Are you curious about what a college-level class experience will be like? Imagine learning about cutting-edge research from USC faculty before the first week of school. Perhaps you want to discuss current political and social issues, explore creative works of art, or understand the cultural diversity of Los Angeles. These are just a few examples of the micro-seminars available to you as part of the USC Welcome Experience.

Micro-seminars are mini-workshops or small-group sessions that highlight a specialized topic in a short time. Structured as two 90-minute sessions, these seminars are designed to give you the chance to meet one faculty member and other first-year students and engage in an academic environment before classes begin. Attendance for most seminars is limited to just 20 students to ensure thoughtful discussion and the opportunity to meet peers with similar interests.

Faculty from across all schools and disciplines at USC are leading a micro-seminar. While you may attend a seminar that jump-starts your fields of study, you are not required to sign up for a seminar based on your major. This is learning for the sake of learning, so there is no required homework or grading. Some faculty may suggest short readings in advance to add to your understanding of the topic. 

MICRO-SEMINARS ARE INTENDED FOR INCOMING FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS

Micro-Seminars have two parts. You select one topic that is presented over two days. You must attend both parts. 

• Part 1: Thursday, August 17, 2023 from 3:00 – 4:30 pm (PST)
• Part 2: Friday, August 18, 2023 from 10:00 – 11:30 am (PST)
  • Part 2 is a continuation of Part 1 – same professor, topic, and peers.