You have some very sound reasons for the decision. And there’s a simple answer: don’t tell people. If you think you would be happier transferring to USC after a year at a community college, do it. I live in Berkeley and think that Cal is a great school (D is in grad school there now), but it’s not for everyone. Neither is Harvard. D turned down Harvard in favor of Dartmouth for much the same vibe. Conventional wisdom ain’t always wisdom. Best of luck in your decision.