49
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55:49In this episode, Paul and Ava conduct live interviews with new USC parents as they help move their first-year students onto campus. Tune in to hear valuable advice from parents who have traveled from near and far, and get their thoughts on becoming part of the Trojan family. We also hear from incoming students sharing their excitement and expectati…
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Voltage, Electrons, & Spacecraft Systems with Shayna Goldberger (ECE '18, MS ASTE '22)
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1:27:18
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1:27:18In this episode, Paul speaks with Viterbi alumna Shayna Goldberger (ECE '18, MS ASTE '22) about her career as a spacecraft systems engineer at Millennium Space Systems. Shayna shares insights into her studies in both electrical and astronautical engineering and provides a glimpse into her current work. They also delve into her unexpected decision t…
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Debunking Viterbi Admission Myths: Inside Scoop with Admission Counselors
1:15:16
1:15:16
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1:15:16In this episode, Saafiyah sits down with Viterbi admission counselors to address common myths and answer the "burning questions" students have about the admissions process. They discuss everything from how to stand out as an applicant to the real impact of legacy status. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to demystify the admissions process a…
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Engineering in Society with Professor Steve Bucher
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1:42:30Viterbi Voices is back with Season 10! In the pilot episode, Paul sits down with Professor Steve Bucher, the director of the Engineering in Society (EiS) Program. Steve developed and led the engineering writing program that evolved into the EiS program. In this episode, Paul and Steve explore the concept of civic responsibility for engineers. They …
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Join us for Maya's last podcast as our co-host! Maya and Paul wrap up season 9 of the Viterbi Voices podcast and introduce the next co-host... Saafiyah! They talk about plans for the future, plans for the podcast, and Taylor Swift (as always!). See you all in August! Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode!…
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How to Dominate College: A Reflection From Soon-to-Be Graduates
1:18:30
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1:18:30In this episode, USC Viterbi seniors Maya (ISE '24), Nick (ASTR '24), Peyton (ME '24), and Victoria (ME '24) reflect on their past 4 years at USC. They discuss what they thought they would do, what they actually did, and how they planned and prepared for college. Planning is second-nature for these students as engineers, but this episode proves tha…
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Mechanical Engineering Senior Design Projects: A Suspension System for Rovers on Mars
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36:28In this episode, Peyton is joined by her senior design team members Misha and Pono. They discuss a novel suspension system they designed for Martian rovers during their mechanical engineering degree capstone course at USC. Listen in as they discuss their journey ideating, designing, building, and testing, well as presenting at the AIAA aerospace co…
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Cybersecurity, Social Media Influencing, Tech. Consulting and Solving Complex Problems with Caitlin Sarian (BS Mech. Engr., MS Engr. Mgmt)
1:47:05
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1:47:05In this episode, Paul interviews Viterbi alum Caitlin about her career and time at USC. Caitlin speaks about moving around in her career through cybersecurity, consulting, and social media influencing. Listen for a great conversation with cybersecurity tips, learning, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the life of Caitlin... also known as Cyberse…
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Black Student Lives in Engineering at USC Viterbi
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55:15
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55:15In this episode, Taylor interviews Carlton (CSBA '27), Cecil (Mech '24, M.S. Aero '25), Eliana (ISE '26), and Rachel Amir (BME '24) about their lives and time at Viterbi. They discuss why they chose USC, involvements , finding community at Viterbi, DEI programs and initiatives, and advice for current and incoming students. Lessons and advice in thi…
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Environmental Remediation, Decarbonization, and the Department of Energy with Bria Jamison (ENE '18, MS Green Technologies, '19)
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1:40:54
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1:40:54In this episode, Paul speaks with Viterbi alumna Bria Jamison (ENE '18, MS Green Technologies, '19) about her career as an environmental consultant, an engineer, and a fellow at the Department of Energy. They discuss the discipline of environmental engineering, the complexities of the field, and current environmental work being done in the governme…
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Student Wellness & Adjusting to New Challenges in College with Lorena Duran, LCSW, Ed.D.
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1:17:42
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1:17:42In this episode, Paul speaks with Lorena Duran (LCSW, Ed.D.) from USC about student wellness at for engineering students in Viterbi. Wellness is a priority at USC to encourage students to do their best work and be their best selves. They discuss specific programs, resources, and strategies to help students adapt to college and thrive at USC. Text u…
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Our Advice to Incoming First-Years: A Senior Perspective
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1:16:23In this episode Celine (BME '24) speaks with her friends Anthony (BME '24), Kara (BME '24), and Matt (BME '24) about life lessons they've learned throughout their four years of college. They give advice to any incoming first-year students about academics, making friends, and learning how to go with the flow. Text us a Question or Comment - it may b…
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Startups, Transferring, and 'The Bachelor' with Anshay Saboo (Computer Science)
1:11:42
1:11:42
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1:11:42In this episode, Saafiyah speaks with Anshay as he reflects on his time at USC. We discuss his experience with transferring, entrepreneurship endeavors, senior year bucket lists, 'The Bachelor,' and more! Text us a Question or Comment - it may be on our next episode!By USC Viterbi Undergraduate Admission
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Parenting Through College Decisions and Beyond
1:30:48
1:30:48
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1:30:48Parents of prospective Viterbi students, this episode is for you! In this episode, current Viterbi students, Maya and Grace, interview their parents to highlight the parent perspective and experience of the college application process, college decisions, and sending their student off to college. The parents share personal stories, lessons learned, …
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Generative AI, Industrial Engineering and Data Science, and Being a Twin at USC with Charlie (ISE '24, M.S. DSCI '24)
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46:27Join us for an episode of twinning in ISE at USC! In this episode, Maya interviews her twin brother, Charlie (ISE '24, M.S. DSCI '24), who shares insights into his academic journey, extracurricular activities, and personal experiences. Charlie explains his data science projects (including a teaching assistant chat bot), his choice to pursue a Maste…
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Friday Afternoon Interviews in The Epstein Family Plaza with Viterbi Students
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43:37In this episode, Maya and Peyton interview numerous Viterbi students hanging out at the Epstein Family Plaza on a Friday afternoon. The series of short interviews explores the students' reasons for choosing USC, the meaning of engineering, favorite courses at USC, favorite memories, and must-visit spots for a visit to Los Angeles. Listen for a glim…
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Rockets, Space, and The Rocket Propulsion Lab
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54:51In this episode, Maya interviews three members of the Rocket Propulsion Lab (RPL), Abbey, Kaleigh, and Meghna, about the organization and their experiences. RPL is a premier rocketry group at USC known for being the first student team to launch a rocket into space. With positions for anyone in any engineering discipline, RPL is a great opportunity …
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In this episode, Lucas speaks with Peyton (ME '24, M.S. ME '24) and Mitch (CE '26) about their experiences with housing at USC. They review different dorms, what they did each year, and different tips and advice for choosing where to live. This is a great episode for prospective and current students deciding where to live at USC. Text us a Question…
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