In this article, we will discuss some of our successful USC Viterbi Essay examples for the 2022-23 application season.
As you may already be aware, USC is not an easy school to get accepted into. This is especially true for USC Viterbi, which boasts an acceptance rate lower than 8%.
Ouch.
Thus, it’s imperative that your USC Viterbi essays are not just strong. They need to be stronger than what the rest of the application pool wrote.
And, in all transparency, during the free consultations we provide, student rough drafts look better every year.
Fortunately, we’ll be covering a few successful USC Viterbi essays that worked below that you can look at and gain inspiration from. We’ll also cover what made them so strong. You can borrow those elements and ideas for your own essays.
And, if you’re looking to get help with your USC Viterbi essays, we highly recommend scheduling a free consultation with us. We can provide you with expert feedback and advice on how to write the strongest Viterbi essays that will beat out the rest of the competition.
With that said, let’s get right to the examples.
Table of Contents
USC Viterbi Essay Examples.
USC Common App Question.
The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience? (650 words)
Common App Essay Prompt 2
“As a dancer, I faced challenges every day. Dance is a particularly hard sport and art form. A dancer must look good while executing extremely hard moves at the same time. However, the biggest challenge I faced in dance was becoming dance captain.
As dance captain, it was my responsibility to make sure our group dances were proper, in synch, and the dancers paralleled one another. This is called “cleaning a dance”. That was my duty… on paper.
However, I have learned that leadership involves something entirely else. It isn’t as simple as one may think. 95% of leadership is like building the Tower of Babel: everything seems to be going well; until, in a sudden outburst of illogicalness, my teammates stop speaking the same language I do. All communication, poofed out of existence in a cloud of biblical irrationality. Except, my obstacle wasn’t a patriarchal deity getting mad at bricks stacked high.
It was the dance captain title.
In my studio, students are fueled by a fiery flame of ambition and competitiveness. This however leads to many challenging my title and vying for my position. This jealousy is seldom hidden well, if at all. Obviously, it became very difficult to lead a group of peers who were constantly trying to compete with me, and not in a friendly competition kind of way.
Once I became dance captain, I started to be met with numerous eye-rolls and passive-aggressive stares. A dance room is covered with mirrors so I saw everything. It seems small; but, it’s not. In fact, marriage counselors use the eye roll to indicate whether a relationship is salvageable. It’s symbolic of taking someone’s words or ideas and throwing them out the metaphorical window. Not even our teacher could stop it. Despite the commands of the teacher to listen to me, they continued to be disrespectful day after day.
As captain, I had to set an example. This was the most difficult challenge of it all. A test of true leadership. I had to hid my personal feelings from my peers. I couldn’t let them see the anxiety that consumed me when I walked into the dance studio every day. The tears I had cried only moments before had to be wiped clean from my face. I did not want my peers to know that they had that much effect on me. I couldn’t show them that their actions had that much power. Every day it was a challenge to walk back into the studio and get along with them, however, I faced the challenge because that is what a true leader does. More importantly, it would have been easy to let my anger get in the way, resort to a snide comeback, and show my superiority. I could have, I wanted to; and, even so, I wouldn’t have blamed someone for doing so.
Yet, I didn’t.
I decided to take the high road. Then, one by one, I started earning their respect! That’s… how it would go if this were a movie.
However, this is reality, which is often harsher, and less forgiving. In truth, I still see all the eye-rolls, whispers, and gossip. Nonetheless, I know my limitations and can come to terms with them honorably.
I learned that I cannot change people, like those pixie dream girls who help men “find themselves” in cheesy movies. I contribute to my team by accepting what I can do to lead despite having my title threatened at every turn. I lead despite this because even though they may be disrespectful, they’re still my team, no one else’s. It’s what a true captain and leader does. A captain continues to bear it: because they are the captain, they are a leader.”
Successful USC Viterbi Common App Example Essay; Leanne Valladares, 2022-23
Why USC Question.
Describe how you plan to pursue your academic interests and why you want to explore them at USC specifically. Please feel free to address your first- and second-choice major selections. (Approximately 250 words)*
Common App Official Website
“The massive lateral growth computer science can afford businesses gives me hope that one day I may carve out a niche of my own. With computer science, I aspire to provide meaningful value that will change people’s lives for the better.
Specifically, I hope to manifest this aspiration at USC.
USC’s culture of camaraderie and close-knit school spirit is uniquely special to computer science majors with entrepreneurial twists. It’s hard to find that meaningful togetherness that makes entrepreneurship infinitely more enjoyable. Starting a project should be a team effort, demanding collaboration. Thus, USC’s culture is first and foremost vital to the lifeblood of my future endeavors.
In addition, I believe programs such as the Greif Incubator would further spearhead my goals for collaborative efforts in developing a great product that would help people. I planned to use my interest in computer science to create a SaaS product that would streamline study methods for students who struggle with learning conditions such as ADHD and general anxiety. It’s, of course, difficult to code my way to a product alone. So, I would like to collaborate with other coders, psychologists, marketers, and finance experts to make this SaaS program come to fruition.
