As a minority student and first-generation college student at USC, you may face unique

challenges and obstacles as you navigate college life. The target audience may include minorities

in the realm of LGBTQ+ students, first-generation college students, transfer students, freshmen,

seniors in high school, and students from low-income backgrounds. To help you succeed, here

are some tips and strategies for surviving and thriving at USC:

1. Seek out resources: USC offers a variety of resources and support services for minority

students, including the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (OMSA), the Multicultural

Outreach Student Team (MOST) program, and the GLD program.

2. However, it's important to remember that you are not alone and that there are resources

available to help you navigate through your college experience successfully, such as

Sexual Assault Violence Intervention, for survivors, bystanders, and adocates to help

respond and prevent related acts.

3. Get involved: Joining student organizations and clubs is a great way to meet new people,

develop leadership skills, and find a sense of community on campus. USC has over 500

student organizations to choose from, including many that focus on diversity and social

justice. including cultural, religious, and advocacy groups, that you can explore.

4. Remember that you belong here, and your contributions are valuable to the university

community.

5. Educate yourself and others: Take advantage of opportunities to learn about different

cultures and perspectives on campus, such as attending cultural events or taking courses

on diversity and inclusion.

6. Speak up: If you experience discrimination, bias, or microaggressions on campus, don't

stay silent. Speak up and report these incidents to the appropriate authorities Title 9 and
 the Diversity and Inclusion office. USC has a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination and

harassment, and the university takes these issues seriously.

7. Be an advocate: As a minority student, you have a unique perspective on issues of

diversity and inclusion. Use your voice to advocate for change on campus and in your

community. Join student organizations, attend protests and rallies, and participate in

dialogues about social justice and equity.

8. Build a Support Network: Finding your community through student organizations for

minorities such as Pre-law National Black Law Student Association, The National

Association of Black Journalist, Black and Abroad Gamecocks, Collegiate Curls, Alpha

Phi Omega, Cuts and Conversations, OMSA Peer Educator, Multicultural Assistance

Peer Program, Student Christian Fellowship, YLC Down To Change, See The Difference,

Global Studies Association, Buddies Beyond Borders, National Pan-Hellenic Council,

Balance Beauty, NAtional Association of Black Accountants, Black Graduate Student

Association, Black Capstone Caucus, Black Business Student Association, Black

Association for Psychology Students, Black Social Work Student Association, The

Alliance of Latinx and Black Graduate Students, Garnet and Black Magazine, Black

Honors Caucus, Freedom Riders, Association of Transfer Students, Queer Connections,

Black Male Initiatives, National Society of Black Engineers, Multicultural Greek

Council, Black Space, Student Government Inclusion & Equity, Trans Student Alliance,

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Carolina Climb, Black

Medical Student Association, Brothers of Nubian Descent, Individual Respecting

Identities and Sexualities, The Association of African American Students, Latino Student

Association, Asian Pacific American Student Association, and many others. These
 groups can help distribute the guide to their members and promote it through their social

media channels and events with weekly newsletters. This survival guide will help

students find their community sooner and be added to the Black USC group me group

chat on GroupMe.

9. Promoting AFAM Classes: These courses cover a variety of topics related to African

American history, culture, and experiences, and can provide valuable insights into issues

of race and social justice. By promoting AFAM classes, we can encourage more students

to engage with these important topics and deepen their understanding of diversity and

social advocacy. It helps to challenge dominant narratives, dismantle stereotypes, and

highlight the resilience and achievements of African Americans. Sign up for a class and

protect our resources. Students can also participate in peaceful protests, sign petitions,

and collaborate with faculty, staff, and other students to amplify voices and protect the

right to a comprehensive education that includes the critical examination of African

American history, culture, and social justice issues.

10. Navigate Campus Life: Navigating campus life can be overwhelming, but there are

resources available to help you. Familiarize yourself with campus resources such as the

USC map, shuttle services, dining options, and campus safety resources. Take advantage

of campus events and activities to get involved and meet new people.

11. Connect with faculty and staff: Building relationships with professors and staff members

can provide you with guidance and advice that can help you succeed academically and

professionally. Attend office hours, ask for advice, and seek out opportunities to work

with faculty members who share your interests and passions. In addition to promoting the

survival guide, USC can also improve the experiences of minority students by increasing
 the representation of diverse faculty and staff on campus. This can be done by actively

recruiting and hiring qualified individuals from underrepresented groups, as well as

providing training and resources for current faculty and staff to better understand and

support diverse student populations.

12. Take Care of Your Mental and Physical Health: College can be stressful, so it is important

to prioritize your mental and physical health. Utilize USC's counseling services and other

mental health resources as needed. Practice self-care techniques such as exercise,

meditation, and relaxation to help manage stress and maintain balance.

13. Stay engaged: Attend events such as HHW and activities on campus to meet new people

and learn more about the university. Join clubs and organizations that align with your

interests and values.