The opportunity to work together with students from Dornsife and Marshall thrills me. Furthermore, I’m excited for the chance to meet potential cofounders with whom I may share perspectives.”
Successful USC Viterbi Why USC Example Essay; Leanne Valladares, 2022-23
USC Viterbi Contributions Question.
The student body at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering is a diverse group of unique engineers and computer scientists who work together to engineer a better world for all humanity. Describe how your contributions to the USC Viterbi student body may be distinct from others. Please feel free to touch on any part of your background, traits, skills, experiences, challenges, and/or personality in helping us better understand you. (250 words)
Common App Official Website
“In the world of computer science, problem-solving is one thing.
Working with others in collaboration to find a solution is another. And, that “another” can sometimes be both the most critical yet difficult adversity to overcome.
As someone who has both a passion for computer science and dancing, I’ve seen this in action. I’ve seen how difficult collaboration can be –especially suppressing the impulse to shut in and finish one’s work or learn one’s routine in peace and away from the rest of the group.
Facing a group means having to deal with all the socializing and people-izing. I understand.
Nonetheless, it’s the lifeblood of just about every field: not just computer science and dancing.
I’ve learned, as an extrovert who feels more energized when around other people, that gathering others in a group who are all special and diverse in their own way can lead to fantastic results with great outcomes. But, it’s not as if it’s a walk in the park. It takes work.
Strangely enough, it’s this work, this collaboration, toward something greater that truly energizes me. I have the science and math mind needed to relate and empathize with other fellow computer science majors; this along with the ability to work with a diverse group of individuals in dance makes me believe that I would be a great addition to USC’s community.”
Successful USC Viterbi Contributions Example Essay; Leanne Valladares, 2022-23
The National Academy of Engineering (NAE) and their 14 Grand Challenges Question.
The National Academy of Engineering (NAE) and their 14 Grand Challenges go hand-in-hand with our vision to engineer a better world for all humanity. Engineers and computer scientists are challenged to solve these problems in order to improve life on the planet. Learn more about the NAE Grand Challenges at http://engineeringchallenges.org/ and tell us which challenge is most important to you, and why. (250 words)
Common App Official Website
“Modern problems are complexifying and multiplying. Everything from attention issues to crises in social justice and economic stability shakes the foundations of learning for students. In addition, low wages for teachers and an innumerable work quantity puts modern education at a crisis point.
This barrage of problems puts students in a very bad position. Advanced personalized learning is the most important challenge to me because it has the potential for the most mayhem in the future. The education system has lasted through many “close calls.” Everything from bullying, dropping test scores, cheating, favoritism, abuse, and a plethora of other issues plague our education system, but simply fester.
Now, as we start to realize the width of the spectrum at which students may be neurodivergent or different in learning style, we have much to catch up with in terms of accommodating said learning styles.
Not developing the technologies and algorithms needed to accommodate for unique learning styles and maximize student efficiency would ultimately stagger progress in education more than it already needs. Coupling this with the teacher crisis, significant dips in mental health, and a whole host of other problems, it’s safe to say this may be the final straw that breaks the camel’s back for good.
Rome wasn’t built in a day. But, it’s been a hot minute since the education system has been “fixed.” So, it needs to start with personalized learning. The next generation depends on it. Our future depends on it.”
Successful USC Viterbi National Academy of Engineering (NAE) 14 Grand Challenges Example Essay; Leanne Valladares, 2022-23
USC Short Answer Questions.
- Describe yourself in three words.
- Never
- Stressed
- Ughhh
- What is your favorite snack?*
- 1:00 AM ice cream; ice cream isn’t the same without the late-night academic grind
- Best movie of all time:*
- The Family Man; the simple things in life are what bring you the most happiness
- Dream job:*
- Create a disguised app where victims of domestic violence can signal for help
- If your life had a theme song, what would it be?*
- Count On Me by Bruno Mars
- Dream trip:*
- Greeting elephants and relaxing in the remote mountain ranges of Chiang Rai, Thailand
- What TV show will you binge watch next? *
- The Queen’s Gambit: “Stop thinking about what might have happened in the past.”
- Which well-known person or fictional character would be your ideal roommate?*
- Ms. Frizzle from The Magic School Bus; she is comedic, optimistic, supportive, and intelligent
- Favorite book:*
- The Hate U Give; the novel teaches your voice can make a difference, even when young
- If you could teach a class on any topic, what would it be?*
- Navigating the Covert Narcissist: How to Spot and Deal with Them In Everyday Life
What Made These Essays Strong?
The Importance of Collaboration.
One of the most interesting observations we’ve made about our previously admitted USC students —not just Viterbi ones— is how often the theme of collaboration occurred in the essays.
In the Common App prompt 2 question and the USC contributions question, the theme of collaboration occurs often.
The first covers the importance of collaborating with those we may disagree with. The second covers the importance of collaboration in a field like Computer Science, where extroverted socializing and group work are often undermined.
The nature of USC Viterbi —and realistically any Engineering school for that matter— is that social communication and collaboration are seldom given the love that it deserves. This is a major issue for universities all across the board, especially since the fundamental element of groundbreaking innovation and fantastic ventures in tech come from collaboration with great teams.
One brain is strong. Two is stronger. Many are what lead to true success.
And, it’s this element that admissions officers are truly aware of; and, especially for Viterbi, they’ll be keeping an eye out for.
Diversity.
It’s no secret that the world of engineering, and the tech industry as a whole, is going through major disruptions in geneder roles.
On one hand, the field of tech and engineering has always been male-centric. Yet, now, more women are applying for STEM fields. Though engineering is still clawing toward gender diversity at a glacial pace, universities are doing everything they can to close the gender gap to keep classes 50/50.
And, USC is no different.
But, one thing to note is that diversity exists outside of gender alone. It’s not a vacuum; and, there are more ways to demonstrate diversity and its strengths than just whether you’re a man or a woman.
In your USC Viterbi essays, it’s especially crucial to show what ways you are diverse as a student outside of gender.
Perhaps one of the best examples of this unique approach to diversity is the final USC Viterbi essay example on the NAE.
Our client wrote in this essay how they can contribute to the world in more ways than just engineering. In fact, they are able to think outside the box and propose that engineering is a great way of adapting to other problems such as a falling education system that needs to be revamped.
One great way of demonstrating diversity to the admissions officers at Viterbi is through your creativity and ingenuity in using engineering as a path toward diverse solutions. How does an engineering perspective help those in the liberal arts? Or, how about the world of finance and economics? Is there a way you view engineering that is different from the way others see it?
By having a unique approach to your field, you’ll stand out from the rest of the competition and still earn diversity points without relying on gender.
The Power of Imagery.
Imagery is strong.
And, in the college admissions process, it’ll be one of the strongest assets you have in your USC essays.
Through these USC Viterbi essay examples, we can see imagery peppered about. And, they are a strong way of demonstrating to admissions officers not just your writing prowess but your communication skills too.
But, perhaps the most valuable part of imagery is the ability to communicate very complex ideas that admissions officers otherwise would be unable to comprehend.
This is especially true through the first USC Viterbi example essay we provided. In that, our client writes…
“It isn’t as simple as one may think. 95% of leadership is like building the Tower of Babel: everything seems to be going well; until, in a sudden outburst of illogicalness, my teammates stop speaking the same language I do. All communication, poofed out of existence in a cloud of biblical irrationality. Except, my obstacle wasn’t a patriarchal deity getting mad at bricks stacked high.
It was the dance captain title.
In my studio, students are fueled by a fiery flame of ambition and competitiveness. This however leads to many challenging my title and vying for my position. This jealousy is seldom hidden well, if at all. Obviously, it became very difficult to lead a group of peers who were constantly trying to compete with me, and not in a friendly competition kind of way.“
Except From Example Common App Prompt 2 Essay
What makes this excerpt so strong is how our client was able to navigate the difficulty of problematic colleagues without getting emotional or painting them in too negative a light. Instead of throwing them under the bus, our client demonstrated that she could still see the positive in them through their “firey flame of ambition” whilst demonstrating the negative side of it.
In addition, they also depict beautifully just how chaotic the mayhem that ensues from this competitiveness can be through biblical imagery and metaphor.
Contributions to Community… Really.
Okay, we know that everyone’s heard this before. But, there’s a significant reason we’re pointing this out.
USC values contributions to the community. But, there are two important factors to consider.
- They need to know they can trust you.
- Your contribution does not have to be monumental or profound.
Firstly, knowing whether an admissions officer can trust your words should be your main priority.
USC admissions officers are peppered with countless stories about how students care about the planet, care about the homeless, are fighting inequality, and a large number of other things that beautify their resume. However, what many of these students don’t know is that admissions officers often try to screen their applicants to determine whether they’re doing it truly for a just cause or whether they’re trying to game the system.
In our client’s case, they were able to show they truly did care about their dance team because they did not try to boisterously brag about how great of a leader they were. Instead, they opened up the chance to show vulnerability and humble themselves by showing they still had much to learn and improve on.
It is this honesty that makes the admissions office more likely to believe the work they do is legitimately out of pure passion and not a way to game the admissions process.
Lastly, it’s important to note that your passion project or contribution to your community does not need to be greatly profound or massive in scale. Can it help if it is? Sure. Will the admissions office look down on you for a small-scale contribution to your community? No.
What matters, in the end, is the character you demonstrate through your contribution to the community; as it is that character that the admissions officers are trying to screen for to determine your fit into the USC Viterbi community.
If you have any other questions about our USC Viterbi example essays or simply want to have help writing or editing your Viterbi essays, feel free to contact us for a free consultation. Our college admissions experts and essay advisors have helped countless students get accepted into some of the most prestigious universities including NYU, UPenn, Duke, Brown, UCB, USC, UCLA, and more.
